“Doctor Who” and “Emmerdale” star Richard Franklin dies on Christmas Day at the age of 87

Doctor Who and Emmerdale star Richard Franklin died on Christmas Day at the age of 87, a spokesman for his family confirmed in a statement seen by the PA news agency.

The statement said: “Richard sadly passed away in his sleep after battling a long illness.

“We are deeply saddened by his loss and will remember him fondly for his generosity, creative spirit and fantastic storytelling.

“Even outside the family, he is fondly remembered for his long career in television and theater, with which he thrilled audiences of all ages.

“It brought him great joy and we know his legacy will live on.”

Franklin, who played Captain Mike Yates in the long-running BBC One sci-fi series, now starring Ncuti Gatwa, has “died peacefully in his sleep”, according to a friend of the late actor.

Liam Rudden, who landed his first professional acting job from the stage and screen star, announced the news in a post on the late TV star's social media page on Monday.

On X, formerly Twitter, he wrote: “It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Franklin has asked me to announce the news of his passing earlier today.

“Richard passed away peacefully in his sleep. Details of funeral arrangements will be posted here as soon as they are announced.

“Sleep well, Richard. #RIP – Liam Rudden.”

In a post on his own social media account, he said he was “devastated,” adding: “Farewell to a mentor and friend.”

Katy Manning, who played the role of the Doctor's companion Jo Grant in the series about aliens and time travel, also paid tribute to him.

On X, she said: “Our wonderful, brave Captain Yates #RichardFranklin has gone off on his awfully big adventure. I'm so grateful to have seen him on Friday.”

She added: “My thoughts are with his family.”

Franklin, who became known for his role as businessman Denis Rigg in the British soap opera “Emmerdale,” also appeared in the TV miniseries “Little Women,” the science fiction series “Blake's 7” and the 2016 film “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.”

He graduated from the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada) with a degree in acting in 1965 and subsequently played leading roles in numerous plays.

Franklin also worked as a voice actor and reprised his role in “Doctor Who” for Big Finish Productions, who paid their last respects to the actor after his death.

X said: “Everyone at Big Finish is deeply saddened to learn that Richard Franklin passed away early this morning. Our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. #RIP.”