Ed Gale has died aged 61

His family said in a statement: "It is with a heavy heart and a surprisingly light coffin (see what I did there?) that we announce the sudden passing of our uncle.

"Ed Gale has taken his final bow and is now headlining in the afterlife."

Authorities in Los Angeles had launched an inquiry into scandalous claims against the actor, with the Los Angeles Times reporting Ed had admitted to engaging in sexually explicit conversations with someone he believed to be a teenage boy and had attempted to arrange a meeting.

Born in Michigan, Ed suffered from dwarfism, standing at just 3ft 4in.

He left his hometown at the age of 20, travelling to California with $41 and the goal of becoming an actor.

His family added in their tribute: "Ed hitched a ride to California when he was twenty years old, with $41 and a dream, and he never looked back.

"He lit up the silver screens in cult classic films like 'Howard the Duck' and 'Chopper Chicks in Zombietown', earning himself some serious street cred at every con he attended. Which he never stopped bragging about. Ever."

Ed's breakout role came in 1986 when he played the titular character in the cult film 'Howard the Duck'.

Two years later, he was cast as the physical performer for Chucky in the 1988 film 'Child's Play', a role he reprised in sequels over the next decade.

He became known for his work across more than 130 film, television and commercial credits, often appearing in science fiction and horror genres.

In addition to 'Child's Play', Ed gained a loyal following for his performances in films such as 'Chopper Chicks in Zombietown', and his presence at fan conventions became a regular part of his public life.

Before his death, the Los Angeles Times reported police had launched an investigation following allegations the actor had communicated sexually with people he believed to be underage.

The report stated Ed had admitted to the accusations during questioning.

No further details have been released regarding the circumstances of his death.