Actor and comedian Ewen McIntosh, best known for playing Keith Bishop in Ricky Gervais’ original The Office series, has died in the UK. He was 50 years old.
His management company posted on social media: “It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen Macintosh.” “His family thanks everyone who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home. “There will be a private cremation for family and close friends soon and a ceremonial memorial later in the year.
Born in Wales, McIntosh has appeared in various shows on stage and screen, including Little Britain and the reality series Celebrity Come Dine with Me, and also performed at the Edinburgh Fridge Festival in 2007.
But it was his success in the historical comedy series The Office, which ran from 2001 to 2003, that cemented McIntosh’s name in UK television folklore. Playing deadpan accountant Keith Bishop, he stole many scenes over two seasons of the hit show, which catapulted its creators Gervais and Stephen Merchant and many of its actors to stardom. He later partnered with Gervais in the final series of ‘After Life’, where he played a man who is banned from an all-you-can-eat restaurant.
Gervais was among those who led MacIntosh tributes. “Very sad news. The very funny and lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. Absolute original. Cut,” Written on X.
“He may have a famous face known to millions as Keith from The Office, but it is the person inside that I will remember most,” wrote his friend Ed Scott, CEO of DAB Music. “Ewen was full of compassion, kindness, integrity and above all a truly good man. Sending love to his parents Sarah and Ewen Sr, his brother Colin and family, as well as his many friends and admirers.