Comedian Brendan Grace is reported to be fighting for his life after discovering he has cancer while being treated for pneumonia.
The 68-year-old Father Ted star is probably best known to TV viewers for his role as the intimidating Father Stack, the temporary replacement priest for Father Jack and fan of Ted’s Frosties and playing jungle music throughout the night.
The seedy character also memorably uttered the line “I had my fun and that’s all that matters” when pressed to explain his behaviour.
Brendan, who lives in the US, has been forced to cancel a tour of Ireland scheduled for this month and August due to being hospitalised.
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A spokesperson is reported to have 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, who is is still in hospital in Ireland, is expected to remain there for ongoing treatment.
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Shocked fans have been quick express their sympathy about the performer’s illness on social media.
“God protect poor Brendan Grace, my dad’s favourite comedian,” tweeted one.
Another wrote: “Thoughts with Brendan Grace sending him best wishes.”
Wishing Irelands funny man all the best in a speedy recovery xx
Brendan Grace is as funny in person as he is on stage and just as down to earth x pic.twitter.com/8VpMlRBLIL— caitlin murtagh (@caitlinmurt11) July 3, 2019
And a fourth person simply commented: “Father Stack was brilliant.”
As well as stage and TV fame, Brendan also enjoyed a number one hit in Ireland in 1975 with ‘Combine Harvester’, a year before The Wurzels topped the charts with their version in 1976.
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