DONALD Gibb, who became a cult hero as frat boy Ogre in the hit Revenge of the Nerds movies, has died aged 71.

The actor passed away Tuesday evening at his home in Texas following ongoing health problems, his son Travis has said.

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Donald Gibb, known as Ogre in Revenge of the Nerds, has died at 71Credit: Avalon.red
 

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Gibb pictured left in the 1984 hit Revenge of the NerdsCredit: Pacific Coast News
Travis told TMZ his father died “due to health complications” and that he “was surrounded by family who loved him deeply.”

The family added: “Donald loved the Lord and his family, friends and fans with all his heart, and they ask for prayers and privacy during this difficult time.”

They also said their dad “will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”

Standing at a towering 6ft 4in, Gibb became one of the most recognisable faces of 1980s comedy after playing Frederick Aloysius “Ogre” Palowaski in the 1984 smash Revenge of the Nerds.

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Despite playing an intimidating jock, his comedic timing and oddball charm turned the character into a fan favourite.

He later reprised the role in Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise in 1987 and again in 1994’s TV sequel Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love.

Away from the cult franchise, Gibb carved out a long Hollywood career playing tough guys in films including Bloodsport, U.S. Marshals and Hancock.

He also became a familiar face on TV with appearances in hit shows including Knight Rider, MacGyver, Quantum Leap, Cheers, The X-Files, Seinfeld and Boy Meets World.

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Gibb was also a regular on HBO football sitcom 1st & Ten, which ran for six seasons.

Off-screen, those who worked with the actor described him as warm, humble and down-to-earth despite his fearsome on-screen image.

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The actor passed away on Tuesday evening at his Texas home after health issues, his son saidCredit: Getty