Actor and comedian Ewen MacIntosh, best known for his role as “Big Keith” in the original UK version of hit TV show The Office, has died at the age of 50.
The British mockumentary’s creator Ricky Gervais led the tributes, calling his co-star “an absolute original”.
“Extremely sad news,” the comedian said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
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“The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP.”
MacIntosh also starred with Gervais in comedy series After Life but was best known as scotch-egg-loving accountant Keith Bishop in The Office.
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MacIntosh’s management announced the news of the star’s passing on Wednesday morning (6.15pm AEDT), following a series of private health battles.
https://twitter.com/rickygervais/status/1760237935964590478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
“With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen MacIntosh,” JustRight Management said in a statement.
“His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home.
“There will be a private cremation for family & close friends soon & a celebratory memorial later in the year.”
MacIntosh died in Darlington, County Durham, in England but his cause of death is not yet known.
The star had previously shared photos in and out of hospital with his followers on social media.
His most recent credited role was in Nightmare on 34th Street last year. He previously starred in Little Britain, The Lobster and Big Fat Gypsy Gangster.