Comedian Jon Kenny Dies at 66, Leaving Fans in Shock
Beloved comedian and actor Jon Kenny, known for his role in the iconic Irish duo D’Unbelievables, passed away on November 15, 2024, at the age of 66. He had been battling cancer and heart failure this year.
Family Confirms His Peaceful Passing
Kenny’s family issued a heartfelt statement through The Limerick Leader. “Jon passed away at 7:20 p.m. on November 15 at University Hospital Galway (UHG) surrounded by his family,” they said. His wife, Margy, and children, Aran and Laya, were by his side during his final moments.
“Jon had suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday, November 10. He never regained consciousness, but his family remained with him during this difficult time.”
They fondly remembered him as a man who lived life to its fullest. “Jon grabbed life and shook it as hard as he could,” the family noted. “His wit, humor, generosity, and kindness will outlast his passing.”
A Career Marked by Laughter and Legacy
Born in County Limerick, Kenny achieved widespread fame in the 1990s with D’Unbelievables, playing off-the-wall Irish characters alongside Pat Shortt. Their comedic chemistry made them household names in Ireland and beyond.
Kenny’s talent also shone on screen. He appeared in popular productions like Father Ted, Angela’s Ashes, and The Banshees of Inisherin, where he reunited with Shortt. Animated films like Song of the Sea and Wolfwalkers further showcased his versatility.
On stage, Kenny captivated audiences with roles in The Matchmaker and She Stoops to Conquer. His one-man show, Crowman, demonstrated his mastery as a performer, portraying 10 different characters.
A Fighter Against Illness
Kenny’s life was not without challenges. Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2000, he faced years of treatment, including a stem cell transplant. He recovered but later faced relapses of cancer, which eventually required the removal of part of his left lung.
In recent years, Kenny battled multiple health issues, including cancer reoccurrence and heart failure. Despite his struggles, he maintained an inspiring outlook. “You put the blinkers on and keep going,” he said during a radio interview earlier this year.
D’Unbelievables: The Golden Years of Comedy
Kenny and Shortt created comedy magic with D’Unbelievables. Their rise from performing in small venues to selling out months-long runs in Vicar Street and The Tivoli was extraordinary. Kenny reflected on this success with gratitude. “We were lucky to have it,” he said. “It kept growing and growing.”
Their work brought laughter to countless fans, with sketches capturing the quirks of Irish life. Kenny’s humor, often self-deprecating, was relatable and heartfelt.
Tributes Pour in for a Comedy Icon
Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to share their condolences. Pat Shortt described Kenny as “a comedic genius and a kind soul.” Fellow performers praised his ability to bring joy even during personal battles.
One fan wrote, “Jon Kenny wasn’t just a comedian; he was a storyteller. His ability to make us laugh and cry will never be forgotten.”
A Final Reflection on Life and Laughter
Kenny once admitted he had never worked a “normal job” and had no formal training for his craft. “I’ve been bluffing my way through life,” he joked in April. Despite these claims, his career showed immense talent and dedication.
As his family said, “The memories and stories of those who knew him will be his legend.” Jon Kenny’s passing leaves a void in Irish entertainment, but his laughter-filled legacy will endure.
A Life Well Lived
Jon Kenny’s death marks the end of an era for Irish comedy. His contributions to stage, screen, and laughter will remain timeless. Though his battles with illness were daunting, Kenny’s resilience and humor inspired many. As fans remember him, his legacy shines as a reminder of the joy he brought to countless lives.
