BBC comedy writer Steve Burge has died suddenly at the age of 47, his representatives have announced. Burge contributed to popular shows including Would I Lie To You?, Brassic and 8 Out Of 10 Cats, as well as writing material for Shooting Stars, It's Ulrika and The Jon Culshaw Show.
His agency, United Agents, said in a statement: 'We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our client, Steve Burge. Steve was a gifted writer, known for his work on Still Up, The Seekers and Would I Lie To You? Over the weekend, we lost a wonderful talent, but also someone who was widely admired and respected across the industry.'
Burge's most recent project was The Bank Job, a sketch for Comic Relief that aired during this year's Red Nose Day. The sketch featured Alison Hammond, Dermot O'Leary, Shona McGarty, Chris McCausland, Stephen Mulhern, Natalie Cassidy, Gladiators star Shelli McCoy, Niko Omilana and Idris Elba reprising his role as John Luther.
Fans paid tribute online, with one writing: 'So sorry to hear this sad news. My condolences to his family and friends.' Another said: 'This is such shocking news – I can't believe it. I'm so very sad to hear this. He'll be missed.'
Born in Wickford, Essex, in September 1978, Burge died on 24 April. No cause of death has been disclosed.
