Frank Skinner struggles to speak as he pays tribute to late friend Gareth Richards
Frank Skinner has paid an emotional tribute to his "gentle and funny" late co-star Gareth Richards after he tragically died following a horror car crash.
The comedian, 66, shared his devastation in a special podcast episode of his show on Absolute Radio.
Gareth, 41, had been fighting for his life in hospital following the smash on March 27.
Speaking to listeners on Easter Sunday, Frank said: "Hello, this is Frank Skinner.
"Last week some of you will know that I ended the show by telling you that our former colleague and dear friend Gareth Richards had been in a serious road accident and was fighting for his life.
"Erm, and there's been lots of beautiful messages about Gareth and his family have been very kind of us in that they've informed us about the details of his struggle but look...
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"Um, Gareth didn't make it, Gareth didn't make it and we will miss him intensely. He was a very kind, gentle, funny, fascinating man and I can't believe that he -"
Frank paused for a moment as his voice broke before continuing: "Anyway, today's show features Gareth's best bits and you're allowed to cry but you have to laugh as well, I think he would have insisted."
The comic previously broke down in tears as he revealed his former co-star was in hospital.
Gareth's wife Laura confirmed the heartbreaking news he has since passed away after suffering serious brain injuries.
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She said: "It is with great sadness that I have to share that Gareth passed away on Friday 7th April (Good Friday) at 6:30pm," she wrote.
"He was in a terrible car accident on Monday 27th March at 11:30pm and sustained serious brain injuries.
"It was a miracle that he arrived at the hospital alive. Since then, the doctors and nurses have been incredible and have kept him in a stable and sedated condition.
"However, the latest scan revealed that the extent of the damage was so severe that they would have to remove all of the supportive medications and allow him to be at peace.
"The boys are bearing up well."
Laura said details of the funeral would be released in due course but at present, the grief is "a lot to cope with".
Comedian Gareth co-hosted Frank's Absolute Radio show for two years and still makes regular appearances.
He also supported Frank on his 2014 and 2020 tours as well appearing on Russell Howard's Good News.
Speaking on the programme last week, Frank said: "Gareth was in a very big road accident this week and it is not looking great for Gareth.
"He is in hospital and he is fighting and it's not looking great. I didn't want to do this show without mentioning him."
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The Three Lions singer then begged any listeners who have any form of faith to offer up their prayers for his pal.
Tributes have flooded in for Gareth from the comedy world after his death was announced.
