Actor Frank Kelly, best known for playing Father Jack Hackett in comedy series 'Father Ted', has died aged 77.

In a career spanning six decades, he became one of Ireland's best-known actors -appearing on film, television, radio and stage.

Kelly revealed last October he was suffering from Parkinson's disease.

Speaking shortly after his diagnosis he said he was determined to live life to the full despite the debilitating condition.  

Kelly said during his time with the UCD Drama society he started to do political satire. This eventually led to his first full time job in Dublin's Olympia:

Today marks exactly 18 years since Dermot Morgan, who played the character of Fr Ted Crilly, died aged 45.