The comedian Sean Lock, best known for his role on the panel show 8 out of 10 Cats, has died aged 58 following a battle with cancer.
Lock, best known for his deadpan style, was a captain on the popular Channel 4 show as well as its hybrid show 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, opposite Jon Richardson.
He also appeared on other panel shows such as QI, The Last Leg, Have I Got News for You, and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year, the BBC sitcom 15 Storeys High, as well as numerous tours as a stand-up comedian.
Lock’s agent from Off The Kerb Productions said in a statement: “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 sorely missed by all that knew him. We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children is respected at this difficult time.”
Tributes to Lock from friends, colleagues and fans soon flooded Twitter as many remembered just how funny and witty the man was.
Many have recalled their favourite jokes from Lock, with Piers Morgan’s being a particular beaut.
And wordsmith Susie Dent, who often has a word for every occasion, was at a loss for word on this occasion – something which she felt Lock would have liked.