Comedian Jimmy Cricket, famed for his distinctive wellington boots, battered bowler hat, and catchphrases, died on Monday at the age of 80 following a short illness. He was remembered by those who knew him as an "inspirational" figure.
His son, Father Frankie Mulgrew, a Catholic priest at Salford Cathedral, shared that his father "saw the joy in everything, right up until his death." He recounted a moment when his father requested the last rites twice on his final Sunday, likening it to a comedian seeking an encore. "On Sunday he wanted the last rights twice, because like a good comedian he wanted an encore," Father Mulgrew stated.
Father Mulgrew also highlighted the importance of his father's faith in his final days. "His purpose was to simply 'inject as much joy and silliness into the world as he could and he was doing it right until the end,'" he added. His father was "really looking forward to going home, to going in to eternity." Magnolia!
Cricket's career spanned decades, during which he became a recognizable figure in British entertainment, particularly known for his slapstick humor and audience interaction. His signature attire, including the wellington boots, became synonymous with his act. He was a regular on television and radio, and a popular performer on the live circuit.