Comedian Jimmy Cricket dies aged 80
Comedian Jimmy Cricket has died at the age of 80 after a short illness, his family announced in a social media statement. Born James Joseph Mulgrew in Cookstown, County Tyrone, in 1945, he rose from working as a Butlins Redcoat and on the comedy club circuit in the 1970s and 1980s to become a household name, winning LWT's Search for a Star contest and later hosting his own ITV show and a BBC Radio 2 series. His death has prompted tributes from fellow comedians who praised his humility, warmth and distinctive comic style.
The family said he had remained cheerful to the end, "cracking jokes to the wonderful NHS staff" and surrounded by love, laughter and songs, describing him as a lifelong "force for joy". Cricket was instantly recognisable for his onstage outfit of a battered bowler hat, tails and wellington boots marked "R" and "L", and for catchphrases including "there's more". Tributes came from comedians including John Linehan, Tim Vine and Ted Robbins, who all recalled his kindness, modesty and unique, family-friendly comic style.
- Comedian Jimmy Cricket has died aged 80 after a short illness
- Northern Ireland-born star known for ITV show and catchphrases
- Fellow comedians paid tribute to his humility and humour
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Jimmy Cricket was the stage name of James Joseph Mulgrew, a comedian born in Cookstown, County Tyrone, in 1945. He began performing on the Butlins holiday camp circuit and in comedy clubs before winning a televised talent contest, Search for a Star.
His bowler hat, long coat and wellington boots became part of his act, alongside catchphrases such as “there’s more”. He went on to present television and radio programmes and was known for comedy suitable for family audiences.
Cricket was a familiar figure in British and Irish entertainment for decades. Tributes from fellow comedians have highlighted his influence on the comedy circuit and the warmth audiences associated with his performances.