Britain's Got Talent star Ian Royce has passed away at the age of 51.
The news was shared on the comedian's Twitter page in a statement that read: "It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.
MORE: 10 self-care apps you need to download
"He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family. He put up a good fight but is in a better place now."
Ian's death rocked the BGT team, with members taking to social media to express their sadness.
WATCH: Piers Morgan reaches out to burglar on GMB
On Tuesday, Ant and Dec said that they would "never forget" Ian, in a tweet that read: "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."
MORE: 26 best meal delivery services in the UK: Mindful Chef, Gousto & more
Ant and Dec tweeted their condolences
MORE: 14 charities you can support during coronavirus and how to help
Piers Morgan added: "RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry. Worked with him on@BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate."
© Photo: TwitterIan's daughter announced his passing on Tuesday
It had been a difficult year for Ian, who in Febuary opened up in a frank series of tweets about the fact that he had been struggling with depression after losing his voice.
A segment of his statement read: "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."
He continued: "Last year I lost my voice, thus my everything. My living, my personality, my being. But fight I will to get it back. In fact all of my darkness I want to walk away from."
Make sure you never miss a ROYAL story! Sign up to our newsletter to get all of our celebrity, royal and lifestyle news delivered directly to your inbox.
