Lewis Collins

Lewis Collins

'The Professionals' star Lewis Collins has died aged 67.

The actor, best known for playing hard man William Bodie in the cult 1970s TV show, passed away in Los Angeles after a five-year battle with cancer.

His agent said: "He died peacefully at his LA home surrounded by his family. Privacy is asked for at this very sad time."

ITV show 'The Professionals', which also starred Martin Shaw, ran for six years and centred around a fictional crime-fighting unit called CI5.

Martin told the BBC: "We spent a very tough four years together in making 'The Professionals', and shared in the production of what has become an icon of British television.

"He will be remembered as part of the childhood of so many people, and mourned by his fans. I send my love and condolences to his family, and the great many who will miss him."

Cheshire-born Lewis is also known for playing SAS captain Peter Skellen in 1982 British thriller 'Who Dares Wins' and memorably auditioned for the role of James Bond. He was last seen on screen in 2002 in 'The Bill'.

Former 'Doctor Who' star Colin Baker has expressed his condolences on Twitter, writing: "Sad to hear that Lewis Collins has died. He was the year below me at drama school. Had style! (sic)"

Collins leaves behind his wife, Michelle - who he married in 1992 - and three sons.


by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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