Comedian John Fortune, who was best known for the series Bremner, Bird And Fortune, has died aged 74.
The veteran satirist's agent, Vivienne Clore, said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that I write of the death of John Fortune this morning aged 74.
"He died peacefully with his wife, Emma and dog Grizelle, at his bedside.
"A renowned satirist, early work included contributions to Peter Cook's Establishment club and more latterly his work with long term collaborator, John Bird and Rory Bremner.
"He is survived by his adored wife, Emma and three children."
Bremner tweeted: ""I'm so sorry to let you know that my friend John Fortune died this morning.
"Lovely man, dear friend, brilliant & fearless satirist."
Fortune enjoyed a long working relationship with Bird, appearing together in A Series Of Bird's in 1967, The Long Johns in 1995 and in Bremner, Bird And Fortune between 1999 and 2007.
The duo were particularly adept at playing self-satisfied but bumbling establishment figures, such as politicians, bankers and military figures.
Fortune was also a popular character actor in feature films, appearing in movies such as Match Point, The Tailor Of Panama and Calendar Girls.
Posted: Tue Dec 31, 2013 2:13 pm