Actor who played Tinky Winky in 'Teletubbies', Simon Barnes, dies

LONDON -- British actor Simon Shelton Barnes, who played Tinky Winky in the children's television series "Teletubbies," has died. He was 52.

The Liverpool Coroner's Office said Thursday it is investigating the death of Barnes, whose body was found in the northwestern English city on Jan. 17. Police say the death is not suspicious, and have referred it to the coroner to determine the cause.

Barnes played one of four gentle, brightly colored characters in the toddler-centric show between 1998 and 2001. "Teletubbies" became such a global hit that Barnes once called it The Beatles of children's television.

Show producer Ragdoll Productions tweeted that Barnes was "a joy to work with, which was clear from the fun and energy that came through the screen, in all of his performances as Tinky Winky."

We will always remember Simon Shelton. He was such a joy to work with, which was clear from the fun and energy that came through the screen, in all of his performances as Tinky Winky. @CBeebiesHQ
— Ragdoll Productions (@RagdollTV) January 23, 2018