Arthur Massey, star of Welcome to Wrexham, smiles as he looks to the right in a red cardigan
Arthur Massey, star of Welcome to Wrexham, has died aged 100

Welcome to Wrexham star Arthur Massey has died aged 100 after rising to fame as the club’s oldest fan.

Massey featured in Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s Disney Plus documentary and became a firm fan favourite.

His daughter Julie Birrell, revealed he died yesterday in a short tribute message on X, which read: ’14/3/24 – 8/8/24. RIP Dad.’

The club had presented Massey with a shirt which featured the number 100 for his big birthday celebration in March.

Massey also once met King Charles during his visit to the North Wales football club on December 9, 2022.

Fans have been quick to share messages of condolences and share their favourite memories of the star who fought in the Second World War.

Bryan Swarberg, who produced the documentary, said: ‘Incredibly sorry for your loss. His was a life well lived. He was a great man. Love to you and the family.’

Wrexham fan Craig Jones wrote: ‘So sorry to hear this Julie. Your Dad was a really lovely man who touched so many after appearing on the documentary.

‘I’m so happy he got to see our last two seasons and I’m sure he’ll be cheering us on tomorrow.’

The show’s official podcast hosts, Nathan Salt and Rich Fay, also shared: ‘Julie, we were only chatting about how inspired we have both been from your dad. Sending our condolences to you and all the family ❤️❤️’

Giacomo Cobianchi added: ‘So sorry for your loss. He will always be remembered by the Wrexham fans all over the world. Sincere condolences to you and the family.’

King Charles talks with Arthur Massey, Wrexham's eldest supporter, during a visit to Wrexham Association Football Club
Massey once met the King during a 2022 visit to the football club (Picture: ARTHUR EDWARDS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The news comes hours before Wrexham is due to kick off their new season, having earned a spot in League One.

Massey met club owner and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star McElhenney during the episode Temporary in series three.

This was a celebration of his 100th birthday and saw the Hollywood actor spend the afternoon with the dedicated fan.

In a touching moment, Massey shared: ‘Everything is temporary. No joy lasts forever. No pain lasts forever, either.

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‘That’s life. You have to accept what it is, not what you want it to be.’

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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