Irish comedian Brendan Grace has died. He had recently been diagnosed with lung cancer and was in a hospital in Ireland.
The 68-year old performer was having treatment for pneumonia when the condition was discovered. Last night there were reports on social media that he had died but there was no official announcement until this morning when the news was posted on his Facebook page as follows:
"It is with deep sadness and regret that we announce the passing of Brendan Grace, Ireland’s most beloved entertainer, Liberty Boy and grandmaster of Comedy.
Brendan passed away most peacefully at the Galway Clinic at 26 minutes past midnight, Thursday 11th July. He did so, surrounded by the profound and everlasting love of his heartbroken family.
Brendan’s family wish to express their gratitude for the many messages of support and outpouring of love from his adoring and loyal fans.
We would also like to express our deep gratitude for the Nurses, doctors and staff at The Galway Clinic, who cared for Brendan with such loving dedication.
We have lost a very bright star. May he watch over us always and rest in peace.
Please feel free to share your stories and memories and help us celebrate the life that Brendan lived to the full and the much joy he has brought to so many over the years."
Dara O Briain was one of many who paid tribute on Twitter: "So sad to hear the news of the death of Brendan Grace. A genuine comedy legend in Ireland, when we were growing up he was the king of the entertainers. Sorry I never met him, but relieved I never had to follow him. RIP Brendan."
Grace has suffered from a number of health problems in recent years including a stroke and complications from diabetes. In an interview in the documentary Brendan Grace: Funny Man he said: "I got diabetes, it was a bit of a blow to me. Eileen [my wife] often said to me about the diabetes, that she wished it was her who got it because she would be better able to discipline herself into the right thing to do, whereas I'm inclined to throw caution to the wind. I've stopped playing the guitar because I had to use pressure on my fingers for the guitar and I don't use a guitar on stage now."
Father Ted Picture: C4.
