Tributes to Irish comedian Jon Kenny who starred in Father Ted
Picture credit: Tommy Tiernan Show on RTÉ.
The actor, pictured on The Tommy Tiernan Show on RTÉ One in June 2019, was undergoing treatment for cancer and heart issues.
The Taoiseach has honored the memory of Jon Kenny, the Irish writer, comedian, and actor, following his passing.
He gained widespread recognition for his performances alongside Pat Shortt in the comedy act D'Unbelievables.
The 66-year-old had been undergoing care for both cancer and heart problems.
The star from County Limerick had a notable list of screen appearances, including roles in Father Ted, The Van, the 1998 adaptation of Les Misérables, Angela's Ashes, and The Banshees of Inisherin, where he collaborated once again with Pat Shortt.
Photo credit: Getty Images
Taoiseach Simon Harris remarked that Jon has delivered some "incredible and compelling performances" both in theatre and on film.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing about Jon's passing. He noted that Jon had a rare talent—one that not many have—the ability to make people burst into laughter with just a look or a few words.
Harris commented in a statement, "Beneath the appearance of effortless humor, there was a talented artist and a profoundly reflective mind."
Jon was a fascinating and reflective individual, known for his remarkable and captivating performances both on stage and in films. The nation continues to laugh and enjoy the brilliance of D'Unbelievables.
Kenny was a celebrated singer, poet, and solo comedy artist.
"Pure Entertainer At Heart"
In a heartfelt homage, Deputy Prime Minister Micheál Martin referred to Kenny as "one of our most celebrated actors and comedians."
Mr. Martin expressed his profound sorrow over Jon Kenny's death in a statement.
"With the D'Unbelievables and his performances both live and on screen, Jon brought joy to our lives. At his essence, he was a true entertainer."
In the late 1980s, Jon teamed up with his comedic partner Pat Shortt to create the act known as D'Unbelievables in Limerick.
Their drawings depicted everyday life in the Republic of Ireland.
One of their most unforgettable moments had them playing two clumsy Garda (Irish police) officers seeking assistance from the public on a show called Crimebusters.
Pat portrayed Garda Tom Walsh, while Jon took on the role of Garda PJ Moloney.
The actor made a notable guest appearance as a loud and entertaining TV host in the Eurovision episode of Channel 4's Father Ted, which helped him gain recognition worldwide.
Photo credit: Getty Images
Jon took the stage at the Gay Byrne and Friends Fundraiser held at Vicar Street in Dublin in March 2003.
Jon received a diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2000 when he was in his 40s, which marked the end of his partnership with the D'Unbelievables.
During an appearance on The Oliver Callan Show on RTÉ Radio 1 in April, he mentioned that the diagnosis forced him to "stay inactive."
"During a period of two years, I underwent various types of treatment," he explained.
For two years, I went through that experience, and with God's help, I received a stem cell transplant at James's hospital. They took care of everything, and I was able to continue on for some time after that.
Nonetheless, he informed Oliver Callan that his cancer had come back.
"It returned to me once more; it reemerged around three or four years ago," he mentioned.
"I recently underwent surgery to have a portion of my left lung removed, and thankfully, everything went well."
"I’ve been fortunate lately because my chemotherapy is effective, so I’ve been doing well, you know?"
"Amidst everything happening, just for a laugh – you know how life can be busy? – I ended up experiencing heart failure after my second round of chemotherapy."
"Add that into the combination, you know? It's a great blend of elements to work with."
In addition to his work in television and movies, Jon was also highly esteemed as a performer on stage.
He took part in John B. Keane's play The Matchmaker, Oliver Goldsmith's She Stoops to Conquer at The Abbey Theatre, and Katie Holly's dark comedy Crowman, which was a one-man show where he played ten different roles.
