We are very sad to report that British comedy legend, writer and actor Rik Mayall has passed away at the age of 56. The news was confirmed by his management company, although no cause of death has been released.
Mayall was a star of the small screen in the UK in the 80s and 90s and shot to fame with shows like The Young Ones and The New Statesmen, but is perhaps best know for playing Richie alongside Adrian Edmondson in Bottom which ran from 1991 to 1995. The show also spawned some live spin-offs.
He also had a few big-screen outings, most notably the 1991 comedy Drop Dead Fred and Guest House Paradiso which saw him and Edmundson attempt to recreate the Bottom humour on a larger scale.
Mayall will also be remembered for playing the pompous Lord Flashhart in the BBC comedy series Blackadder and was more recently in an episode of Jonathan Creek and the spokesman for ale brand Bombardier.
A true legend in British comedy and one who will not be forgotten quickly, Rik Mayall is survived by his wife and his three children. The thoughts of everyone on the Flickering Myth writing staff are with his family and friends at this troubling time.
Rest in Peace Rik Mayall. We only hope that there are things to be hit in the head with wherever you are.
Originally published June 9, 2014. Updated April 12, 2018.
