by Tom hmv London, 02/12/2016 Bio hmv.com Editor. Peanut butter, punk rock and pillows.

Fawlty Towers star Andrew Sachs dies aged 86

Andrew Sachs, best known for his role as waiter Manuel in iconic sitcom Fawlty Towers, has died at the age of 86.

Sachs, who had been suffering from dementia, died on November 23rd and was buried by his family as a private funeral yesterday (Decemeber 1st).

The actor, who also had recurring roles in both Eastenders and Coronation Street, was best known for his time on Fawlty Towers, where he played bungling Spanish water Manuel, a man who often drew fury from John Cleese's hotel manager character, Basil Fawlty.

Cleese was among those to pay tribute to Sachs, calling him a "truly great farceur",

Just heard about Andy Sachs. Very sad....
I knew he was having problems with his memory as his wife Melody told me a couple of years ago...
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) December 1, 2016

...and I heard very recently that he had been admitted to Denham Hall,but I had no idea that his life was in danger. A very sweet gentle...
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) December 1, 2016

...and kind man and a truly great farceur.I first saw him in Habeas Corpus on stage in 1973.I could not have found a better Manuel. Inspired
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) December 1, 2016

A number of other actors have joined Cleese in offering tributes, you can see a selection of them below:

RIP Andrew Sachs. His work will be enjoyed for years to come.
— Jack Dee (@TheRealJackDee) December 2, 2016

RIP Andrew Sachs. You came here as a refugee with nothing but your talent and your spirit, and you enriched our lives. Thank you so much.
— Eddie Marsan (@eddiemarsan) December 2, 2016

So sad that Andrew Sachs has died. A true friend and a kindred spirit. I still have the wonderful baby pictures he took of my children. RIP.
— Tony Robinson (@Tony_Robinson) December 1, 2016