Blake’s 7 star Paul Darrow has died at the age of 78 following a short illness, a spokeswoman for JACKfm has said.

The Surrey-born actor was best known for playing Avon in the 70s and 80s BBC sci-fi series Blake’s 7, but also appeared in more than 200 other shows including Doctor Who, The Saint, Z Cars, Emmerdale, Hollyoaks and Little Britain. 

Maureen Marrs, his long-time companion and PA, said:

“Over three decades I have been Paul’s confidante and have had the immense privilege of being part of his life. A star has gone out today; the world will be a darker place without him”.

Darrow appeared in two Doctor Who television stories; as Captain Sam Hawkins in Doctor Who and the Silurians and Tekker in Timelash.

He also voiced Guidance in the Big Finish Doctor Who audio story The Next Life and Kaston Iago in the Kaldor City audio series.

He is best known for playing Kerr Avon in Blake’s 7 and has reprised his role for Big Finish Productions.

Darrow also appeared on the stage, including four seasons at the Bristol Old Vic and London’s West End, and was the voice of JACKfm and Union JACK radio.

We recommend listening to his Autobiography in his own words from Big Finish Productions.