The veteran New Zealand actor, Frank Whitten, best known for his portrayal of Grandpa West in the television series Outrageous Fortune has died.
He was 68.
South Pacific Pictures, which produced Outrageous Fortune, says he died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday morning.
A friend and Outrageous Fortune co-star, Robyn Malcolm, says he had a heart of gold and was enormously respected.
South Pacific Pictures chief executive, John Barnett says the actor will be missed very much.
Frank Whitten's family has asked for privacy and will hold a small private funeral this week.
Mr Whitten also appeared in Gloss, City Life, and Erebus: the Aftermath among many other programmes.
He's acted in the United Kingdom, and in Australia Mr Whitten had roles in All Saints, Murder Call and Police Rescue.
He also worked with major theatre companies in New Zealand and Australia.
Mr Whitten was awarded Best Supporting Actor in 2007 for his role on Outrageous Fortune.
