Father Jack actor Frank Kelly dies aged 77
The Irish actor who played Father Jack in the Father Ted comedy series has died.
Frank Kelly, 77, spent 60 years on screen and stage.
He died exactly 18 years after the death of his Father Ted co-star Dermot Morgan.
Series writer Graham Linehan tweeted: "Just hearing from various sources that Frank Kelly has passed away.
"Terribly sad news. Thanks for everything."
Kelly revealed last November that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, although he said he would continue to work.
As well as appearing on the Channel 4 sitcom, he had more recent roles in Emmerdale and Mrs Brown's Boys D'Movie.
But he is best known for his role playing the irreverent and foul-mouthed priest Father Jack in a comedy which lampooned Irish Catholicism and proved a massive hit with viewers.
Morgan's son Don tweeted about the coincidence of the date of his co-star's death.
"Isn't life just weird? Frank Kelly going on Dad's anniversary."
