Dick Van Patten, who starred in the hit show "Eight is Enough" from 1977 to 1981 passed away on Tuesday at the age of 86,  The New York Times reported.

The actor died at Saint John's Hospital located in Santa Monica, California due to complications to diabetes.

"I am sorry to report this sad news," Patten's publicist said. "He was the kindest man you could ever meet in life. A loving family man. They don't make them like him anymore. His family will not be doing any press at this time."

Budd Burton Moss, Van Patten's long-time agent, has also confirmed his friend's death, according to CNN.

He said, "He had been ill for a long time."

Van Patten has been into acting since he was a child, first appearing on a Broadway show at the age of 7. He appeared in theatrical presentations on Broadway for about 27 times.

Patten first rose to popularity when he joined the hit TV show "Eight is Enough," where he played the character of a family dad named Tom Bradford. "Eight is Enough" ran from 1977 to 1981 and during its four-season run, Patten also guested on the American TV series "The Love Boat" in 1977.

Apart from his appearance on the TV show, the actor also starred in various movies, including "Robin Hood Men in Tights" and Mel Brooks parody "Space Balls."

While Van Patten has already attained a considerable amount of success after headlining the ABC hit series, he continued to pursue his acting career and played guest star roles on other shows such as "Diary of a Teenage Hitchhiker" and "This One For Dad." 

His last known role on television was in "Hot in Cleveland" back in 2011. 

His film credits include big films in the 1970s, inlcuding "Soylent Green," "Westworld" and "Zachariah."

Dick Van Patten is survived by his wife Pat and his children Nels, Jimmy and Vincent.