We have some very sad news to share with you all this afternoon, with reports that actress and comedian Caroline Aherne has passed away following a battle with throat cancer. She was 52 years old.
Early reports claim that the Royle Family star’s publicist confirmed the very sad news this afternoon.
The star was lauded throughout her career as one of Britain’s most talented comedians, with shows such as Mrs Merton and The Royle Family scooping her many awards and cementing her title as a national treasure.
Poor dear Caroline Aherne, how terribly sad
— Jenny Eclair (@jennyeclair) July 2, 2016
Caroline Aherne was one of the best things about Gogglebox - her continuing to be a part of the show through her treatment is an inspiration
— Scott Bryan (@scottygb) July 2, 2016
Devastated about Caroline Aherne, still laugh at the Royle Family now no matter how many times I've seen it. RIP
— Eve (@sayerseve) July 2, 2016
Of course, in more recent times, Caroline came to be known as the voice of Channel 4’s hit reality series Gogglebox.
Tributes have come pouring in since news of Caroline’s passing broke this afternoon, with fellow comedian Jenny Éclair leading the tributes.
“Poor dear Caroline Aherne, how terribly sad,” wrote the Loose Women panellist.
What sad news. Our hearts go out to Caroline’s family at this very sad time.