The Dubliner's long career spanned forty years
Some sad news this morning as it has been announced that Brendan Grace has died at the age of 68.
One of the best-known Irish comedians ever, Grace had recently announced the cancellation of several tour dates due to a lung cancer diagnosis.
He had been receiving treatment in hospital for pneumonia when the more serious illness was discovered.
His family said that he died peacefully and was grateful for the outpouring of support from fans since the announcement of his illness.
Best known to a certain generation as Fr. Fintan Stack from 'Father Ted', Grace's career spanned 40 years. His character Bottler was a fan favourite, while his song 'Combine Harvester', which was a hit in Ireland in 1975, went on to be covered by The Wurzels in 1976.
He leaves behind his wife Eileen and four children.
A book of condolence has been opened to the public at Dublin's Mansion House today from 12 - 5pm and tomorrow from 10am - 5pm.
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and other well-known names, including Brendan O'Carroll.
So sad at the passing of a great comedy legend, husband and father #brendangrace He opened doors for so many of us and leaves a legacy of love and laughter that will echo through this land and we will all mourn his passing. Rest peacefully Bottler you’ve earned it.
— Brendan O'Carroll (@brendanMrsBrown) July 10, 2019
I don't normally comment on people passing away but I am deeply saddened by the passing of one of our greatest entertainers Brendan Grace.I studied his timing as a child to help with my own timing on stage,and he was full of advice and laughter every time we met #ripbrendangrace
— Keith Barry (@KeithpBarry) July 11, 2019
I’m saddened to hear that Brendan Grace has died. I’ve known Brendan since he was a folk singer in the Universal Folk Centre in the 1960’s. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a Anam.
— vincent mccabe (@vpmccabe) July 11, 2019
Father Fintan Stack : Bye girls.
[pauses, then mutters]
Father Fintan Stack : Pair o' wankers
RIP Brendan Grace pic.twitter.com/E9e4JuQTs5— Shane Hogan (@ShaneGHogan) July 11, 2019
RIP Brendan Grace . He brought laughter many a night to the Ryan household through the tv screen. One of life’s Gentlemen. Here’s me having the honour of meeting him and his grandson at TV3. #Legend pic.twitter.com/E9kBLWYJR4
— Derek Ryan (@derekryanmusic) July 11, 2019
The man that made so many laugh has passed away. Brendan Grace was a one off, a genius of the one liner. He did it all without a bad word and always left people better than he found them. RIP @rtenews @NewstalkFM @PatKennyNT
— Martin Kiely (@MartinKiely1) July 11, 2019
R.I.P Brendan Grace. You had your fun, and that's all that matters ❤️
— ash 🍉 (@StevieNicksTD) July 11, 2019