Comedian Kelly Monteith has died. He was 80 years old.

Monteith was an American comedian but was known in the UK for his self-named BBC series that ran from 1979 to 1984. It is believed that he was one of the first American stand-up to be given a series on the BBC. Kelly Monteith's show, written with Neil Shand, played with formats, mixing sitcom and sketch styles. He also appeared on the Des O'Connor Show which was important in giving American comedians exposure in the UK.

The news was confirmed by a statement from The Anglophile Channel which said: "It is with great sadness that The Anglophile Channel announces the passing of our dearest friend/teammate, comedian and broadcaster Kelly Monteith."

He appeared at the Royal Variety Performance in 1983. In 1984 he released the album Lettuce Be Cool on Chrysalis Records (pictured). Buy it here.

Comedian Bennett Arron tweeted the news: "Kelly Monteith has passed away! A few years ago I said in an interview that, along with Morecambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper and my father, he was one of my favourite comedians. He heard about it, got in contact and thanked me. It's sad that many won't know of him. #RIPKellyMonteith"

Watch Kelly Monteith in action below.