Child star on sitcom Alice, Philip McKeon dies aged 55

Philip McKeon has died aged 55 after battling a long term illness.

A child star on popular US sitcom Alice, between 1976 and 1985, he died on Tuesday morning in Texas, according to family spokesman Jeff Ballard.

In a statement, Ballard shared the sadness of McKeon’s family at his passing.

He said: “We are all beyond heartbroken and devastated over Phil’s passing.

“His wonderful sense of humor, kindness and loyalty will be remembered by all who crossed his path in life.”

McKeon was just four years old when he began his professional career, when his parents took him along with two-year-old sister Nancy to a modelling audition.

He started modelling and appearing in magazines, newspapers, and television commercials, while Nancy eventually became an actress, best known for her role in Facts of Life.