Tinky Winky No More: Teletubbies actor dead at age 52
The iconic children’s show, Tellytubbies, has lost one of the show’s stars. The man behind the costume and performance for Tinky Winky.
Parents, teenagers an even the young children of today will all know the name “Teletubbies”. You know, those funny creatures that have squares on their stomachs, antennas and worship some baby that is actually the sun in the sky? Those characters became iconic to millions of people around the world, now, sadly, it has been revealed that the man behind Tinky Winky has passed on.
Actor Simon Shelton Barnes died on Tuesday just four days after his 52nd birthday. Barnes was married to Emma Robbins and lived in Bedfordshire in the UK. He was a trained ballet dancer and choreographer.
While Tinky Winky is one of the more “famous” Teletubbies, Barnes once reportedly said that being in the Teletubbies was “a bit like the Beatles or Take That [boy band] of television”.
Before his death, Barnes took to Facebook to post about his Christmas celebrations.
“I’m on the fabulous Wirral and had a fantastic Christmas Day lunch with Jude and her extra ordinary Dad, Ken. Hope you’re all Happy and Healthy xxx.”
Barnes’ daughter Lydia also took to Facebook on January 21 to say farewell to her dad.
“I love you so much Dad… always have, always will. The most beautiful man in the world.”
According to The Sun, Paul McCartney’s brother, Mike McGear also paid tribute to the actor.
Barnes’ son, Simon also had a sweet goodbye message for his dad under the costume.
‘“I lost my lovely dad on Wednesday, he was the kindest and most gentle man I knew and I love him more than anything!!!!”
Barnes was the second actor to play Tinky Winky, he replaced Dave Thompson in 1997 after he was criticised for his interpretation of the role.
Tinky Winky was the purple Teletubbie who was often seen carrying a red bag. He is is the largest and oldest of the group of Teletubbies.
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