Gladiators star Falcon has died aged 59 after losing her battle with cancer.
Falcon - whose real name is Bernadette Hunt - found fame on the ITV show after joining the cast of the second season in 1993, and remained among the group until the show ended. One of Bernadette's relatives broke the sad news on a public Facebook group.
The partner of Bernadette's sister announced her tragic death alongside a heartfelt tribute as they described her as "one of the loveliest people" they'd ever met.
Accompanied by a photo taken of Bernadette while on Gladiators, they wrote: "It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner's younger sister Bernadette Hunt. Most people will remember her as Falcon From the hit TV Show Gladiators.
"I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met. She never had a bad word to say about anyone, indeed she was always known as the nicest Gladiator always stopping to speak and sign autographs for anyone".
They added: "She had been battling cancer for a number of years until sadly she lost he fight. RIP Bernie."
After Gladiators ended, Bernadette opted for a life out of the spotlight and worked as a fitness instructor at Basingstoke Sports Centre.
They confirmed in a comment response to a tribute that the funeral would be private and family only. The tributes began flooding in for the show legend, with her sister Carol writing: "My beautiful sister was the best kind of human being on this earth."
Her co-star Suzanne Cox, who was also known as Vogue, shared her condolences writing with a crying emoji: "I found out a few days ago."
Another added: "I wouldn't be the person I am today if it hadn't been for Bernie. It was she who convinced me to do my training to become an aerobic instructor in her days before Gladiators and had the pleasure of working with her at Basingstoke Sports Centre. She was the loveliest of ladies, a beautiful soul with the biggest heart and smile. My thoughts are with her family."
"Oh lovely Bernie... I'm so sorry to hear this... I had the great pleasure of knowing and working with her in our local village pub in the early 90s. Never a happier smilier soul I have met. Sending huge condolences and much love. Rest well Bernie," penned a third.
Bernadette is survived by her two children - Adam and Angel.
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