Grange Hill actor found dead
RIP
Actor Al Matthews has died aged 75. Al, who starred in Grange Hill before carving a career in Hollywood in hit films including Aliens, Fifth Element and Superman III, was found dead in a Spanish retirement home at the weekend.
Local press are reporting that Al, who was from Brooklyn in the US and fought in the Vietnam War, was living in Alicante in Spain at the time of his death and had been living there since he retired from acting in 2005.
The American actor originally played the dad of Benny Green in the hit CBBC show. Tragically, the actor who played young Benny - Terry Sue Patt - was also found dead at his London home in July 2015. It was reported that police found Terry up to a month after he died.
Al also played memorable roles in action films, including cigar-smoking Sgt. Apone in Aliens. Fans have been quick to pay their respects on social media, with one writing, 'RIP Al Matthews, aka Sgt. Apone. A badass dude who lived a really interesting life.'
Another added, 'It's always a bit disheartening when you hear that first bit of bad news of the day isn't it? Just heard that #AlMatthews famous for his role as 'Gunnery Sergeant Apone' in #Aliens has passed away. What a legend, RIP sir 🎬 #GrangeHill #TheFifthElement.'
Medics found Al on his bed but the cause of death is not yet known, although local publications are reporting that he suffered from severe illnesses over the years.
As well as starring in Grange Hill and Aliens, Al also portrayed a fire chief in 1983 flick Superman III and had a part in the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies.