Ron Lester has died.

Ron Lester

Ron Lester

The 45-year-old actor - who was best known for playing Billy Bob in the 1999 movie 'Varsity Blues', alongside Paul Walker and James Van Der Beek - passed away in hospital in Dallas, Texas on Friday (17.06.16).

He had been in hospital for the past few months due to liver and kidney problems and previously revealed he had also been having heart trouble.

Ron's manager Dave Bradley wrote on Facebook: "Tonight my friends we lost my good friend and actor Ron Lester - He passed at 8:57 pm Dallas TX Time. He was not in any pain and passed away peacefully.

"For the Media - I will release a press statement as soon as I have a chance to mourn my friend.

"Please keep his Fiancee Jennifer Worland in your prayers as she was with him. His friends and family was around him during this difficult time (sic)."

Earlier David had confirmed that Ron's condition was critical and he had been taken off life support.

He wrote: "It is true that he is in critical condition and has been moved to hospice care. He has been removed from the ventilator. At the time of my post, he is breathing on his own, but has been given medicine that takes care of any pain he may be feeling. Ron's Fiancee is by his side as well as close family and friends. I will do my best to answer your questions and to return your phone calls. Thank you for your continued support. I will post an update as soon as there is any status changes (sic)."

Ron - who also starred in TV shows 'Popular' and 'Freaks and Geeks' - had gastric bypass surgery in 2001 after his weight ballooned to over 500 pounds. He lost 350 pounds but admitted work had dried up after his weight loss.

He previously told bodybuilding.com: "As of November 2007 I am back to work and I am rebuilding my career. The difference is that I am no longer the "FUNNY FAT GUY!" I am just like anybody else. I sold my "niche" for my chance to live and even though it's harder to start over, even with a resume like mine, I have earned the right to be able to do so!"

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