Mock the Week star Ed Byrne's brother Paul has died aged 45.
Comic Ed paid tribute today, saying: "Paul Byrne was a lot of things to a lot of people. A talented comedy director and stand up fixer, he was loved by so many.
"But to me, he was my pain-in-the-arse little brother and I will miss him so much. RIP Paul Byrne 1977-2022."
The comedy director had faced a lengthy battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma after being diagnosed at the start of the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013.
At the time, comedians including John Bishop, Phill Jupitus and Jason Byrne fundraised in his honour.
Paul's agent confirmed the news in a statement.
It said: "After a short illness we are extremely saddened to confirm Paul Byrne has passed away at 45.
"Paul was an exceptional comedy director and worked on breakthrough and seminal shows for some of the UK's finest comedy talent. His knowledge and understanding of stand-up was unsurpassed as was his ability to help comedians discover their voice.
"The list of shows he worked on that were nominated or won awards both in Edinburgh and abroad was extensive, and spoke to his incredible gift at developing talent."
It added: "Away from the stage and behind the camera Paul was invaluable on the set of multiple TV shows. His calm and assured presence and creative input gave talent the confidence they needed to give the best possible performance.
"He was talent wrangler on ITV's Show Me the Funny, as ever, helping the comics on their journey, He was intrinsic to the success of Dara O Briain's Go 8 Bit and he worked extensively on Jamali Maddix's Vice show Hate Thy Neighbour both as a writer and producer.
"Hate Thy Neighbour went on to win critical acclaim and be nominated for a Digital Broadcast Award.
His former management tweeted: "We are all heartbroken by the passing of our good friend and client Paul Byrne. It was a privilege to have known Paul and we will cherish the time we got to spend in his company. He was an exceptional comedy director and helped craft some of the most boundary-pushing innovative and hilarious comedy shows of the last decade.
"The support and guidance he gave comedians (and their agents) went beyond just their artwork, he helped them discover their voices.
"He had a sparkle and talent that was utterly infectious and he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace you wonderful human."
Meanwhile, comedian Omid Djalili wrote: "Very sorry to hear of the passing of comedy director Paul Byrne and younger brother of @MrEdByrne - a very dear soul with whom I had many laughs at various Edinburgh festivals. He was 45 years old."
