LONDON (AP) — Eric Sykes, the widely-acclaimed British comedy actor and writer, died Wednesday. He was 89.
He died at his home after a brief illness, said manager Norma Farnes.
Sykes was one of the most popular comic actors of his generation, appearing in shows in London's West End into his 80s. He began his career writing scripts for BBC shows, co-writing 24 episodes of the classic radio comedy "The Goon Show" with the late Spike Milligan.
He appeared in the "Sykes and a" sitcom about a brother and sister living together in west London, which ran in the 1960s and 1970s. He went on to write and act in theater shows and movies, including an appearance in "The Others" starring Nicole Kidman and in the Harry Potter film "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire."
Sykes also wrote scripts for Peter Sellers and other major British actors.
TV star and former Monty Python member Michael Palin said Sykes was "one of the nicest, most decent men in the business and one of a kind."
"To me, he was a great inspiration, both as a writer and performer," Palin said.
Comedy writer Eddie Braben said Sykes was a "monumental man of comedy, an inspirational figure for those who aimed for comedy success." He said Sykes' death leaves "an enormous gap in the field of fun. His was the comedy of innocence. He didn't raise any bruises, only laughter."
Sykes was survived by his wife, Eith Eleanore Milbrandt, and his four children.
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Rest in peace, Mr Eric Sykes. My prayer and condolences are to you and your family. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Sykes family would be comforted. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Sykes family would rest in being insured that their loved one Mr. Eric Sykes is in a better place. I pray (Heavenly Father) that the Sykes family will all be together again one day.
Ryan Randall
June 18, 2025 | Elllenwood, GA | Acquaintance
Thank you x
November 03, 2012
Eric old chap on behalf of my New Zealand mates who like a decent fellow who can make us all titter thanks for the fabulous memories. Pardon?
Lenny Weekley
September 27, 2012 | Auckland NZ
grown up with you, and your contemporaries bringing rays of sunshine into our lives. you have all left a wonderful legacy in film for the future. J,B.NORFOLK.
J B
August 14, 2012 | NORFOLK
Eric you were certainly one of the greats. Your autobiography is one book I cherish and gives me lots of pleasure. You are now with your beloved mum. and brothers and are probably having a laugh at our expense. Thanks for the memories. God bless you Eric.
August 05, 2012
My sympathies to the Sykes' family. Eric provided a lot of fun for a lot of years -- yes, even here across the Atlantic. He will be missed.
Ken Dennis
July 12, 2012 | Louisville, KY
God bless Mr. Sykes family during this most difficult time. Praying God gives you strength, peace and comfort during the coming days ahead.
July 11, 2012
Sykes was one of the greatest actors of British tv. My sympathies go to the Sykes family and friends as they endure this time of sadness. A thought that brings a measure of comfort is knowing that soon God will swallow up death forever and he will certainly wipe the tears from all faces.
Ashley
July 10, 2012
KATHY & BUDDY BARNETT
July 09, 2012 | NEWPORT, TN