Piers Morgan and Ant and Dec have paid tribute to comedian Ian Royce, who died yesterday (September 1).
Ian, 51, who worked on Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor, sadly died after suffering from “severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.”
What happened to Ian Royce?
Ian’s official Twitter page broke the sad news to fans, written by his daughter Roxanne.
She wrote: “It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.”
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In addition, she said: “He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family.
“He put up a good fight but is in a better place now. Roxanne.”
Meanwhile, it wasn’t long before many of his celeb pals paid tribute to their friend and colleague.
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. (@officialroycey) He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X
— antanddec (@antanddec) September 1, 2020
RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce.
Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry. Worked with him on @BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate. pic.twitter.com/gmqfi88fI8— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 1, 2020
So sad to hear the sad news of @officialroycey who was our warm up man and friend on @bgt .. just an absolute tragedy. Mine and my family’s thoughts go out to Roxy his lovely daughter 🙏🏻
— Amanda Holden (@AmandaHolden) September 1, 2020
Can’t believe Roycey has passed away. A gent. And a big shoulder to cry on on XFact. RIP Roycey x
— Rylan Clark-Neal (@Rylan) September 1, 2020
What did Ian Royce’s pals say?
Ant and Dec were the first to send a message of condolence.
“We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce,” the duo tweeted. “He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years.
“Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X.”
Meanwhile, GMB presenter Piers Morgan also sent a message.
“RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce,” he said. “Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry.
“Worked with him on @BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows.”
In addition, he said: “Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate.”
Addiction problems
In recent times, Ian battled addiction problems and survived a brain aneurysm.
Meanwhile, last year, Geordie stars Ant and Dec donated £5,000 to his rehab costs.
After that, Ian then updated fans on his condition after the generous donation.
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He said: “I just wanted to let you all know that my first 28 days of treatment have come to an end.
“I will now being going abroad for the next three months to continue my treatment and really work on me and the issues that have been buried deep for 40 years.”
Meanwhile, aside from issues with alcohol issues, he also revealed he sought help for ‘sex and love addictions’.
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