Hi-De-Hi! legend Ruth Madoc’s shared a tragic last post about her health just hours before she died in hospital.
Ruth's agent confirmed the Gladys Pugh star had died on Friday following a surgery – after suffering a fall earlier in the week.
Before her death, the star had been optimistic about her health as she told her 13,500 Instagram followers she would "soon be back to normal" after pulling out of a pantomime in Torquay, Devon.
Ruth was due to take part in the Aladdin pantomime at the Princess Theatre but had to step back from her role.
However, the actress urged her fans "not to worry" as she discussed her health in her tragic final Instagram post.
She posted an image of the statement from the Princess Theatre, which read: "Following an accident earlier this week, and after medical assessment, regretfully Ruth Madoc is no longer able to appear in this year's pantomime of Aladdin at the Princess Theatre in Torquay.
"Everyone at the theatre wishes Ruth a speedy recovery. Furhter announcements regarding casting will take place in due course."
She then added in the caption: "Hiya everyone please don’t worry ! I’m well and I’ll soon be back to normal, but unfortunately @princesstheatretorquay won’t get to have The Empress Gladys in the Panto this Christmas !!!
"I’m doing really well and will soon be back to normal," she ended the post with.
But, tragically, Ruth later died in hospital after undergoing surgery.
Her talent agent Phil Belfield of agency Belfield & Ward Ltd later announced her death in a statement, which read: "It is with much sadness that we have to announce the death of our dear and much loved client Ruth Madoc.
"Ruth passed away on the afternoon of Friday 9 December while in hospital following surgery for a fall she had earlier in the week, which had led her to have to withdraw from panto in Torquay."
He described her as a "legend of the British entertainment scene" and a "unique talent loved by many".
Ruth's sudden death has sent shock waves through the TV and acting world as tributes have poured in to her memory.
Singer Paul Potts wrote: "So sad. I’ve sat with her at many charity functions. Lovely person."
Late actor John Challis' wife Carol said: "Sad news indeed. John and I did a panto season with Ruth and we enjoyed her company very much. Rest easy."
And Peep Show star Jim Howick added: "Farewell Ruth Madoc."
Ruth's career spanned many roles in theatre and musicals, including Fiddler On The Roof and Gypsy.
More recent performances included Little Britain and on stage with Calendar Girls.
She is survived by her two children, Rhys and Lowri.
