Australian actor Paul Cronin, best known for his role in The Sullivans, has died at 81.
Cronin - who won five silver Logies - played Dave Sullivan in the beloved TV drama from 1976-1983, and Gary Hogan in Matlock Police (1971-76).
He was also a passionate AFL supporter who founded the Brisbane Bears team in 1986 and served as president of the club from 1987 until 1989.
The team, now known as the Brisbane Lions, will wear black armbands on Saturday night for their clash against the GWS Giants as a mark of respect for Cronin, as well as the NRL's Danny Frawley.
"Paul played a important role in bringing AFL to Queensland through leading the consortium that established the Brisbane Bears," the Lions said in a statement.
"A national Australian Rules football competition exists today because of the passion and energy of people like Paul and we are very grateful for his contribution to this legacy."
Born in Jamestown, South Australia in 1938, he was married to wife Helen for 50 years. She died in 2013.
He also starred as Gary Hogan in Matlock Police, and its spin-off Solo One (1976), both of which were set in a country town in Victoria.
Other TV credits included Homicide, Division 4, The Flying Doctors, A Place To Call Home, and State Coroner.
Paul Cronin played Dave Sullivan in the beloved TV drama The Sullivans from 1976-1983. Source: Supplied
In the 1980s, Cronin fronted a series of TV commercials about drink driving, with his tagline "What sort of friend are you? ... Would you let a mate drink and drive?"
He died surrounded by his four daughters and grandchildren, the Herald Sun reported.
"He was the most wonderful father, he was protective, he would have done everything for his girls," daughter Susanne said.
We loved him so much, he adored mum so much."
Australian entertainers have paid tribute to the actor online.
"Saddened to hear of the death of our old family friend Paul Cronin. Great actor, great guy. Will be missed," wrote comedian Marty Fields on Twitter.
Radio host Simon Owens said he shared many laughs while working together.
"So sad to hear of the passing of the lovely Paul Cronin. It was an honour to have worked with the great man. Many, many laughs. There will never be another Dave Sullivan," he wrote.
Other fans of the show were quick to post messages on social media, remembering their connection to the actor.
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