Rik Mayall has passed away aged 56-years old.
The comedian from Essex, England, acted in numerous sitcoms, including The Young Ones, Blackadder, Bottom and The New Statesman. He also starred in the films Drop Dead Fred and Guest House Paradiso.
Mayall died on Monday, June 9th, with his wife Barbara Robbins stating that his cause of death is uncertain. Speaking to reporters, she said: “We don’t know yet what happened. He had a strong heart so I don’t think it was a heart attack.
“Maybe he had a fit, maybe it was his heart. We just don’t know until the coroner’s report.”
Mayall suffered from epilepsy following a quad bike accident in 1998, with him taking daily medication for the condition. Whether or not this is what led to his death has not been confirmed.
His Bottom co-star and friend Adrian Edmondson made a fitting tribute to him, saying: “There were times when Rik and I were writing together when we almost died laughing. They were some of the most carefree stupid days I ever had, and I feel privileged to have shared them with him.
“And now he’s died for real. Without me. Selfish bastard.”
In celebration of the comedy genius, here’s an hilarious clip of him and Edmondson improvising during one of their Bottom live shows.
%3
