Neighbours star Troy Beckwith dead at 48

Neighbours stars have paid tribute to actor Troy Beckwith – who played Michael Martin, one of the enduring soap’s most popular villains on the show during the 1990s – after his death.

Neighbours star Troy Beckwith who played Michael Martin on the hit soap during the 1990s has died at the age of 48.

Beckwith’s former Neighbours co-star Kym Valentine confirmed the actor’s death in an emotional tribute posted to Facebook.

Valentine – who played the popular Libby Kennedy – wrote: “It pains me so much to have to say this.

“Our dear old friend Troy Beckwith has passed away. Another member of our TV family [has] gone way too soon.

Kym Valentine has paid tribute to her Neighbours co-star Troy Beckwith after his death at the age of 48. Picture: Supplied

She added: “Thanks for all the memories my cheeky mate and all my love to your friends and family.”

Beckwith played Martin on the beloved soap from 1992 to 1998 – with the character being branded “Sicko Micko”.

Beckwith is considered one of the great Neighbours villains and one of the most iconic characters from the 90s.

Tributes have poured in for the actor from other cast and crew from the leading Aussie soap.

They remembered him as a “cheeky and playful” man.

Troy Beckwith stepped away from the spotlight after his time on Neighbours. Picture: Supplied

Troy Beckwith played Michael Martin on Neighbours from 1992 until 1998. Picture: Supplied

Brett Blewitt, who recently returned to the soap after more than 28 years to reprise the role of Brett Stark, wrote: “He was such a lovely person.

“Deeply thoughtful and empathetic. Cheeky and playful once out of his shell.

“Way too soon. Love you mate.”

Neighbours casting director Jan Russ posted: “Dear Troy … That is so sad. Gorgeous boy.”

While Lucinda Cowden, who plays Melanie Pearson on the soap, posted a string of broken heart emojis.

Troy Beckwith was popular with fans of the iconic show. Picture: Supplied

The actor’s friend Selina Laine Bonica wrote: “We lost a star and the heavens gained one.

“Troy, you were a pain in my a**, but I loved you dearly. I’m just glad you’re free from pain.”

Beckwith also played the lead character in the children’s series Pugwall, starring in the role of keyboard player Jeremy “Bazza” Bazlington.

In recent years, Beckwith retreated from the spotlight and, in 2017, sparked fears for his safety after going missing.

The actor disappeared in Melbourne leaving his partner and his family fearing for his welfare.

Police believed that he was staying in hostels around Melbourne, and had not been in contact with family or friends.

Thirteen days after being reported missing, Beckwith was found with Cranbourne Police tweeting at the time: “Great news! Missing 41-year-old Troy Beckwith has been located safe and well.”