Sean Lock fought advanced lung cancer in secret for a 'few years' says pal Bill Bailey
SEAN LOCK was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer "a few years ago", his pal Bill Bailey has said in tribute to the comedian today.
Sean Lock was a 'trailblazer' for comedy says Bill Bailey
Sean Lock died surrounded by his family aged 58 after battling advanced lung cancer on Wednesday. Speaking out about his death, Bill Bailey, 56, said the late star was told about his diagnosis "a few years ago". He said: "It was at the time quite a blow, particularly when it was quite advanced.
"We've tried to make the most of the last few years. We spent a lot of time together and went on trips together.
"And he's continued to work."
Bill added that Sean was "amazingly courageous" and a "tough individual who was mentally strong throughout the whole time".
He went on to say he was "grateful" for the time they had together.
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"He was fearless and determined and that's what gave them strength," he added on ITV News.
Following the news of his death, Bill also paid tribute on Twitter.
In view of his 3.3 million followers, he wrote: "It’s heartbreaking to lose my dearest friend Sean Lock, he was a true original, a wonderful comic.
"All my thoughts are with his family."
Harry Hill commented: "He struggled with [the illness] – he went through all the same emotions anyone in that position would experience. But he was stoical about it.
"Because he was so bright, he read up on all the latest treatments.
"He knew much more about that side of medicine than I ever did.”
The 8 Out Of 10 Cats star was diagnosed with skin cancer in his later 20s.
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Sean underwent a biopsy after a one night stand noticed a "black, misshapen and crusty" patch on his back.
A doctor concluded that the patch was a malignant melanoma.
Sean went on to urge people to keep check themselves for any moles or unusual looking skin patches.
On Wednesday, a statement from his agent Off The Kerb Productions read: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Sean Lock.
He died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family. Sean was one of Britain’s finest comedians, his boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work, marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy.
"Sean was also a cherished husband and father to three children.
"Sean will be sorely missed by all that knew him. We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children is respected at this difficult time."
He is survived by his wife Anoushka Nara Giltsoff, his two daughters and son.