Ian Royce Dies At Age 51: The Hidden Talent Behind Shows Like ‘AGT’, ‘BGT’, ‘X-Factor And ‘American Idol’
ITV Reading Time: 2 minutes
In sad news, Ian Royce — who worked as a warm-up comedian on both Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor — has passed away at age 51. The death was confirmed in a post on Ian’s official Twitter account.
Ian was beloved by his co-workers on the ITV shows and recently attended rehab with the help of Ant & Dec, as well as Simon Cowell. Read on to find out what Ant & Dec had to say about Ian’s passing.
‘BGT’ Warm-Up Act Ian Royce Passes Away
According to his Twitter account, Ian passed away on Tuesday “from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.” The post added that he “was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family.” In closing, the post reads, “He put up a good fight but is in a better place now.”
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We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. (@officialroycey) He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X
— antanddec (@antanddec) September 1, 2020
Shortly after Ian’s death was announced, BGT hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly released a Twitter statement of their own. “We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce,” they wrote, calling him “an integral part of the #BGT team for many years.” They sent thoughts to Ian’s daughter Roxy and the rest of his family.
Last year, Ant & Dec donated to a fundraiser to help Ian attend rehab for alcoholism. Ian was also being treated for a brain injury sustained while he was under the influence. BGT judge Simon Cowell also reportedly donated.
Ian Royce Attends Rehab For Alcoholism And Sex Addiction
Last year, Ian updated fans, saying he had competed a 28-day stint in rehab at The Priory, and would be continuing treatment abroad for three months. He added that he was also seeking help for sex addiction.
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“As well as my alcohol addiction I have also surrendered to my sex and love addictions stemming from my past which have affected my relationships greatly,” Ian wrote. “I am committed to working on all of the above to be a better person to me and to others.”
In February of this year, Ian opened up about struggling with depression. He wrote, “It’s been a long week, in fact a long year… I’m sat at rock bottom and there is only one way now and that is up… to a light.”
Our thoughts are with Ian Royce’s loved ones at this difficult time.
