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(Image: Stefán Karl Stefánsson/Facebook)

LazyTown actor Stefan Karl Stefansson has died, it has been confirmed.

The 43 year old, who played Robbie Rotten on the hit children’s TV show, suffered from cancer for two years.

Stefan’s family have now confirmed the sad news of his passing to TMZ via a spokesperson.

(Image: Stefán Karl Stefánsson/Facebook)

The spokesperson told the publication that the actor died on 21 August surrounded by his friends and family.

Stefan was first diagnosed with cancer in 2016 but, after an operation, announced his recovery in October 2017.

However, in March 2018, he was diagnosed with inoperable cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy treatment to prolong his life.

(Image: Stefán Karl Stefánsson/Facebook)

Just one month later, Stefan announced that he had personally chosen to end treatment and closed his social media accounts.

He wrote in a statement: "It's not until they tell you you're going to die soon that you realize how short life is. Time is the most valuable thing in life because it never comes back. And whether you spend it in the arms of a loved one or alone in a prison-cell, life is what you make of it. Dream big."

Although he starred in a number of theatre productions and films, Stefan will best be known for his role as Robbie Rotten on LazyTown, in which he starred for a decade.

(Image: BBC)

LazyTown followed the adventures of the town’s newest resident Stephanie who teamed up with local superhero Sportacus to help the town choose a healthier lifestyle.

Their plans were usually scuppered by Stefan’s character, Robbie, who would dress in disguise to trick the residents to make bad choices.

Stefan’s LazyTown co-stars are yet to comment on his death. He leaves behind his wife and four young children.