Comedian Jimmy Cricket dies aged 80 following short illness

Comedian Jimmy Cricket, whose real name was James Joseph Mulgrew, has died at the age of 80 following a short illness, his family confirmed. The Northern Irish entertainer, known for his signature wellington boots, bowler hat, and family-friendly humor, spent his final days surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement released by his family. His passing marks the end of a career that spanned decades, during which he became a beloved figure in British comedy.

Cricket, born in 1945 in Cookstown, County Tyrone, began his career in the 1960s as a Redcoat at Butlins, later transitioning to the comedy club circuit. His breakthrough came in the 1970s, when he won LWT’s Search for a Star talent contest and secured his own ITV show, as well as a radio series on BBC Radio 2. Over the years, he became a staple of British entertainment, appearing on programs such as *And There’s More*, *Bullseye*, and the Royal Variety Performance. His stage persona—marked by rolled-up trousers, a tailcoat, and a battered bowler hat—earned him a devoted following, as did his catchphrase, “And there’s more!”

His family described him as a “force for joy” and “forever our clown,” highlighting his resilience and humor even in his final days. “He was cracking jokes to the wonderful NHS staff and to us all, right until the end,” the statement read. The family emphasized his deep faith, noting that he was a Papal Knight of the Catholic Church and believed in an afterlife. “We were going to end by using his famous catchphrase and say: ‘There’s no more,’” they wrote. “But Jimmy was a man of great faith… so really… And there’s more.”

Cricket’s career was defined by his clean, accessible comedy, which avoided profanity and focused on wordplay and physical humor. He collaborated with fellow entertainers such as The Osmonds, Brotherhood of Man, and The Krankies, and was celebrated for his ability to connect with audiences of all ages. His family paid tribute to his role as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, describing him as “our greatest champion” and “a wonderful dad to his four children and very silly grandad indeed to his four grandchildren.”

Fellow comedians and fans expressed their grief, with Tim Vine recalling a memorable encounter with Cricket. “I have a great memory being at his home and he said: ‘Do you want to hear my new song?’ I said: ‘Of course.’ He then sang it to me live while dancing about in front of me. I thought: ‘I hope I’m like this when I’m older,’” Vine wrote on social media. Ted Robbins, another comedian, praised Cricket’s “unique style, never blue just funny,” adding that his faith and humor left a lasting legacy.

Cricket’s final public statement, posted on his website earlier this year, hinted at his health struggles. He wrote that he was taking a “little sabbatical for health reasons” but planned to return for a series of autumn 2026 shows. His family’s statement confirmed he had begun treatment but did not specify the nature of his illness. The comedian’s death comes just weeks after he announced his temporary withdrawal from the spotlight, leaving fans and colleagues to reflect on his impact.

Throughout his life, Cricket balanced his public persona with a private devotion to family. He was married to May for 52 years and is survived by four children and four grandchildren. His legacy endures in the laughter he brought to millions, as well as the enduring spirit captured in his final words: “And there’s more.”