"A remarkable force..."

Karl Shiels has passed away, aged 47. The Dublin-born actor was best known for his role as Robbie Quinn in RTE's Fair City, as well as his work in Irish theatre. Shiels' agent Lisa Richard confirmed the news to RTE today. "We are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our client and friend Karl Shiels, yesterday," she said in a statement. "Karl was a uniquely talented individual, simultaneously intense, light hearted, funny, sharp witted, outspoken and intensely powerful as an actor, director and artistic director of the Theatre Upstairs - where he was such a support and mentor for young writers, actors and directors -  and of his own company Semper Fi before that. "Karl was a remarkable force in Irish theatre and hugely loved and respected by all who worked with him. "Our hearts are broken but today our thoughts are with his partner Laura and his family, his children and their mother Dearbhla and his many close friends among whom we count ourselves lucky to have been for so many years." Shiels first took on the role of Quinn in Fair City in 2014. He was last seen in the RTE soap on Sunday night. Brigie de Courcy, executive producer of Fair City said that Shiels brought "such, warmth, talent and humour to Carrigstown." "We are absolutely devastated and he will be so greatly missed by the entire cast and crew," she said. "Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly sad time."