Royle Family star Caroline Aherne dies, aged 52
Comedian and writer Caroline Aherne has died aged 52.
The comedian who wrote and starred in the Royle Family, dief after a battle with cancer, said her publicist.
The actor had been diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago, and previously was diagnosed with eye and bladder cancer.
Her publicist Neil Reading said on Saturday: “Caroline Aherne has sadly passed away, after a brave battle with cancer.
“The Bafta award-winning writer and comedy actor died earlier today at her home in Timperley, Greater Manchester. She was 52.
“The family ask for privacy at this very sad time.”
As well as the Royle Family, Aherne starred in the Fast Show, and was the narrator of Channel 4 show Gogglebox. She found fame with Mrs Merton in 1994 after working as a secretary at the BBC.
In 1997 Aherne caused a stir when she was photographed French-kissing Eurovision Song Contest winner Katrina Leskanich at the Sony Radio Awards ceremony.
Mark Gatiss said he was sad at the “awful news” saying Aherne was “so gifted”.
Born in London, Aherne grew up in Wythenshawe, near Manchester.
