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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Jessica Sansome

Jamal Edwards: Tributes pour in for SBTV founder and son of Loose Women's Brenda following death at 31

Tributes have been pouring in from far and wide following the news of Jamal Edwards' death.

Messages have been shared from the entertainment industry and beyond for SBTV founder after his death at the age of 31.

Jamal is credited for launching the careers of several leading British artists including Ed Sheeran, Dave, and Jessie J - all of whom appeared on his 'SBTV' YouTube channel.

The entrepreneur and music pioneer, who is the son of Loose Women star Brenda Edwards, was awarded an MBE in 2014 for his services to music.

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He was also an ambassador for the Prince's Trust, which helps young people launch their own businesses.

Comedian Mo Gilligan who hosted the Brit Awards earlier this month, called Edwards a "truly humble and blessed soul".

He wrote on Twitter: "Your legacy will live on for years & you’ve inspired a whole generation. Rest easy Jamal Edwards."

Che Wolton Grant, better known by his stage name AJ Tracey, also took to Twitter, writing: "RIP Jamal Edwards, West London legend status."

(PA)

Bafta-winning actor, writer, director, and producer Adam Deacon, known for his leading role in Kidulthood, said he was “heartbroken” about the death.

He said on Twitter: "Today I was on set when I found out the tragic news that my good friend Jamal Edwards had passed away and I’m honestly heartbroken.

"Jamal was one of the nicest, most down to earth and humble men I’ve met in this industry. He always gave me time even when no one else would.

Jamal with the Prince of Wales in 2013 (PA)

"He was an inspiration and what he achieved in life was truly remarkable. Thinking of his friends and family at this devastating time. RIP Jamal Edwards."

Rapper Dave shared a picture of Jamal in the studio and said: "Thank you for everything. Words can’t explain."

Singer and This Morning host Rochelle Humes shared a lengthy tribute on Instagram.

She said: "This one really hits hard. Jamal really was one of the good ones in this industry, he paved the way for so many. Always with such grace and positivity.

"He had everyone's back and would always [go[ the extra mile to show his support."

Rochelle went on to share a photo of the pair at the BAFTA awards, adding: "Always a comfort walking into a room and seeing your face."

Holly Willoughby also shared a tribute on Instagram.

Alongside a photo of Jamal when he picked up his MBE, she wrote: "A life well lived... What incredibly sad news...

"Sending all my love to Jamal's family."

Chelsea FC also took to social media to pay their respects to the Blues superfan.

The football club said: "We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jamal Edwards. An inspiration to many, we’re honoured that he was part of our Chelsea family."

Brenda's Loose Women co-star and friend Denise Welch took to Twitter to post her heartbreaking message.

She wrote: "My heart aches for my friend Brenda. I can’t bear it. Jamal Edwards was a wonderful son and brother."

Denise went on to share a message from Twitter's popular account All On The Board, which shared a quote by Jamal on their board which read: "Be the change you want to see in the world".

Fans of Jamal have also shared their shock and sadness at the news of his passing.

Jamal was a teenager when he launched the youth broadcasting and production film channel SBTV to upload clips he had recorded of his friends performing on the estate where he lived in Acton, west London.

Jamal on Loose Women in November, 2021 (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

In November he appeared on Loose Women alongside his mum to chat about his incredible career and life withhis mum.

Talking about what drove him to success, Jamal said: "My friends weren’t being represented in mainstream media, so that’s what inspired me.

"But obviously my mum’s work ethic inspired me."

He added: "I remember going to pub when she was doing karaoke and doing my homework there.

"She was always working very hard."

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