‘One of the Last Greats’: Beloved Comedian Jimmy Cricket Dies Aged 80 as Heartfelt Tributes Celebrate a Lifetime of Laughter

Britain is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved entertainers after legendary comedian Jimmy Cricket passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that brought laughter to generations.

The Northern Irish comedy icon, born James Mulgrew, died on Monday following a short illness, his family confirmed in an emotional statement. Surrounded by his loved ones in his final days, Jimmy reportedly spent his last moments exactly as he had lived his life — sharing jokes, laughter and songs with those closest to him.

A Comedy Legend Who Made Britain Smile

Jimmy Cricket first stepped onto the stage as a teenager performing in holiday camps before becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable comedians.

With his trademark wellington boots worn on the wrong feet, gentle family-friendly humour and unforgettable catchphrase, “And there’s more!”, he quickly became a household name.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Jimmy entertained millions through television, radio, theatre and live performances. His own television programme, And There’s More, cemented his place among Britain’s comedy greats and introduced his unique style to audiences across the country.

Unlike many comedians of his era, Jimmy became known for clean, uplifting comedy that appealed to every generation.

Family Pays Emotional Tribute

Announcing his passing, Jimmy’s family shared a deeply moving tribute celebrating not only his extraordinary career but the devoted family man behind the famous smile.

“Our beloved Jimmy passed away this morning after a short illness. He spent his last few days surrounded by his family, love, laughter and songs.”

They described him as a man who dedicated his life to making others happy, saying he brought joy to audiences everywhere he performed—but insisted nothing compared to the happiness he gave his own family.

Jimmy is survived by his wife May, whom he had been married to for 52 years, along with their four children and four grandchildren.

The statement continued:

“He was our greatest champion and loved us all loudly. He also just loved people and he absolutely loved being a stand-up comedian. What a life he lived.”

Even while seriously ill, Jimmy never lost the humour that defined him.

According to his family, he continued entertaining NHS staff and relatives with jokes until the very end, facing his illness with remarkable courage, optimism and dignity.

Faith That Never Wavered

Jimmy was also honoured as a Papal Knight of the Catholic Church, and his Christian faith remained central throughout his life.

His family said he viewed death not as an ending but as the beginning of something greater, finding comfort in the beliefs that had guided him for decades.

They closed their tribute with a touching reference to the phrase that fans will forever associate with him:

“And there’s more.”

Tributes Flood In for “One of the Last Greats”

Following the announcement, heartfelt tributes poured in from fellow entertainers, friends and fans who remembered Jimmy not only for his comedy but for his kindness.

One longtime friend wrote on social media:

“Terribly sad news about Jimmy Cricket! Such a lovely, sweet, gentle man and one of the last of that era.”

The Rollercoaster Club of Great Britain also honoured the comedian, remembering his appearances at Blackpool events and thanking him for decades of unforgettable laughter.

Actor and comedian Ted Robbins shared an emotional tribute, describing Jimmy as:

“One of the Last Great Comics… a unique style, never blue, just funny.”

He added that Jimmy’s strong Christian faith gave comfort to those mourning him, ending with a heartfelt reference to his famous catchphrase.

A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten

Jimmy Cricket’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in British entertainment history.

For more than 50 years, he proved that comedy didn’t need controversy or shock value to bring people together. His warmth, humility and unmistakable sense of fun made him a favourite with audiences of all ages.

As fans continue sharing memories of the man behind the oversized boots and infectious smile, one thing is certain: Jimmy Cricket’s laughter, kindness and timeless humour will live on for generations.

And, as his family beautifully reminded the world…

“There’s more.”