The actor who played Peter McCallister in Home Alone and its sequel has been found dead at the age of 72.

John Heard, who was perhaps best known for his role in the iconic Christmas movies, was discovered by staff at a hotel in Palo Alto, California just yesterday.

The actor, who also enjoyed major success on The Sopranos, underwent minor back surgery just two days before his body was discovered, however the County of Santa Clara coroner has yet to confirm the cause of death.

According to the actor's representative who spoke to TMZ, John had chosen to stay at a hotel while he recovered from the surgery.

John was pronounced dead at the scene.