It is reported that renowned comedian and actor Rik Mayall passed away earlier today (June 9th)
He starred in The Young Ones with friend Ade Edmonson, followed by Bottom, he also cameoed in Blackadder as Lord Flasheart (see below) and perhaps most famously for people my generation is his portrayal of an imaginary friend in Drop Dead Fred.
His flasheart entrance in blackadder was unrehearsed and unscripted. Rowan Atkinson and Stephen Fry have since told how it was impossible to keep a straight face during the take, saying it was “typical Rik”
He was also a member of the famed “comic strip” alongside friends and colleagues such as Dawn French, Ade Edmonson, Jennifer Saunders and others.
It is not known what caused his untimely death but it’s thought it may be related to a quad bike accident he had in 1998 which left him in a coma for several days.
He was my favourite comedian, as a hard nosed journalist I’ve never shed a tear at a celebritys death but I have to admit I reached for the tissues on this occasion. He was an inspiration to many and one of the few reminders of what real comedy is.
It was rumoured a new series of bottom would be commissioned but this was soon debunked when Rik and Ade informed the public they had no desire to work together again.
See some of his memorable performances below.
What are your favourite Mayall moments?
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