Terrible news: Rik Mayall has died at the age of 56.
Horrible, horrible news. Comedian, actor and writer Rik Mayall has died at the age of 56.
The news has been confirmed by a spokesman for his management company, to the Press Association..
Mayall sprung to fame for many of us through The Young Ones. But heck: there's so much that he did. Bottom. Drop Dead Fred. The New Statesman. More recently in Jonathan Creek. And his scene stealing Lord Flashheart in Black Adder too - one of many roles that's going to be enjoyed for many decades to come.
One of the most gifted comedy actors of his generation - and legitimately a unique one - Mayall is survived by his wife and three children.
Mayall's death is a terrible loss, and a shocking one at such a young age. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at what must be a devastating time. Rest in peace, Mr Mayall.