RIP musical comic and reality TV star

Musical comedian and reality TV show star Jason Wood has died at the age of 38.

The performer – known for his imposing voice and uncannily accurate musical impressions – reached a wider audience when he appeared on the first series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, alongside Natasha Kaplinski. He held the dubious honour of being the first person ever voted off the show.

No details are yet known about the cause of his death on Saturday, although an official statement is expected on Monday.

Fellow comics have been paying tributes to him on the internet. Flight Of The Conchords star Rhys Darby said: ‘Your wonderful humour and stunning voice will echo in the halls of hilarity for ever on... You were one of the good ones.’

Jim Jeffries said: 'Just cried about the passing of Jason Wood, such a great guy. I will really miss him.'

Omid Djalii said he was a 'lovely man' while Bob Mills said: 'Absolutely grief-stricken at this news. The sweetest man. An amazing performer and an absolute joy to work with. We have lost a giant talent. My heart goes out to his family.'

Wood was a regular headliner on the British comedy circuit and performed in Holland, Germany, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and the USA. He also represented England at a UN comedy festival held in South Africa.

He had been due to perform a burlesque cabaret night at London's Cafe De Paris last night, and recently returned from performing on a Caribbean cruise.

He made his Edinburgh debut in 2001, and in 2006, his Fringe show received a damning one-star review by The Scotsman newspaper, but rather than be disheartened he proudly produced flashes for his posters saying: 'A star – The Scotsman.’

In 2008, he starred in Living TV's The Underdog Show, which revolved around dog training, while his previous appearances include BBC One primetime show 29 Minutes Of Fame and the hidden camera show, Spy TV

There was no comment from either Wood's family nor management last night.

Here he is in action:

Published: 20 Feb 2010