Ian Royce: Ant and Dec pay tribute after Britain’s Got Talent warm-up act dies
Written by News on 02/09/2020
Celebrities have paid tribute after the comedian Ian Royce, known for being a warm-up act on Britain’s Got Talent, died from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.
The comedian, 51, died on Tuesday surrounded by his friends and family, according to a statement on his official Twitter account.
Britain’s Got Talent presenters Ant and Dec have paid tribute and described him as an “integral part” of the team.
They posted on Twitter: “We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce.
“He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X.”
Royce worked for other programmes including The X Factor, Piers Morgan’s Life Stories, Loose Women and This Morning.
Piers Morgan wrote on Tuesday night: “RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce.
“Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry. Worked with him on BGT, AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne.
“Thanks for all the laughs mate.”
A statement on Royce’s personal Twitter account read on Tuesday: “It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.
“He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family. He put up a good fight but is in a better place now.”
Royce had previously revealed he was an alcoholic and shared an appeal online to raise funds for rehab.
In September last year, he tagged stars including Ant and Dec, Simon Cowell and Robbie Williams, saying: “I am so grateful to so many for saving my life…..”
He posted in October: “To rehab i do go… Thank you so much to everyone for your help… Pucker up @PrioryGroup… I’m on my way…”
(c) Sky News 2020: Ian Royce: Ant and Dec pay tribute after Britain’s Got Talent warm-up act dies
