Former \'Peaky Blinders\' star Karl Shiels has died at the age of 47.
The actor - who played the character Ryan in the BBC drama in 2013 and is also famous for his role as Robbie Quinn in Irish soap \'Fair City\' - passed away suddenly on Sunday (14.07.19).
His agent Lisa Richard confirmed the tragic news in a statement to RTE - the broadcaster of \'Fair City\' - saying: "We are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our client and friend Karl Shiels.
"Karl was a uniquely talented individual, simultaneously intense, lighthearted, funny, sharp witted, outspoken and intensely powerful as an actor, director and artistic director of the Theatre Upstairs - where he was such a support and mentor for young writers, actors and directors - and of his own company Semper Fi before that.
"Our hearts are broken but today our thoughts are with his partner Laura and his family, his children and their mother Dearbhla and his many close friends among whom we count ourselves lucky to have been for so many years."
Brigie de Courcy, executive producer of \'Fair City\', also paid tribute to Karl and praised his portrayal of Robbie Quinn in the long-running serial.
Brigie said: "Joining \'Fair City\' in 2014, Karl Shiels made his mark immediately playing the formidable Robbie Quinn, and always brought such, warmth, talent and humour to Carrigstown.
"We are absolutely devastated and he will be so greatly missed by the entire cast and crew. Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly sad time."
