Jimmy Cricket asked for last rites twice ‘like an encore’ before dying aged 80
Northern Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket has passed away at the age of 80 following a short illness. His family and peers have paid tribute to his long career in comedy and his positive impact on audiences.
Why it matters
The death of a long-standing cultural figure marks the end of a specific era in British and Irish stand-up comedy.
Comedian Jimmy Cricket asked for the last rites twice , "almost like he asked for an encore", before his death at the age of 80, his son, Fr Frankie Mulgrew, told the Press Association.
The Northern Irish stand-up comedian, born James Mulgrew, died on Monday morning following a short illness, a statement from his family said.
His youngest son, a former comedian who became a priest, Fr Mulgrew, described his father as being "like a light" and said he loved making people laugh.
Comedian Ted Robbins also paid tribute to Cricket, referencing his catchphrase, "there's more", in a post on X.
He said: "I worked with him many times & he was one of the Last Great Comics a unique style, never blue just funny.
"I know he and all his family have a great Christian Faith so maybe The Angels will be saying 'Come here Jimmy - there's more'!"
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in