LazyTown’s Robbie Rotten actor Stefan Karl Stefansson dies aged 43

He played Robbie Rotten on the show since 2004.

Stefan Karl Stefansson died yesterday at the age of 43 following a two-year cancer battle. The Icelandic actor who played villain Robbie Rotten on the hugely popular kids' TV series LazyTown for nearly 15 years had been in treatment for bile duct cancer but sadly passed away yesterday. The actor’s family revealed his cancer was terminal recently with his wife Steinunn Olina Porsteinsdottir saying:

“We know that time is now more precious than ever and we have decided to enjoy it while having the chance. “It is unbearable for us to tell our children that their father will not be an old man and that the time we have together is very short.”

After his diagnosis was revealed, fans of the actor began a crowdfunding page to help his wife, three daughters and son who all live in Los Angeles. Speaking earlier this year, Stefan said of his condition:

“It’s not until they tell you you’re going to die soon that you realise 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.”

Fans have been sharing their condolences with the actor’s family online, many talking about what a huge part of their childhood Stefan was.

“Even if his character never became a meme, his work was great and was part of my childhood watching LazyTown,” read one tweet. “Sad to hear he’s gone but at least he won’t be forgotten.”