It has tragically been reported that Kristian Healey has passed away at 38-years-old.

The soap star’s cause of death remains unknown.

His Brookside and Hollyoaks co-stars have been paying tribute to him on social media.

Leon Lopez, who played Jerome Johnson, posting on Twitter: “Am absolutely heart broken by the news about @Smithdownslim! Such a lovely soul! RIP X”

Suzanne Collins, who played Nikki Shadwick on the TV show, wrote on Twitter: “Devastated to hear that @Smithdownslim has died.

“Love to his son Jakey & family#TooYoung #CherishEveryDay #BrookieBratPack.”

They weren’t the only ones to pay homage to the much-loved Liverpudlian soapstar.

Russ Pritchard tweeted: “Tell everyone you love that you love them as often as possible, because we really don’t know how long any of us have here #KrisEaley”

Karen Cleary added emotionally: “So sad to hear @Smithdownslim’s suddenly gone. Can’t quite grasp it. So unexpected. Such a nice fella. Much too young. Rest in peace Kris xx”

And musician Pete Wylie also paid tribute, tweeting: “So very sad to hear the shocking news about Kris Ealey. Always a power for good,whether music or mood. Gonna be missed big time. Love to all those left behind xxx”

Kristian played janitor Matt Musgrove in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks from 2000 to 2004, having initially played the same character in Brookside two years previously.

His character was famed for his rocky relationship with radio DJ Chloe Bruce, leaving Hollyoaks permanently when she split with him for good.

Kristian then went on to perform in Liverpool-based band Tramp Attack, alongside soon-to-be Zuton Dave McCabe.

He was also cast as Ringo Starr in the film In His Life: The John Lennon Story.

Speaking with the Northern Echo, his co-star Suzanne Collins said: “He was brilliant to work with, he was loads of fun.

“He was a fantastic actor, but you should have heard him sing. Musically he was so good, he loved to sing and play the guitar.

“It’s terrible terrible news. He lived for his young son Jakey. I’m so shocked and gutted.”

Our thoughts are with Kristian’s little boy, as well as all of his family and friends, at this tragic time.