Stand-up who appeared in Father Ted cancels summer tour

Veteran Irish comedian and singer Brendan Grace has revealed that he has lung cancer.

The 68-year-old received the news while receiving hospital treatment for pneumonia, and has now cancelled his planned  summer tour.

A spokesperson for the star told the Irish Daily Mirror: ‘Brendan Grace has been in hospital for the last four weeks receiving treatment for pneumonia.

‘It has now transpired that he is also suffering from cancer for which he is receiving ongoing care and treatment.

‘His family are a great support to him at this difficult time and respect for their privacy would be much appreciated.’

‘Brendan is still in hospital and will be remaining there for ongoing treatment.’

He has suffered a number of health issues in recent years, having a stroke and contracting diabetes, which made it impossible for him to play guitar on stage.It also led to gangrene and the loss of some of his toes.

Grace is known for his schoolboy character Bottler and for playing Father Fintan Stack in Father Ted, and last year he was the subject of an RTE documentary.

He got an early break after being spotted performing by Frank Sinatra in Dublin, with the American superstar immediately asking him to support him in London.

Here he is in action, performing his wedding speeches routine.

Published: 3 Jul 2019