This week, the passing of Rob Picton, a four-parented crew member on Gavin and Stacey, left Matthew Horne in sorrow.
This past week, the main performer Horne, known for his role as Gavin Shipman in the renowned BBC sitcom, shared the sad news about Rob’s demise while choked up with emotion during a ‘Chat With…’ event.
Apologizing for being distracted, I need to share some sad news. Earlier today, we learned through our WhatsApp group that our final driver, Rob, who was in his 40s, had unfortunately passed away. This news momentarily took my focus elsewhere.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of sorrow. The loss of Rob has left me utterly heartbroken. He was an exceptional individual, kind-hearted and genuine, and his absence leaves a significant void. To think that he has left behind a four-year-old child… words truly fail me in expressing the depth of my sadness.
Rob, apart from being a driver for the program, was recognized in South Wales by another alias – Joe Blow. He is well-known there as a DJ and music producer.
Last year, he was captured on set during the filming of the last-ever episode of Gavin and Stacey. Actor Rob Brydon was evident in a video shared on social media.
Delighted about being part of the production, Rob excitedly posted on Facebook: “Which charming fellow is seen driving Uncle Bryn and Gwen? Share your guesses by sending your responses on the reverse side of a postcard.
This past January, Rob posted a picture of himself along with Larry Lamb, affectionately referring to him as “Uncle Larry” in a heartfelt message.
He penned on X: Always lovely to catch up with uncle for an xmas treat.’
A few weeks prior to his sudden passing, Rob confided in his loved ones about not feeling well. He was also dismissed from work due to chest discomfort.
On July 17, he wrote: “I’ll reach out to those who have been trying to contact me; I haven’t been avoiding you. A few days back, I was sent home from work due to chest pain and since then, I’ve been dealing with Esophagitis, leaving me feeling drained.
Expressing gratitude towards his sister and business associate Sharifah, he mentioned, “I truly miss the joy of savoring food and beverages without discomfort, a pleasure that’s well-known among those who are familiar with me.
Rob had been a highly esteemed disc jockey and club organizer in Wales for nearly 25 years, playing an integral role in the region’s music scene.
Previously, he would post about his nightclub performances and events happening around Wales on his Instagram for his followers to see.
Rob had his personal automotive venture named Pictons Motors, but unfortunately, this company ceased operations in 2023 following a five-year stint, as per records from Companies House.
The man with four children has a pair of daughters and a pair of sons; it was just this past June that his youngest boy turned five years old.
With great pride, Rob posted photos of his son’s special day, capturing moments as he unwrapped his birthday gifts.
Previously, Rob spent a year behind bars following his admission of guilt for attacking a club-goer during his role as a security guard at a nightspot.
In 2020, he was imprisoned following his confession that he and a fellow coworker inflicted serious physical injury on a 21-year-old individual.
Previously speaking about his time in prison, Rob said he was locked up for 23 hours of the day.
He told the ACE Podcast Nation: ‘It wasn’t great obviously, nobody wants to go to prison.
‘Cardiff prison is a smelly old place, you know, it f***ing stinks of p*ss like.’
He added: ‘You’re stuck in a cell so it’s just you, yourself and your thoughts for months on end.’
A GoFundMe account has been established after the death of Rob, and James Corden from the show “Gavin and Stacey” is spearheading the contributions by donating £1,000 first.
The actor, known for playing Smithy, didn’t make any comments but added his signature to a substantial contribution towards covering Picton’s funeral expenses.
As of when it was published, the fundraiser had already collected £3,295, which is more than half the way towards its target of £5,500.
A pal of Rob’s, who set up the page, posted a photo of him in a vehicle, and commented: “We’ve gotten some additional details about our cherished friend Rob Picton.
Although the specific details about why Rob passed away suddenly remain unknown, there’s no doubt that he took pride in several aspects of his life. He cherished his children, felt accomplished with his work, and enjoyed the life he led.
Not so long ago, we were talking in the car, discussing his upcoming birthday and his children. It’s difficult to accept that he’s gone now.
Read More
- Clash Royale Best Boss Bandit Champion decks
- Mobile Legends November 2025 Leaks: Upcoming new heroes, skins, events and more
- PUBG Mobile or BGMI A16 Royale Pass Leaks: Upcoming skins and rewards
- The John Wick spinoff ‘Ballerina’ slays with style, but its dialogue has two left feet
- Kingdom Rush Battles Tower Tier List
- Clash Royale Season 77 “When Hogs Fly” November 2025 Update and Balance Changes
- Delta Force Best Settings and Sensitivity Guide
- Vampire’s Fall 2 redeem codes and how to use them (June 2025)
- Stocks stay snoozy as Moody’s drops U.S. credit—guess we’re all just waiting for the crash
- ‘Australia’s Most Sexually Active Woman’ Annie Knight reveals her shock plans for the future – after being hospitalised for sleeping with 583 men in a single day
2025-08-03 22:48