Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Gemma Jones

Jethro dead: comedian, 73, died after battle with covid

Comedian Jethro has died after battling covid.

The entertainer, whose real name was Geoffrey Rowe died on Tuesday December 14 at the age of 73.

A spokesperson on his public Facebook page announced the tragic news.

READ MORE: Government announce change to vaccination programme to aid booster rollout

In the post, they wrote: "It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of the well known and popular Cornish comedian Jethro.

"Tragically Jethro passed away on 14th December 2021 after contracting COVID-19.

"Jethro leaves behind his life partner Jennie, sons Jesse and Lanyon, step daughter Sarah, daughter-in-law Stacey and of course his much loved grandchildren.

"We ask that you respect our privacy at this very sad time and give us all time to grieve.

"We will continue to support each other in the knowledge that our lives will never be the same without him."

Jethro only retired earlier this year, in February, after 50 years of performing his comedy routines across the country.

At the time, he shared his career update on his social media as he said: "I think it's time to hang up my mic.

"It's been a hard decision but my memory has made it easier. A big thank you to everyone that has come to see me over 50 years."

The comedian was best known for incorporating his strong Cornish accent and rural dress sense into his stand-up routines.

After his popularity grew in Cornwall and Devon through the 1970s and 1980s, he made his first national television performance in 1990 on the Des O'Connor Show and later on Jim Davidson's programmes.

In the height of his popularity, he sold some 250,000 theatre seats a year.

Fans were devastating by the news of his passing and took to Twitter to share their condolences.

One user said: "Jethro, you put joy and laughter into many lives. Rest in Peace."

Jon said: "Looks like the train finally stopped on a Wednesday. RIP Geoffrey Rowe - Jethro, one of our sons and greatest comedians in the UK."

Terry said: "Rest in peace Jethro you were a legend one of a kind."

Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.