John Fortune, the comedian best known for his work with John Bird and Rory Bremner on the TV series Bremner, Bird and Fortune, has died at the age of 74.
His agent said the veteran satire comic died peacefully with his wife Emma at his bedside. Vivienne Clore said: "It is with great sadness that I write of the death of John Fortune this morning aged 74.
“He died peacefully with his wife, Emma and dog Grizelle, at his bedside. “A renowned satirist, early work included contributions to Peter Cook’s Establishment club and more latterly his work with long term collaborator, John Bird and Rory Bremner.
“He is survived by his adored wife, Emma and three children.”
Fortune was best known for his sketches alongside fellow comedian John Bird. The pair became household names for The Long Johns skits in which the double-act made witty characterisations of bumbling politicians, military figures and businessmen. In 1997 he won a Bafta for Best Light Entertainment Performance for his work on Rory Bremner, Who Else? alongside Bremner and Bird. He was also nominated four times for Baftas between 1999 and 2003.
Paying tribute, Bremner tweeted: “I’m so sorry to let you know that my friend John Fortune died this morning. Lovely man, dear friend, brilliant & fearless satirist.”
Ms Clore also tweeted: “So formidable of brain and so fearless and generous of heart #RIP John Fortune”.
John Challis, who played Boycie in Only Fools And Horses, acted alongside
Fortune. Paying tribute to his friend, he tweeted: “So sad to hear that John Fortune has died. “I played henchman to his chief villain in Cat’s Eyes and we laughed a lot. Another goodun gone.”
PA