Performer passed away in his sleep

Peter Kay tribute act Simon Mark has died unexpectedly in his sleep, leaving his loved ones in ‘massive shock’.

The performer – whose real name is Simon Owens – played more than 100 gigs a year in the guise of the Bolton funnyman.

A message on his Facebook page confirmed his death, reading: ‘Is it with heavy heart that [we report] last night Simon fell asleep and didn’t wake up.’

‘We all know how loved he was by all, and the fantastic memories we all had with him. I know this is a massive shock to everyone and he will be deeply missed. At this moment in time we don’t know how, what happened or why. Fly high Si. We love you.’ 

Mark was due to play in Blackpool tonight and as well as shows across the UK, he had forthcoming dates in Majorca, Italy,  Turkey, Greece, Corfu, Slovenia and the West Indies, among other countries. 

His agent,  Paul Carr of Devil Management, added on Facebook: ‘As one of my best friends & His Management - I can’t even put into words how devastated I am - Love you loads my friend - RIP Si

‘We had some amazing times & memories, even a holiday in January - I’m honoured to have had you as a friend & I will miss our long chats & laughs.’

He leaves a wife, Stacey Owens, who he married in 2019.

Here he is in action:

Published: 14 Feb 2025