Ted White, who is best known for playing Jason Vorhees in Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, has reportedly died at the age of 96.
The veteran actor and stuntman was said to have died peacefully in his sleep.
His passing was revealed in a Facebook post by Sean Clark (producer and host of Horror's Hallowed Grounds), who referred to the late star as his "adopted grandpa" and "dear friend". The two had worked together for a number of years.
Clark wrote in the heartfelt post: "As I’m here setting up at Monsterpalooza I just got hit with the news that my dear friend Ted White has passed away. I was told he passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home.
"I’ve had the pleasure of knowing him and working with him for close to 20 years. He was my adopted grandpa and hands down the best storyteller you could have ever met. If you haven’t read it yet check out his book Cast a Giant Shadow where many of those stories are told.
"I was honored to be mentioned in the book when he wrote about his time in the convention world. I am going to miss you immensely and those steak dinners we always had.
"Also teasing you about your red, white and blue banner that made you look like you were running for President. It was an absolute honor my friend. Rest easy. Love you Ted."
He concluded the post with a broken heart emoji.
Fans, colleagues and acquaintances have since taken to social media to mourn the loss of the talented actor, with Friday the 13th Part 3's Larry Zerner tweeting: “I had the pleasure of being seated next to Ted White at Monster Mania Con and he was just a terrific presence, a great guy, and a fantastic Jason. RIP.”
A fan wrote: "Rest in peace, Ted White. We lost a real one in the horror/slasher genre today. For those who aren’t away, he played Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter. Fly high."
Makeup artist Tom Savini said: "I’m 75 and I still want to be Ted White when I grow up. Tough as nails with a heart of gold. Pure class. He will be missed. Us on set of Friday the 13th part 4."
Our thoughts are with White's family at this time.
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