Dave Courtney, who claimed to be an associate of the Kray twins, was found dead at his home.
Image source, Getty ImagesFormer London gangster-turned-actor Dave Courtney has died aged 64.
Mr Courtney, who claimed to be an associate of the notorious Kray twins, was found dead at his home on Chestnut Rise, Plumstead, in the early hours of Sunday.
A post announcing his death on his Instagram account said Mr Courtney “took his own life”.
It said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Courtney at the age of 64.”
Image source, BBC/Harry Low
Mr Courtney was rumoured to be the inspiration behind Vinnie Jones’s character in Guy Ritchie’s gangster film Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels.
He swapped his life of crime to become an author and actor, publishing six books, and starring in a film called Hell To Pay.
In his final Facebook post, Mr Courtney could be seen watching Charlton Athletic win 4-0 against Reading on Saturday.
Image source, BBC/Harry Low
The Met Police said officers attended an address on Chestnut Rise at about 11:25 BST following reports of a man found deceased.
A 64-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, the force said.
His family has been informed.
Formal identification has not taken place, and the death is being treated as unexpected and is under investigation, the Met said.
No arrests have been made.
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