Jimmy Cricket, Beloved ‘And There’s More’ Comedian, Passes Away at 80

Beloved Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket, best known for his sketch comedy series « And There’s More », has passed away at the age of 80. Cricket died on August 3 after a short illness, surrounded by family, laughter, and songs. Born James Mulgrew in Cookstown, Northern Ireland, he began his entertainment career at 21 as a Redcoat at a holiday camp. His breakthrough came in the early ’80s with various television appearances, ultimately leading to his own show, which featured his signature catchphrases. Cricket was adored for his wholesome humor, often reflecting his Irish roots. His family remembered him as a man who loved to make others laugh, stating that he maintained his positivity throughout his life. His last appearance was in the 2025 holiday special « New Year’s Eve with Mike, Noel and Friends. »

Jimmy Cricket, the cherished Irish comedian famed for his delightful sketch comedy series, ‘And There’s More’, has left us at the age of 80. He passed away on August 3 following a short illness, a loss profoundly felt by his family, friends, and countless fans who adored his humor. Cricket’s legacy has spanned decades, bringing joy to audiences through his unique blend of wit and wholesome comedy.

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• Early Life and Career Beginnings
• Rise to Fame
  • The Birth of ‘And There’s More’
• A Legacy of Laughter
  • Laughter Until the End
• Final Years and Lasting Impact
  • A Farewell with a Twist
• Comparison of Jimmy Cricket’s Career Highlights

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born James Mulgrew in Cookstown, Northern Ireland, Cricket’s journey into entertainment began in his teenage years. He left school at 16 and worked in a betting shop before taking a bold step into the world of performance at the tender age of 21. His stint as a Redcoat at the Butlins holiday camp in Mosney marked the beginning of his career in entertainment, where he took on various roles, entertaining both adults and children alike.

Rise to Fame

The early 1980s saw Cricket making a name for himself on British television with numerous guest appearances. His breakthrough came in 1980 when he debuted on the reality show ‘Search for a Star’. This was soon followed by appearances on beloved shows such as ‘Crackerjack!’ and ‘The Good Old Days’. His wholesome sense of humor, often reflecting on his Irish heritage, began to endear him to audiences across the UK.

The Birth of ‘And There’s More’

Cricket reached new heights in 1985 when he launched his own show, ‘And There’s More’, on ITV. This sketch comedy series resonated with viewers and ran for four successful seasons until 1988. It was during this time that he crafted some of his most memorable catchphrases, like « Ladies and gentlemen, come here » and, of course, « And there’s more. » This show cemented his status as a leading figure in British comedy.

A Legacy of Laughter

Beyond television, Cricket’s talent spanned various media. His radio presence was felt through shows such as ‘Jimmy’s Cricket Team’, which showcased his comedic genius. Throughout his career, he maintained an engaging and light-hearted persona, famously performing in a signature outfit of cut-off trousers and mismatched boots that added to his comedic charm.

Laughter Until the End

Cricket remained connected to his fans until the end. His family posted on social media that in his final days, he was surrounded by loved ones, humor, and joy. They reflected on how he consistently embraced the lighter side of life, even joking with NHS staff during challenging times. His family noted, « His courage, dignity and positivity through all he endured was inspirational. » Many shared how much they appreciated his contributions to comedy, making the world a brighter place.

Final Years and Lasting Impact

In more recent years, Cricket’s television appearances became less frequent, but he continued to showcase his humor in public forums, such as the BBC game show ‘Pointless Celebrities’ in 2020. His final appearance was in the holiday special ‘New Year’s Eve with Mike, Noel and Friends’ in 2025. His captivating spirit will surely live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness his brilliance.

A Farewell with a Twist

In a heartwarming conclusion, Cricket’s family stated they could have ended their tribute using one of his famous catchphrases but opted against it. Instead, they highlighted his profound faith and belief in eternity, stating, « He believed that death is not the end and was looking forward to eternity, so really…And there’s more. » This sentiment captures the essence of Jimmy Cricket perfectly, reminding us of the joy he brought to the world.

As we remember the legacy and laughter of Jimmy Cricket, it is undeniable that his contributions to comedy have left an indelible mark. His whimsical humor and loving spirit will forever resonate, reminding us all to find joy and laughter in our lives.

Comparison of Jimmy Cricket’s Career Highlights