Dick Van Dyke was mistakenly announced dead during an awkward moment on Heart Radio's Breakfast Show on Thursday. During the showbiz news segment, reporter Ashley Roberts got her names mixed up as she told hosts Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston she had some "sad news" to share.

Revealing the news, she said live on-air: "Dawson’s Creek’s Dick Van Dyke has passed away,” before Jamie quickly interrupted to correct her.

"Not Dick Van Dyke - come on. If you’re going to do a sensitive moment, if you’re going to do an obituary, you can’t just say Dick Van Dyke," he replied.

"He’s alive," Amanda added, as Ashley laughed at her mistake. The former Pussycat Doll quickly clarified: "Yes, [he’s alive] - he’s 100 years old!"

"Unbelievably, he’s very much still alive," Jamie reiterated. Apologising, Ashley continued: "Oh my gosh, we spoke about this, I’m so sorry."

She then confirmed that it was actually Dawson’s Creek actor James Van Der Beek who had died, before issuing another apology for her error.

James died aged 48 after battling colorectal cancer. Since the news broke, many of his co-stars have paid tribute on social media, including his former on-screen lover Katie Holmes.

In an emotional statement, she remembered him for his "bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength", as well as his "appreciation for life".

"This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved," she added.

"James. Thank you. To share space with your imagination is sacred - breathing the same air in the land of make-believe and trusting that each other’s hearts are safe in their expression."

Busy Philipps also paid tribute, writing: "James Van Der Beek was one in a billion and he will be forever missed and I don’t know what else to say. I am just so, so sad."

Following the announcement of his death, James’ wife, Kimberly, with whom he shared six children, posted a link on social media to a GoFundMe campaign, citing "financial strain".

She wrote: "The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.

"They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time."

As for Dick Van Dyke, he is still thriving after celebrating his 100th birthday in December.

When asked about the secret to his longevity on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast last year, he said: "Somebody said, 'To what do you attribute your age and physical condition?' and I said, 'I’ve always exercised'. Three days a week, we go to the gym — still. I get down and do a lot of stretching and yoga-type things, sit-ups."