The son of hugely popular Children’s BBC actor Colin Bennett has been left stunned at the outpouring of emotional tributes after announcing his death. Colin was remembered by thousands for his role as Mr Bennett on the BBC children’s show Take Hart and its spin-off Heartbeat. His son Tom Bennett, who followed in his footsteps by becoming an actor, announced on Friday that he had passed away.

Speaking on X, formerly Twitter, Tom said: “My Dad (Mr Bennett) sadly passed away 2 weeks ago today. I still don’t quite have the words. He was my hero. I will miss him more than he will ever know. I love you, Dad.”

Colin is best known for his role as caretaker Mr Bennett on Take Hart, which ran from 1977 to 1983. He had appeared alongside the late Tony Hart in the BBC art show, which also featured the animated character Morph. Colin reprised his role in the spin-off Hartbeat, which ran from 1984 until 1989.

He also appeared in shows like You Should Be So Lucky, the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and Luna. His more recent credits include the film Rebecca (2020) and he had a role in the show The Full Monty, released last year. Fans paid tribute to the late actor in response to his son’s announcement.

Many left tributes after the post with Kidzcoolit said: “Bless you man. We ALL loved your Dad. Big part of so many of our childhoods. Love to you and your family! Nick xxx.” John Rain said: “Oh Tom. I’m so sorry to hear this. As you know I was such a fan as a kid, and he really was an agent of wonderful mischief that brought so much joy and happiness to me, and so many other kids on one of my very favourite shows. Wishing you all the very best. Xxx”

Amanda added: “Oh, Tom, I’m so sorry. Your dad was a lovely memory from my childhood. He seemed like a very special man. Lots of love to you and yours x.” Helen Beet said: “When I was little, me and my brother would play Tony Hart and Mr Bennett. I would make a lovely tower of bricks and my brother would knock them over resulting in me exclaiming: “Oh Mr Bennett.” Fondly remembered to this day.”

Following a series of tributes, Tom said: “He wouldn’t have believed the amount of love he’s getting right now! The number of amazing replies is a testament to who he was as a man & make me so very proud he was my dad! He’d be so honoured, humbled and pleased he played even a tiny part in many of your childhoods! Thank you.”

He later added: “I had no idea the outpouring of love would be so huge! I’m truly overwhelmed in the most joyously emotional way possible by all your kind, heartfelt words. He was a special man & I’m so proud & it’s bringing me so much joy he meant so much to so many of you.”