Jon Kenny’s family share heartfelt tribute after he dies following heart attack

Jon Kenny passed away at the age of 66 following a battle with cancer which was ongoing for years.

The comedy legend died on Friday, 15 November and is best known as one half of D'Unbelievables with fellow comedian Pat Shortt.

Following the beloved comedian’s death, tributes have been pouring in from all sides.

Read more: D'Unbelievables star Jon Kenny dies aged 66

Read more: D'Unbelievables star Jon Kenny’s loving marriage to wife Maggie, Limerick home and cancer battle

Jon's family - his wife Margy, son Aran and daughter Laya - confirmed he suffered a cardiac arrest in the early hours of last Sunday, 10 November.

In a statement to The Limerick Leader, his family said: "It is with deep sadness, the family of Jon Kenny, his wife and soul-mate Margy, his son Aran and daughter Laya, wish to announce his passing yesterday, 15th November 2024 at 7.20pm, in hospital in Galway.

"Jon had suffered a cardiac arrest in the early hours of Sunday 10th November at UHG (University Hospital Galway). He did not regain consciousness, but his entire family was by his side during this difficult time.

"Jon grabbed life and shook it as hard as he could, getting every ounce of fun, madness and love from it - his wit, humour, generosity and kindness will outlast his passing. The memories and stories of those who knew him will be his legend."

One of the first tributes to be released on social media was from the Taoiseach Simon Harris, who said he was filled with "utmost sadness".

His statement read: “Jon had the ability, that very few people process, to make his audiences crack up laughing with a glance or a single word.

"Behind the seemingly effortless talent to joke, there was a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker.

"Jo was an interesting and thoughtful person; he has 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 adored 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. May he rest in peace.”

Tanaiste Micheál Martin added: "Deeply saddened at the passing of Jon Kenny, one of our most iconic actors & comedians.

"Through the D'Unbelievables, and his appearances on stage & on screen, Jon made us smile.

"He was an entertainer to his core. Deepest sympathies to his wife Margie & family at this time."

Fans of the Limerick-native are also devastated at the loss and took to social media to share their condolences. One person said: "Rest in peace Jon Kenny, a true legend of Irish comedy. Crime Busters or Away in a Home will never be the same." With another writing “Jon Kenny was an absolute icon”.

The 66-year-old battled cancer a number of times during his career and revealed that his cancer had returned last year and earlier this year, but he stated that treatment was “going well”.

In March, he said: "It came back again now last year, so, I’m just on treatment for that at the moment. But it's good the treatment is working. It's all going well, I'm very lucky. Some shows I'm doing is just to see how my body is going to hold up doing some travel, some work and some live performances.”