Legendary British sitcom star Richard O’Sullivan, who entertained television audiences for decades with his easygoing charm and sharp comic timing, has died at the age of 82.

O’Sullivan was best known for starring in the hugely popular 1970s comedy Man About the House, but his long television career made him one of the most recognizable faces on British TV throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

The Royal Variety Charity, which supports people who have worked in the entertainment industry, confirmed his death. A cause of death was not immediately announced.

Giles Cooper, a spokesperson for the charity, remembered O’Sullivan as a television legend whose performances brought laughter into millions of homes.

“Richard O’Sullivan was a master of effortless charm and impeccable comic timing, bringing pure warmth, wit, and unforgettable joy to millions of living rooms as a true giant of British television,” Cooper said.

He added that O’Sullivan would be “sorely missed” by everyone at the Royal Variety Charity.

Along with Man About the House, O’Sullivan appeared in a string of popular television shows, including Robin’s Nest, Doctor at Large, Dick Turpin and Me and My Girl.

His son, James O’Sullivan, also shared an emotional tribute following his father’s death.

“My dad was as funny and charming in real life as he appeared on our TV screens over the years,” James said.

Although much of his father’s acting career took place before he was born, James said he was able to appreciate O’Sullivan’s work through the countless reruns of his hit shows.

“I was fortunate enough to be able to enjoy and witness his incredible talents on the countless re-runs of his shows that made him the respected and loved actor that he was,” he said.

James also thanked the staff at Brinsworth House, the care home where O’Sullivan died, for the “love, kindness, and care” they showed his father.

News of the actor’s death quickly sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and former colleagues.

One devastated fan remembered O’Sullivan as “the greatest actor of his generation,” praising his ability to make both comedy and serious acting appear effortless.

BAFTA-nominated actress Sally Thomsett, who starred alongside O’Sullivan, also shared an emotional message after learning of his death.

“I have just woken up to the most dreadful news,” Thomsett wrote, adding that she considered herself lucky to have wonderful memories of the actor that would stay with her forever.

“He was loved by so many,” she added.

O’Sullivan’s death marks the loss of another familiar television face whose work entertained generations of viewers and continues to live on through reruns of his classic sitcoms.