'Devastated' Pat Shortt pays tribute to comedy partner Jon Kenny after passing

A "devastated" Pat Shortt has paid tribute to his friend and comedy partner, Jon Kenny, after his passing.

The iconic Irish comedian passed away at the age of 66 on Friday evening in hospital in Galway, the Limerick native's family confirmed in a statement to the Limerick Leader.

Kenny was best known as one half of the comedy duo D’Unbelievables alongside Pat Shortt, but was also a poet and a talented actor on stage and screen, having appeared in the Banshees of Inisheerin, Angela’s Ashes and in a number of memorable cameos in Father Ted.

READ MORE: Legendary Irish comedian Jon Kenny dies, aged 66

READ MORE: Taoiseach and Dara Ó Briain lead tributes to 'comedic genius' Jon Kenny

“We are all devastated with the news of Jon Passing and our thoughts are with Margy, Aran and Leah,” Pat wrote in a tribute on social media, alongside a video compilation of moments from their time performing together.

“I was lucky to spend so many years touring with Jon and learning from him.

“Creating some great shows and videos. Hilarious hours in the rehearsal room and playing great tunes. But sitting in the kitchen with Margy and Caroline just having the craic in Lough Gur will never be forgotten. Thanks, Jon.”

Kenny had experienced a number of health battles in recent years, having revealed earlier this year that he was undergoing chemotherapy after cancer was detected on his left lung.

Kenny was successfully treated for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at the height of the D’Unbelievables fame in 2000 and was also diagnosed with heart failure during his chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Taoiseach Simon Harris led tributes to the comedian and actor following the news of his passing.

In a statement, Simon Harris said Kenny was a “gifted performer”.

“It is with the utmost sadness that I have learned of the death of writer, actor and comedian Jon Kenny,” he said.

“Jon had the ability, that very few people possess, to make his audiences crack up laughing with a glance or a single word. Behind that seemingly effortless talent to joke, there was a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker.

“Jon was an interesting and thoughtful person, he had some stunning dramatic performances on stage and on screen and the country is still in stitches from the magic that was D’Unbelievables.

“I was in his native Limerick last night when word of his death came through and to say he is beloved, is a huge understatement. I personally admired the honest and reflective way Jon spoke about illness with Oliver Callan on radio earlier this year. Like everything he did, it was very human and very real.

“To Jon’s family, friends and huge circle of colleagues and peers, I am truly sorry for your loss.”

Tanaiste Micheál Martin said: “Deeply saddened at the passing of Jon Kenny, one of our most iconic actors and comedians.

“Through the D’Unbelievables, and his appearances on stage and on screen, Jon made us smile. He was an entertainer to his core. Deepest sympathies to his wife Margie and family at this time.”

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald described Kenny as a “comedic genius”, adding: “Along with his compadre Pat Shortt – (he) connected with the unique humour and wit of the Irish people in a very special way. He leaves the best legacy – he made people laugh and smile.

“Jon Kenny will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to Jon’s wife Margy, his children, his wide circle of friends, and all who loved him.”

Fellow comedian and performer Dara O Briain posted on X: “Jon was a lovely, lovely man, and a comedy powerhouse.

“D’Unbeliveables opened the door to all the rest of us, doing epic tours and dragging the audience, sometimes bodily, into a mad world of their creation. A unique man, and will be missed.”

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