AceShowbiz - Colin Petersen a.k.a. Smiley, the original drummer for the legendary band Bee Gees, has passed away at the age of 78. His death was announced on Monday, November 18 by his current band The Best of the Bee Gees on Facebook.

"It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin 'Smiley' Petersen. He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect," a statement on the Facebook post read. "Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace."

Born Frederick Colin Petersen in Australia, Petersen gained fame as a child actor in the 1956 film "Smiley", earning him his nickname. In 1966, he joined the Bee Gees, which then consisted of brothers Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb and Maurice Gibb. Petersen played drums on the band's first four albums, including "Bee Gees' 1st", featuring hits like "To Love Somebody" and "I Just Gotta Get a Message to You".

From 1967 to 1969, Petersen contributed to the albums "Horizontal", "Idea" and "Odessa", establishing Bee Gees as an international sensation. He played on several classic tracks, including "I've Gotta Get a Message to You", "I Started a Joke" and "Words".

Petersen left the group in 1969 due to disagreements with the band's manager Robert Stigwood. He went on to form Humpy Bong, a short-lived folk-rock band.

After retiring from music, Petersen and his wife Joanne Newfield managed other artists through their management company. In recent years, he performed with The Best of the Bee Gees, sharing stories and songs from his time with the original band.

Petersen's drumming helped define the early sound of the Bee Gees. His signature style of "less is more" contributed to the group's unique and enduring legacy. He will be remembered as a talented musician and a valued member of one of the most iconic bands of all time.