Sean Lock died from lung cancer after a private battle with the disease, close friend Bill Bailey has confirmed.
The comedian and 8 Out of Ten Cats star’s death was confirmed earlier this week by his agent.
Off The Kerb Productions said Lock “died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family,” at the age of 58.
Fellow comedian Bailey told ITV that the 15 Storeys High star had been diagnosed with “advanced” lung cancer “a few years ago”.
He had been diagnosed with lung cancer a few years ago and it was at the time quite a blow, particularly when it was quite advanced,” he said in an interview with ITV News.
“We’ve tried to make the most of the last few years. We spent a lot of time together and went on trips together. And he’s continued to work.
“He’s amazingly courageous and tough individual who was mentally strong throughout the whole time. I’m just grateful for the time we have had together.”
Speaking about the impact he had on other comedians, the Strictly Come Dancing winner said: “A lot of comics are talking about the fact that he inspired them to become comedians.
He was the one that gave them the strength and courage to carry on as comedians – it’s a tough business.
“He was fearless and determined and that’s what gave them strength.”
Tributes poured in for the much-loved comic and TV star on Wednesday when the sad news was confirmed.
A statement from his agent Off The Kerb Productions read: “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.”
Sean had previously been diagnosed with skin cancer 31 years ago.
The malignant melanoma discovery was made after a one-night stand noticed he had a ‘black, misshapen and crusty’ mark on his back in 1990, Sean said in an interview back in 2010.
