‘Father Ted’ Actor Frank Kelly Has Died Aged 77

Sad news today as Frank Kelly, veteran of classic TV show Father Ted, has just passed away at the age of 77.

The man who played Father Jack had a number of health problems in recent years, having suffered from bowel cancer, skin cancer, and heart problems before ultimately being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Kelly revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis last November, according to RTÉ.ie, he said at the time,

I’ve been working as an actor for over 50 years, and a shaky hand certainly won’t stop me. I remain open to offers for work on stage and screen. I’m quite available and my mobile is always on.

Over the years, Kelly appeared in shows such Hall’s Pictorial Weekly, Glenroe, Emmerdale, and, most notably, Father Ted as fan favourite Father Jack. 

Kelly is survived by his wife Bairbre and seven children.