Comedian Gareth Richards, best known for his work as a co-host on Frank Skinner’s show, has tragically passed away following a car accident. Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of the beloved funnyman, who had a gift for making people laugh with his quick wit and charming personality. In this article, we take a closer look at Richards’ life and legacy, while also exploring the circumstances that led to his untimely death. Whether you were a die-hard fan or simply curious about this talented performer, we invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Gareth Richards, a true comedy genius who will be sorely missed.
Comedian Gareth Richards, 41, died on Good Friday, 7th April 2023, in a car accident. Richards had sustained serious brain injuries from the accident that took place on 27th March 2023. His wife, Laura, confirmed his death through a Facebook post that read, “It is with great sadness that I have to share that Gareth Richards passed away on Friday 7th April (Good Friday) at 6.30 pm… The latest scan revealed that the extent of the damage was so severe that they would have to remove all of the supportive medications and allow him to be at peace… There will be details of the funeral and other ways to remember Gareth to follow, as I know that he was well-loved. At the moment, the grief is a lot to cope with. Thank you all for your support and kindness.”
Gareth Richards had a great career in comedy, beginning his journey in 2004. He co-hosted with Frank Skinner and Emily Dean when The Frank Skinner Show first aired. He later supported Skinner on two of his comedy tours in 2014 and 2020. Richards was named a finalist in the Hackney Empire New Act of the Year 2007 competition and was also the runner-up in the Amused Moose Laugh-Off in 2007. Richards showcased his first solo stand-up comedy act, “Stand Up Between Songs,” at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2010, for which he was nominated for the Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer prize. He performed every year at the festival and was due to perform his tenth solo show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2023.
The news of Gareth’s death hit the comedy world hard, and many comedians flooded Twitter with tributes after the news broke. The celebrated author and comedian Adam Kay tweeted, “Indescribably sad about Gareth Richards. It is an almost unique eulogy for a comedian that every single person they met says what a kind, sweet person they were. Rest in peace my friend.” Stand-up comic and regular panelist on the popular British television programme Mock the Week, Angela Barnes, also tweeted, “The news we’ve all been dreading has come that @garethrichards has left us. He was so funny and, above all, so kind and gentle. Love and strength to his family and friends and his comedy family who are all reeling from this. Rest in peace Gareth xxx.”
Richards was known for his unique and refreshing style of comedy, and his sudden death was a huge loss to the industry. Many comedians had spoken highly of Richards, and his loss was felt by all. He was a beloved colleague to Frank Skinner, who fought to hold back his tears as he announced Richards’ passing on his radio show. Jason Manford, a fellow comedian and friend, posted on Twitter, “Myself and the whole team at @ManfordsComedy are devastated to hear the news that Gareth Richards passed away today. He was a wonderfully inventive & funny comedian but more importantly a kind & thoughtful man. Our thoughts are with his wife & children at this time.”
Gareth’s death is a great loss to the comedy world, as well as to his family and friends. He was praised for his gentle and kind nature, which was a rarity in the industry, and his passing left those who knew or worked with him deeply saddened. Comedians and fans alike will remember him for his unique sense of humour, and his contribution to the industry will never be forgotten.
In conclusion, the news of Gareth Richards’ passing has left a void in the entertainment industry, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and fans. He was a talented comedian, writer, and musician who left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Gareth will be remembered for his infectious humor, quick-witted banter, and legacy of making people laugh. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. We will always remember the joy that Gareth brought to our lives and the countless laughs he shared with us. Rest in peace, Gareth Richards.
