The Actor That Played Tinky Winky On The Teletubbies Has Passed Away

Simon Shelton, the dude that played your childhood fave Tinky Winky aka the purple Telletubby, has passed away at the age of 52.

Shelton played the purple handbag-carrying Tinky Winky from 1998 to 2001. His death was confirmed by his son Henry. The series’ Twitter account posted their condolences:

Very sad to hear that actor Simon Shelton, who played Tinky Winky in the late 90’s, has sadly passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Big hugs. pic.twitter.com/nBofxSYFLd

— Teletubbies (@TeletubbiesHQ) January 23, 2018

Shelton’s identity as the purple Teletubbie was only revealed in 2008, as part of the children show’s reunion tour in celebration of its tenth anniversary. He told the BBC in 2008:

“I didn’t know it would be as big as it was, but I did know as soon as I started working on it that it had something special,”

Actress Emily Atack posted a tribute to Instagram on her “wonderful uncle,” who was “the kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet”.

John Simmit who played Dipsy in the show also tweeted his condolences.

What a week ! RIP Simon Shelton aka Tinky Winky : remembering the many good times. Rest easy pic.twitter.com/4uyJDBoJdO

— John Simmit (@JohnSimmit) January 22, 2018

R.I.P, you legend!