Renowned comedian and Have I Got News For You star Paul Merton has spoken publicly for the first time about the heartbreaking death of his wife, fellow comedian Suki Webster, following a private battle with cancer.
The couple, married for over two decades after meeting at the Comedy Store in the early 1990s, were a beloved fixture in the British comedy scene. Merton described Webster as his "rock" and "soulmate," paying an emotional tribute to her strength and character throughout her illness.
A Private Battle
Merton revealed that Webster had been diagnosed with cancer some time ago but had chosen to keep her illness away from the public eye. He praised her incredible courage and dignity during her treatment, emphasising her desire to maintain normality and privacy for them both.
"She faced it with such bravery," Merton shared, "never complaining and always thinking of others. That was just who she was."
A Partnership Forged in Comedy
The pair first crossed paths in London's comedy circuit, with their shared passion for improvisation and performance creating an instant connection. They married in a private ceremony in 2003 and frequently collaborated professionally, most notably in their improvisational comedy shows that toured both in the UK and internationally.
Friends and colleagues from the entertainment world have flooded social media with tributes, describing Webster as a "wonderfully talented performer" and "a kind and vibrant presence."
Remembering Suki
Beyond her work alongside her famous husband, Webster was an accomplished comedian and actor in her own right. A skilled improviser, she was a central member of the Comedy Store Players and had appeared on various television shows throughout her career.
Paul Merton has requested privacy for himself and Webster's family as they grieve, expressing his profound gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and friends. He concluded his tribute by simply stating: "She made me laugh every day. I will miss her more than words can say."
