Maltese actor Joe Gatt, known to television audiences for his roles as Charlie and Ġwann, has died aged 86.

Gatt was known for his appearances in popular Maltese television programmes including Simpatiċi, Il-Madonna taċ-Ċoqqa and Ipokriti, and was remembered by audiences for the characters he portrayed throughout his career.

His death was announced by his family on social media, with his granddaughter Abigail Valletta Gatt paying tribute to him as "Nannu Joe".

"Many knew him as Charlie or Giovann from Maltese television. To us, he was so much more," Valletta Gatt wrote, describing him as a man who was "incredibly talented in so many ways" but, above all, a loving and unforgettable part of their family.

She said the family would cherish every memory, laugh, story and moment they had shared with him.

"His talent may have touched many but his love touched us in a way that words can never describe," she wrote.

Looking back at photographs from her wedding, Valletta Gatt recalled sharing what she described as one last dance with her grandfather, saying she had not known at the time that those moments would become some of her most precious memories.

"Our last dance. One last laugh. One last beautiful memory that I will carry with me forever," she wrote.

She said Gatt would always have a special place in the family's hearts and that they would miss and love him forever.

Gatt's funeral will be held on Monday, 21 September at 7.30am at the Mosta Parish Church.