Jon Kenny’s co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D’Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

As a lover of all things Irish, I find myself deeply saddened by the loss of Jon Kenny, a true legend and a national treasure. Growing up, I remember the laughter that filled our homes as my family gathered around the television to watch the antics of the D’Unbelievables. The unique blend of wit, humor, and pure Irish charm was something that only Jon could deliver with such grace and authenticity.


In a touching tribute on social media, Pat Shortt honored his fellow D’Unbelievables partner after the latter’s sad passing at the age of 66.

On Friday night, the Irish comedian and actor lost his life at a hospital in Galway after a long struggle against cancer, according to his wife, Margy.

In his 40s, he successfully overcame Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, only to reveal in 2020 that the cancer had come back again.

Originating from Limerick, Jon achieved notoriety in the ’90s, becoming known as one-half of the humoristic team, the D’Unbelievables. He portrayed several eccentric Irish personas alongside his partner Pat, bringing laughter to many.

On Saturday, Pat shared on Instagram: “We’re all heartbroken about Jon passing away, and our sympathies go out to Margy Aaron and Leah. It was a privilege for me to tour with Jon for numerous years and learn from him.

‘We’re making some fantastic shows and videos that make us laugh during rehearsals and play terrific music. However, nothing compares to spending time in the kitchen with Margy and Caroline at Lough Gur, sharing stories and laughter. Thanks for the memories, Jon.’

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

The comedian also included a reel of some of the duo’s best moments from throughout the years.

Many people flocked to the comments section of the heartfelt post to express their sympathies, typing: “Heart-wrenching news, I can’t think of a home in rural Ireland that didn’t play those three tapes repeatedly. It was wonderful to see you perform in Achill as well. May he rest in peace.

Two boys in the 90s consistently made me laugh so hard I felt ill. True entertainers. It’s a shame they aren’t around to create laughter like that anymore. Rest In Peace, Jon.

I’m deeply saddened for you, John, his family, and everyone who knew him. He was a significant part of my childhood and adolescence. Laughing at your jokes was something I never tired of repeating. This news has left me in shock; he was truly one-of-a-kind.

One of the memorable phrases from Irish comedy goes, ‘Whatever my next step was.’ It’s truly heartbreaking to learn about Jon’s departure. Thank you for the endless laughter he brought!

‘D’Unbelievables captured the characters of rural Ireland. Jon was such a talented performer.’

‘Comedy genius, an irish legend, a part of everyones house growing up. Rest in peace Jon.’

Apart from that, Jon has appeared as a guest star in the British comedy series “Father Ted” on Channel 4, and more recently, he landed a part in the Academy Award-winning film “The Banshees of Inisherin.

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

A post shared by PAT SHORTT (@patshortt1)

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

As a devoted admirer, I express my deepest sympathies. In his own unique way, Jon lived life to the fullest, squeezing every drop of joy, chaos, and affection from it. His quick-wittedness, humor, generosity, and kindness will endure beyond this transition.

‘The memories and stories of those who knew him will be his legend.’

According to RTE’s report, he experienced a heart attack very early on Sunday morning and unfortunately never came back to consciousness.

In March, Jon shared details about his initial cancer diagnosis that occurred during the height of D’Unbelievables’ success.

On a recent chat with Oliver Callan on RTE Radio One, I shared my experience, which was both exhausting and exhilarating – almost to the point of taking my life! It’s an adventure I won’t forget anytime soon.

At the start of the new millennium, I was diagnosed with cancer, which forced me to temporarily step aside. For about two years, I underwent various types of medical treatments.

A flood of tributes has come in for the iconic comic, who was scheduled to entertain at The Schoolyard Theatre in Charleville on Saturday.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said Jon was a ‘gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker.’

Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66
Jon Kenny's co-star Pat Shortt pays tribute to D'Unbelievables partner with touching social media post after his tragic death aged 66

Jon held a rare talent, seldom seen among many, to leave his audiences in stitches merely by giving a quick glance or uttering a solitary word, as it was pointed out.

hidden beneath the casual appearance of comedic skill lies a talented actor and profound intellect.

Jon was intriguing and considerate, known for his captivating, dramatic acts both on stage and in films. To this day, the nation is left in fits of laughter due to the enchantment woven by the D’Unbelievables.

Last night found me in his hometown of Limerick, when the news of his passing reached us. To express how cherished he was would be an immense underestimation.

I found Jon’s sincere and introspective discussion about illness with Oliver Callan on the radio this year to be genuinely moving. Just like any other thing he does, it felt authentic and relatable.

‘To Jon’s family, friends and huge circle of colleagues and peers, I am truly sorry for your loss.’

Michael Martin, deputy prime minister of Ireland, expressed profound sadness upon the demise of Jon Kenny, a renowned actor and comedian who left an indelible mark on us.

‘Through the D’Unbelievables, and his appearances on stage and on screen, Jon made us smile.

‘He was an entertainer to his core. Deepest sympathies to his wife Margie and family at this time.’

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2024-11-17 14:49

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