Irish actor and comedian Jon Kenny passed away at the age of 66 due to cardiac arrest in Galway, Ireland. He rose to fame as Cunningham in Mrs. Brown’s Boys.
In 2000, the actor-comedian was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma when he was in his 40s. After making a recovery, he died recently following his battle with cancer. His wife, Margie, confirmed the news of his demise at the Galway Clinic on 15th November.
Kenny reached heights of success when he collaborated with fellow comedian Pat Shortt for their comedy show, D’Unbelievables. His cancer diagnosis brought an end to his time together with his co-actor on the show.
Jon Kenny is survived by his wife, Marguerite, and two children, Leah and Aaron.
How did people offer their condolences to Jon Kenny?
From Ireland's President, Michael D. Higgins, to Pat Shortt, many people have offered their tributes to the legendary actor, Jon Kenny, on his tragic death.
The Irish Times said Irish President Michael D. Higgins paid an emotional tribute to Jon Kenny, lauding his “extraordinary talent.”
"With his impeccable, natural talent for humour and an ability to raise a laugh with just the slightest action, Jon brought so much joy and laughter in his work with Pat Shortt as one half of the D’Unbelievables."
"It was part of the generosity of his character that he spoke about his health issues, and in this he demonstrated his trademark warmth and humour, while providing an inspiration to those suffering from their own illnesses. He will be deeply missed by all those who appreciated his extraordinary talent," the president concluded.
In a heartfelt post on X, Pat Shortt also remembered his dear friend and co-partner for years.
“We are all devastated with the news of Jon Passing and our thoughts are with Margy Aaron and Leah. I was lucky to spend so many years touring with Jon and learning from him. Creating some great shows and videos. Hilarious hours in the rehersal room and playing great tunes. But sitting in the kitchen with Margy and Caroline just having the craic in Lough Gur will never be forgotten. Thanks Jon.”
Other reactions poured in following the break of news,
“Jon Kenny, God rest his soul, had a remarkable talent, and Bridie's Christening was one of his funniest.” One person on X wrote.
“Very sad to hear Jon Kenny has passed. I was reared on D’Unbelievables & will be re-watching these clips now all week. “ya can’t be doin dat” RIP.” Another person tweeted.
“RIP Jon Kenny. His appearance in that Eurovision Father Ted episode is one of the funniest TV moments of my childhood and still is to this day 30 years on.” One more user commented.
“Probably my favourite interview that I’ve produced over the years with Newstalk. He was unbelievably generous, charming as hell, and above all, a right funny man. RIP Jon Kenny.” Someone else tweeted.
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Jon Kenny is known for playing Gerry McCarthy in The Van (1996), Lavatory Man in Angela’s Ashes (1999), Michael Cocheese and Fred Rickwood in Father Ted (1995-96), and Gerry in The Banshees of Inisherin (2022). Father Ted was his first international debut.
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