Battlestar Galactica actor Richard Hatch dies aged 71

Hatch never shied away from his Battlestar fame and in fact became its strongest advocate. He hosted conventions, wrote novels and even produced a trailer as part of a campaign to create a sequel to the original 1970s version.

This didn't work, but he was persuaded to return to the series for the TV reboot from 2004 to 2009 as new character Tom Zarek.

Paul Hatch wrote: “In spite of significant roles in other series and motion pictures over the following decades, his connection with the original Battlestar as well as the remake created an international following among science fiction fans. While continuing his acting career Richard was a popular figure at comic book conventions, science fiction forums and even hosted his own cruise ship events.”

A long career in film and TV also included roles in Streets of San Francisco, Baywatch and Dynasty.

Battlestar Galactica's actors and creators from across the decades have paid tribute to their star.

My heart is breaking.Thank you for being a wonderful friend and teacher both in front of and behind the camera. RIP RichardHatch #SSWA ❤️

— Leah Cairns (@LeahCairns) February 7, 2017

Hatch will return to screens once more as he appears in the 2017 movie Diminuendo, which is written and directed by Bryn Pryor and stars Chloe Dykstra, Leah Cairns, Gigi Edgley and Walter Koenig.

Pryor said the sci-fi drama would showcase Hatch's "incredible talent in a way that had never been seen”.

He added: "Richard knew he wasn't going to be around to see the finished film, but we were able to arrange for him to view the final cut, and I'm proud we could do that. It was very important for him to see it."