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Veteran Australian presenter and actor Alister Smart, an original Play School presenter, died last month aged 90, at his home in East Gippsland, Victoria.
The beloved actor, who was one of the original presenters on ABC's Play School in 1966, died on September 9, with reports of his passing only recently having been made public.
His death was confirmed by the ABC Kids Community group in a social media statement.
'Alister Smart, an original Play School presenter, appeared in the very first episode,' they began.
'He was also an actor and director. In loving memory.'
The Adelaide-born performer presented on the iconic children's program for over 20 years, from 1966 - 1989.
Veteran Australian presenter and actor Alister Smart, an original Play School presenter, died last month aged 90, at his home in East Gippsland, Victoria
He was renowned for his upbeat and energetic presenting style.
Across his run on the show, he shared the screen with some of the program's most popular presenters, including Noni Hazlehurst, Don Spencer, John Hamblin and Lorraine Bayly.
Smart was also a veteran actor, having appeared in a host of popular Australian productions, including Skippy, The Sullivans and Cop Shop.
He also worked behind the camera, directing episodes of many popular TV shows, including Neighbours, Blue Heelers and A Country Practice.
Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute.
'He was one of my faves on Play School. May he RIP,' one person wrote.
'Rest well Alister. Thank you for helping shape us,' another added.
'RIP Alister you legend and just a beautiful human being who loved to entertain a generation of kids,' someone else wrote.
Smart is survived by his wife Margery.
The beloved actor, who was one of the original presenters on ABC's Play School in 1966, died on September 9, with reports of his passing only recently having been made public
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