Actor Chris Gauthier has died aged 48 after a “short illness”.
The Canadian actor, who was best known for his roles in Once Upon a Time, Eureka, and Smallville, died on February 23.
“We can confirm that our friend and client, Chris Gauthier, passed away on Friday morning, February 23, at the age of 48 after a brief illness,” his representatives confirmed to CNN.
Stream the world’s best reality, entertainment and true-crime shows free on 7plus 
“As a beloved character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film.
“His loss is felt not just by his fans, but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally.
“On behalf of his family, we ask for privacy during this time so that they can grieve properly.”
His agent, Chad Colvin, shared memories in a Facebook post, writing, “This still doesn’t feel real. How can it? A world without you in it is a much darker place.”
“So much so that when his wife reached out to me yesterday with the news, I wept tears of disbelief for hours. It’s taken me until now to fully mentally and emotionally steel myself to write this,” Colvin wrote on Sunday.
“I wish we could have had a bit more time together and that you understood the difference you made, not just in my life, but all those you touched.
“This world is a bit smaller and colder now without you in it.”
Colvin noted Gauthier’s work on shows like Smallville and Supernatural, as well as his performance as William Smee on Once Upon a Time.
The English-born, Canadian-based actor was also mourned by his Once Upon a Time co-star, Raphael Sbarge.
“A sweeter, happier soul would be hard to find,” Sbarge wrote in the caption of a group photo he posted on his verified Instagram account.
“A man of consummate character, generosity and great talent, he was someone who cared deeply, loved his art, and was always kind to everyone he met.”
Some of Gauthier’s other credits include TV shows A Series of Unfortunate Events and Joe Pickett as well as several Hallmark TV movies including Ms. Christmas Comes to Town.
Fans have reacted to the news on social media.
“So sad to hear this Chad, Chris was a great actor, he was awesome in Eureka and Supernatural, a sad loss,” one Facebook user said.
“Oh no! I adore all the characters he so vibrantly brought to life. Sending love and hugs to you and everyone who knew and cared for him,” another said.
“Absolutely heartbreaking … I first saw him in Supernatural,” a third added.
– With CNN
