Legendary comedian Brendan Grace has died aged 68.
He had been battling lung cancer.
The Dubliner has been entertaining audiences for 50 years.
He started his career in a folkband, but later became better known as a stand-up comedian.
His schoolboy character 'Bottler' was a favourite among fans.
He has sold out at venues across the world, and was particularly popular in the UK and US where he lived.
In 1995, he starred in the Irish film 'Moondance'.
The following year, he also attracted a large following after appearing in 'Father Ted' as the unforgettable Fr Fintan Stack.
Grace was forced to cancel his Irish summer tour after recently being diagnosed with lung cancer.
He is survived by his wife Eileen and their four children.
Tributes are being paid on social media, with 'Mrs Brown's Boys' Brendan O'Carroll describing him as "a great comedy legend".
"He opened doors for so many of us and leaves a legacy of love and laughter that will echo through this land and we will all mourn his passing".
So sad at the passing of a great comedy legend, husband and father #brendangrace He opened doors for so many of us and leaves a legacy of love and laughter that will echo through this land and we will all mourn his passing. Rest peacefully Bottler you’ve earned it.
— Brendan O'Carroll (@brendanMrsBrown) July 10, 2019
'Fair City' actor George McMahon said Grace was "a true great and a gentleman to the core."
“There’s no F in duck. “
- Brendan Grace
Thoughts are with his beloved Eileen and family. A true great and a gentleman to the core.— George McMahon (@georgeymac) July 10, 2019
Fine Gael Cork Councillor Des Cahill said Grace was "a larger than life character who brought smiles to many faces as an outstanding entertainer."
Sad to hear of the passing of Brendan Grace
A larger than life character who brought smiles to many faces as an outstanding entertainer. Rest peacefully Bottler pic.twitter.com/2XP0IpwFXR— Des Cahill (@CllrDesCahil) July 11, 2019
