Dawn French has paid a heartbreaking tribute following the death of her 'beautiful' friend of 30 years, celebrity publicist Neil Reading, who died at the age of 56 after a short illness.
Neil Reading's Career and Clients
Reading was the founder of Neil Reading PR, launching his agency in 1992. He specialized in entertainment and lifestyle PR, working with a string of stars including Monty Python co-creator John Cleese, Comic Relief co-founder Lenny Henry, comedian Jason Manford, and the late Victoria Wood. He also helped bring West End productions such as High Society, Only Fools And Horses, and Fawlty Towers – The Play to life.
Reading is survived by his wife Claire and daughter Rosa.
Dawn French's Instagram Tribute
French took to Instagram with a picture of Reading, posting a lengthy message about their friendship and his impact on her career. She wrote: 'This beautiful chap Neil Reading @neilreadingpr was my press representative and fierce protector. We worked together to promote work stuff for 30 odd years or more.. but along the way, we forged a profound friendship, based on trust & respect.'
She continued: 'He was there for me and my family in many tricky moments and he helped me in ways I will never forget. We shared tons of laughs and I learned so much from him… (although I didn’t ever manage to master the filter button). Most of all though, his intelligent & measured calm was a salve to my fears. We never EVER had a conversation either on the phone or in person, that didn’t include his utter love for his beautiful wife and beloved daughter.'
French added: 'NOTHING mattered more, and he constantly reminded me about what really counts. He balanced me. He guarded me. He was massively respected and loved. I can’t quite believe I’m referring to him in the past. Not sure how to be without him. Heartbroken. Bye Neil. You darlin man.'
Other Tributes
Jason Manford said that 'describing Neil as his PR manager does not come close to describing what he meant to him'. He told The Sun: 'He was a trusted friend of almost 20 years, a confidant and one of the most loyal, noble and brilliant men I have ever known.'
Comedian John Bishop added: 'Neil was a true gentleman. He was too humble to realise how much he meant to people and I know he will be greatly missed.'
John Cleese described Neil as 'a very kind, protective, sensible and caring man, who looked after his clients with great skill' and said he will 'miss him very much'.
