Radio 4 comedian Jeremy Hardy dies
Comedian Jeremy Hardy died of cancer early on Friday, his publicist Amanda Emery said.
In a statement, Ms Emery said: “Friends and family of comedian Jeremy Hardy are immensely sad to announce that Jeremy died of cancer, early on Friday 1st February.
“He was with his wife and daughter as he died.
“He retained to the end the principles that guided his life; trying to make the world more humane, and to be wonderfully funny.
“He will be enormously missed by so many, who were inspired by him and who laughed with him.
“A fitting memorial will take place, details to be announced soon.”
Celebrities have poured in tributes to the late star.
Pointless star Richard Osman wrote on Twitter: “I was very lucky to work with Jeremy Hardy early in my career.
“Every day was a masterclass, a privilege. He was so naturally and brilliantly funny, and a man who chose to use his comedy to change the world, rather than to fill stadia. A very sad day. #RIPJeremy.”
Comic Jack Dee also paid tribute to Hardy on Twitter, writing: “Jeremy Hardy was ground-breakingly brilliant, off the register funny, compassionate and caring. So privileged to have counted him as a dear friend. My love goes out Katie and Betty and all his wonderful family. x”
Comedian Angela Barnes, who has appeared on both The News Quiz and Mock The Week, wrote on Twitter: “Utterly heartbroken to have to say goodbye to Jeremy Hardy.
“He was so very kind and supportive of me, I’ve had so many laughs sat next to him on the News Quiz and even more in the pub afterwards. So much love and strength to his family. Night Jeremy, cheers for the laughs xxx.”
Reverend Richard Coles has also paid tribute, writing: “So sorry to hear of the death of Jeremy Hardy. We used to have the same pee break at GLR in the 80s and would chat in a comradely way at the urinals.”
