A star writer behind some of the BBC’s best loved comedy shows has died ‘suddenly’ aged just 47 years old, as those that worked with him release a heartbreaking statement
A BBC writer who contributed to some of the network’s best-loved comedy shows has died aged 47. Steve Burge’s ‘sudden’ death was announced by his representatives.
Before his death, Steve wrote for programmes such as Would I Lie To You?, Brassic and 8 Out Of 10 Cats, as well as creating some material for Shooting Stars, It’s Ulrika and The Jon Culshaw Show.
His representatives, United Agents, said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our client, Steve Burge. Steve was a gifted writer, known for his work on Still Up, The Seekers and Would I Lie To You? Over the weekend, we lost a wonderful talent, but also someone who was widely admired and respected across the industry.
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“His most recent sketch, The Bank Job for Comic Relief, was a huge success and a testament to his creativity and skill. Steve will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Fans of his work also shared tributes to him. One said: “So sorry to hear this sad news. My condolences to his family and friends.” Another said: “This is such shocking news – I can’t believe it. I’m so very sad to hear this. He’ll be missed.”
A third commented: “Thoughts and prayers to his family and also to the United Agents team.” A fourth said: “I know that I didn’t know him but it’s so sad and my condolences to his family and friends.”
No cause of death was revealed for Steve. The writer was born in Wickford, Essex, in September 1978 and died on 24 April. Steve’s final work, The Bank Job for Comic Relief, was a short sketch for this year’s Red Nose Day.
It featured This Morning co-hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary as themselves – with a twist. Intent on raising money for Comic Relief, the pair decided to rob a bank in London.
But their robbery was interrupted by another would-be thief, Shona McGarty, who had the same idea. They were interrupted by Chris McCausland, who mistook Dermot for Richard Madeley, Alison for Adele and Shona for Dame Judi Dench.
The other potential thieves were Stephen Mulhern, wearing a mask of his own face, Natalie Cassidy, Gladiators’ Shelli McCoy (aka Sabre), and Niko Omilana, who brought sandwiches.
As the infighting started between the star-studded robbery gang, the police arrived to arrest the group, including Idris Elba, as his iconic character John Luther. Except Luther was there to rob the bank too!
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
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