Tab Hunter, the 1950s Hollywood heartthrob, has died just short of his 87th birthday.
A statement on Facebook overnight read: “Tab passed away tonight three days shy of his 87th birthday. Please honor his memory by saying a prayer on his behalf. He would have liked that.”
Having starred in classic films including Track of the Cat, Battle Cry, and The Burning Hills, Hunter became an LGBTIQ+ icon after coming out as gay in 2005.
Having lived a "double life" for decades, he went on to write about his previous long-term relationships with fellow actor Anthony Perkins and figure skater Ronnie Robertson in his memoir, Tab Hunter: Confidential.
His memoir was then turned into a documentary of the same name, which was directed by his partner of more than 35 years, Allan Glaser.
In a full-circle moment for the ageing star, Hunter's relationship with Perkins was this year in the process of being adapted into a Hollywood film, with he and Glaser consulting on the project.
Members of the LGBTIQ+ community took to social media to mourn the original golden boy's passing.
Actor Zachary Quinto shared a photo of Hunter on Instagram, writing: “So sad to wake up to the news of the passing of Tab Hunter. I was honoured to get to know him in the past year and am so grateful to have experienced his sheer joy and love of life. And what a life!"
He continued: "Such a rich experience. Such a vital and generous nature. And such a pioneer of self-acceptance and moving through this world with authenticity as his guide. He will be missed greatly, may he rest in peace.”
George Takei tweeted that Hunter was "so much more than a teen heartthrob".
"He was a celebrated actor, trailblazer and an icon for the LGBTQ community. Brad and I extend our deepest condolences to his husband, Allan Glaser," Takei wrote.
"RIP Tab, you will be sorely missed.”
As news of his passing spread, flowers were left at Hunter's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
