Neal James — known as “Banjo Man” on the popular Animal Planet series, “Call of the Wildman” — has died …

The Washington County Coroner’s Office tells TMZ, James had been battling heart issues for years now. He died of natural causes at his Kentucky home.

James became a sensation on the reality show largely in part to his friendship with the show’s star … “The Turtleman” Ernie Brown Jr. He endeared himself to fans with his twangy voice, easy-going attitude, long beard and, of course, his banjo.

Not long ago he suffered a heart attack and told his fans he’d seen the other side. RIP