Irish comedian Deirdre O'Kane has said she is "reeling with shock" after the death of her cousin Criostoir McLaughlin.
The RTE star paid tribute to her relative on Instagram and revealed that his passing "makes no sense".
O'Kane, 53, heaped praise on Criostoir and admitted he will be sorely missed.
She posted: "My gorgeous talented cousin Criostoir McLaughlin died suddenly on Thursday.
"We are all still reeling with shock... it makes no sense.
"To say he will be missed by his family and those closest to him doesn’t begin to cover it.
"He was so well-loved by so many.
"A huge person.... dear god the madness of this. Go well Criostoir ."
Newstalk radio presenter Dr Ciara Kelly was also saddened by Criostoir's passing.
She said: "Didn’t know you were cousins D. I’m pals with Grainne, we are all so shocked locally. It’s just devastating. Hope you’re ok xxx."
Deirdre replied: "@ciarakellydoc Ahh, I didn’t know that Ciara. tiny Ireland. Isn’t it the worst?? Gorgeous Criostoir… I’m just heartbroken for Grainne, Lorcan… all of them xxx."
Friends and fans commented on Deirdre's post with their condolences.
Victoria Smurfit said: "Am so sorry D. Sending best love x."
James Patrice added: "So sorry for your loss x"
Another posted: "I’m so sorry for your loss.. may he rest in peace."
Louth native Deirdre O'Kane shared a picture of Criostoir's death notice which said he passed away "suddenly."
It read: "Devoted father to Lorcan, beloved husband of the late Helen.
"He will be deeply missed by his son, his partner Siobhan, his sisters Grainne, Fiona, Orla, his brother Ronan, his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, his adoring nieces and nephews, by all the family and his dear friends."
His funeral is set to take place on Tuesday in Greystones, Co Wicklow.
The Mass will be limited to 50 people due to current Covid-19 guidelines.
