Canadian actor Alan Thicke dead at 69

Canadian actor and beloved “Growing Pains” dad Alan Thicke has passed away at the age of 69.

A publicist says Thicke died yesterday after suffering a heart attack.

Thicke was born in Kirkland, Ont. in 1947 and worked as a television host for a popular Canadian talk show before heading to the United States.

Although he was best known for his role as Dr. Jason Seaver on the sitcom “Growing Pains”, Thicke also composed several theme songs for popular television shows, including the “The Wheel of Fortune” tune, “The Facts of Life” and “Diff’rent Strokes.”

His long and accomplished career included a recent appearance on “Fuller House” and his last tweet was about the show.

Season 2 Fuller House looking good. I even like the ones I’m not in! #fullerhouse @fullhouseguy @bobsaget @candacecbure #netflix

— Alan Thicke (@Alan_Thicke) December 13, 2016

Candace Cameron Bure is one of several celebrities who tweeted tributes to the late actor.

I’m sad beyond words that Alan Thicke has passed away. I’ve known you since I was 8 years old… https://t.co/GLXSTK1nd7

— Candace Cameron Bure (@candacecbure) December 14, 2016

RIP Alan Thicke. I grew up watching him and got to know him through Robin. He was always so kind to me. So sad to hear about his passing.

— John Legend (@johnlegend) December 14, 2016

Alan Thicke was one of the nicest guys in our business. And he LOVED his family. And hockey. A shocking, sad loss.

— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) December 14, 2016

I am shocked & devastated at the news of Alan Thicke’s death. A friend for many years, he wrote & produced so many of my TV Specials…….

— Anne Murray (@annemurray1) December 14, 2016

Had the pleasure of meeting Alan Thicke and his amazing wife Tanya a few years back.. my thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP 😔

— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) December 14, 2016

Just heard of #AlanThicke‘s passing. 1st job in LA was as an intern for him… He was a very nice boss. Sending good thoughts to his family.

— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) December 14, 2016

So sad is the passing of Alan Thicke. Such a good husband, father, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace dear Alan.

— bob saget (@bobsaget) December 14, 2016

The NHL family is sad to learn of the passing of longtime hockey fan Alan Thicke. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/5ADyWRksuf

— NHL (@NHL) December 14, 2016

This morning Bob Cowan talked to TV Critic Bill Brioux about Thicke’s legacy.