Rik Mayall (7 March 1958 – 9 June 2014)

One of the funniest comedians of his generation died yesterday in a mysterious manner. Rik Mayall died suddenly while out walking, was one of those who can truly call himself a artistic revolutionary. As part of the ‘alternative comedians’ he displaced the old guard and help launch the careers for those who would dominate our TV and film screen for the next 30 years.

He had a very dynamic partnership with Ade Edmondson, which created characters that students all over Great Britain will constantly channel when getting blindingly drunk. His solo career was just as impressive, especially his depiction of a Tory MP which may not have been based on reality but certainly caught the public imagination when the expenses scandal went nuclear.

He has left a wife and 3 children.

50 Years of BBC Two Comedy – Rik and Ade

Kevin Turvey – The Man Behind The Green Door

The New Statesman A B’Stard Exposed