Simon Shelton Barnes has died at the age of 52 (Picture: Rex/Shutterstock, Instagram)The man behind Tinky Winky, who carried the infamous handbag on Telly Tubbies has died at the age of 52.

Simon Shelton Barnes, who was a trained ballet dancer and choreographer, leaves behind three children.

Paul McCartney’s brother Mike McGear was one of the first to pay tribute on Facebook: ‘So sad to hear about Si. He was a luvly lad..and will be dancing along Uncle Bills bar, knocking Mum&Dad, Milly&Ginny, Mike &Betts drinks off, as we talk! Luv to U & kids from me & mine X’.




The first episode aired in 1997 before the beloved series, which also starred the characters Dipsy, Laa Laa and Po, ended in February 2001.

The actor was in 14 episodes from 1998 to 2001, including shows such as Oranges and Lemons, Trickle Painting, Going Up and Down, Buying a Sari.

Reverand Jerry Falwell accused Tinky Winky of being gay in 1999 when the show hit America, Simon’s response to the scenario was: ‘I found it amusing and quite staggering really!

‘I didn’t know who he was, so I just thought it was someone trying to become famous.’

The show aired from 1998 to 2001.

Simon Shelton Barnes was one of several actors to play the role of Tinky Winkey (Picture: S Meddle/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Simon’s acting resume only extends to nine productions.

First role was in 1988’s Anna, where he played Tänzer. Ann is the story of young German ballerina, and her journey to become a professional dancer. He was a trained ballet dancer who lived in America until the age of 16 before returning to the UK to study

Other roles included Male prostitute in Prisoner of Honor and a credit in Peter Kay’s Children In Need video.

His wife Emma was one of the original Sheela’s Wheel girls for the famous car insurance ads.

He was one of a few actors to take on the iconic role

Tinky Winky’s character, which was also played by Dave Thompson and Mark Heenehan as well as Jeremiah Krage in the new series, is the first Teletubby.

Tinky Winky was meant to the largest and the oldest of the group, and the character was known for his red bag.

MORE: 8 retro TV shows to watch with your kids