Comedian Bill Bailey has said he sometimes still cannot believe his friend Sean Lock is gone, as he paid tribute on the fifth anniversary of the comedian's death. Lock passed away on August 16, 2021, at the age of 58, after a private battle with cancer. He died at his home, surrounded by his family.
A beloved comedian remembered
Lock was known for his quick wit and deadpan absurdist humour, which made him a favourite on Channel 4's 8 Out of 10 Cats and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, where he served as a team captain. He also created the sitcom 15 Storeys High and toured extensively with his stand-up comedy. His death came as a shock to fans, as he had kept his illness out of the public eye.
His management team announced his death with a statement: "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."
Bill Bailey's heartfelt tribute
On the anniversary, Bailey shared a photo of the two friends together in the countryside, writing: "Remembering my friend Sean, who we lost five years ago today. Can’t believe sometimes he’s not here, but always in my thoughts. Miss you old pal x."
The post drew an outpouring of tributes from fans. One commented: "The best guy of the best," while another said: "Five years? That's gone so fast and yet so long. What a fabulous friend you had, I miss his comedy." A third wrote: "Thinking of you today and thank you for all you do for people affected by cancer." Others echoed similar sentiments, with one fan adding: "One of the best. Sorry for your loss mate."
Final days and lasting legacy
Lock spent time in a hospice before his death at home. Fellow comedian Harry Hill revealed that Lock retained his sense of humour even in his final days. Hill told The Telegraph: "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."
Hill also recounted a phone call from Lock while he was in the hospice: "I asked him what it was like, and he said: 'It’s okay actually and the sex is amazing.'" Lock's legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow comedians alike, with his work on television and in stand-up remaining influential.
