Actor Simon Shelton, known for voicing Tinky-Winky in the BBC children’s show “Teletubbies,” died on Jan. 17. Simon Shelton Barnes died just four days before his 52nd birthday last week, with neighbours claiming he had collapsed in the street and died of hypothermia.. His niece, Emily Atack, confirmed the news on Instagram.
“My wonderful uncle Simon Barnes has been taken from us all so suddenly. The kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet. Loved by all who knew him, and will be forever. X,”
The British actor took over the role of the purple Teletubby from 1998 to 2001, after original actor Dave Thompson was fired in 1997. Shelton also played the Dark Knight in the children’s game show “Incredible Games.”
Shelton is survived by his wife and three children.