Jimmy Cricket, the beloved Northern Irish comedian famous for his mismatched wellington boots and catchphrase 'and there's more', has died aged 80. His family announced that he passed away on Monday morning in hospital after a short illness, surrounded by loved ones.
Family's heartfelt tribute
In a statement, his family said: 'Our beloved Jimmy passed away this morning after a short illness. He spent his last few days surrounded by his family, love, laughter and songs. Jimmy brought so much laughter and happiness to countless audiences in his career over the years. Whether on stage, screen or radio, or if you met him in person as well. But that was nothing to the happiness he gave to his family.'
They described him as 'a devoted husband to May for fifty two years' and 'a wonderful dad to his four children and very silly grandad indeed to his four grandchildren.' The statement added: 'He was our greatest champion and loved us all loudly. He also just loved people and he absolutely loved being a stand up comedian. What a life he lived.'
Final moments filled with laughter
His son Frankie revealed that even in his final hours, his father remained in character. Frankie said his dad asked for the last rites twice, 'almost like he asked for an encore.' He described his father as 'like a light' and said he loved making people laugh.
The family's statement highlighted his enduring spirit: 'Forever our clown, he was cracking jokes to the wonderful NHS staff and to us all, right until the end. His courage, dignity and positivity through all he endured was inspirational.'
Career highlights
Jimmy Cricket, born James Mulgrew in Cookstown, Northern Ireland, rose to fame in the 1970s. He became a familiar face on British television, appearing on the Royal Variety Show, The Good Old Days, Bullseye, and This Is Your Life. His stage name originated from his early days performing at Butlin's and Pontins holiday camps, where he developed a comedy act based on an 'Irish country boy' character.
Legacy of laughter
His family ended their tribute with a nod to his Catholic faith and his catchphrase: 'We were going to end by using his famous catchphrase and say, 'There's no More'. But Jimmy was a man of great faith and a Papal Knight of the Catholic Church. He believed that death is not the end and was looking forward to eternity, so really…And there's more.'
Jimmy Cricket had recently announced he was taking a 'little sabbatical for health reasons' but hoped to 'catch up' with fans at his stand-up shows later in the year. He is survived by his wife May, their four children, and four grandchildren.
