Comedian Sean Lock, best known for panel shows 8 Out Of 10 Cats and 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, has died aged 58, his agent has announced.
A statement shared on Twitter by his agent Off The Kerb Productions read: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Sean Lock. He died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family.
“Sean was one of Britain’s finest comedians, his boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy.
“Sean was also a cherished husband and father to three children. Sean will be missed sorely by all that knew him. We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children are respected at this difficult time.”
Comedians and friends of Lock have been sharing messages of support:
Bill Bailey: “It’s heartbreaking to lose my dearest friend Sean Lock, he was a true original, a wonderful comic. All my thoughts are with his family.”
Alan Davies: “Sad news about Sean Lock. Funny on stage, hilarious off. We met in 1988 right at the start of our stand up careers. I hadn’t seen him in recent years as he quietly wrestled with illness but I feel very sad today for Anoushka and their children. RIP Locky.”
Mark Watson: “Stunned to hear about Sean Lock. Worked with him without ever getting to know him; witnessed his talent from an intimidated distance. It’s an enormous loss to comedy.”
