Eric Sykes dies aged 89

Words: Caroline Foran

Genius comedian Eric Sykes has died aged 89 after a short illness.

Known as one of Britain's most loved comedy actors and writers, Sykes was born in Oldham. His long and lustrious career began with writing radio material for comedians including Tony Hancock and Frankie Howerd. He then rose to fame in the 50s when he starred in a number of his own sitcoms - one of which was Sykes And A..., another of which was Dress Rehearsal - and later, a handful of movies.

Most recently you may recognise him from The Others starring Nicole Kidman and as a character in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire.

The sad news was broken by Sykes' manager Norma Farnes who made the following statement: "Eric Sykes, 89, star of TV, stage and films, died peacefully this morning after a short illness. His family were with him."

Tributes have already begun pouring in for the late comedan. Former BBC head of comedy Jon Plowman has described Sykes as "a warm man, a kind man, a warm family man... We won't see his like again. He was a wonderful improviser. His genius was both as a scriptwriter but also someone who could do stuff off the cuff. He was classless and funny and warm".

On Twitter David Baddiel ‏(@Baddiel) said: "RIP the great Eric Sykes" while Stephen Fry has said Stephen Fry ‏"Oh no! Eric Sykes gone? An adorable, brilliant, modest, hilarious, innovative and irreplaceable comic master. Farewell, dear, dear man."

Story by EI Team | 09:00 | Wednesday 4th July 2012 | Comedy

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