Whose Line Is It Anyway? star Tony Slattery dies aged 65 as tributes flow

British actor and comedian Tony Slattery, who is best known for his role on the popular British improvisation show Whose Line Is It Anyway? has died. He was 65.

The star passed away following a heart attack he had on Sunday evening in the UK. His family has confirmed his death to the BBC.

"It is with great sadness we must announce actor and comedian Tony Slattery, aged 65, has passed away today, Tuesday morning, following a heart attack on Sunday evening," a statement shared on behalf of Slattery's long-term partner, actor Mark Michael Hutchison read.

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Tributes have already begun flowing for the much-loved star, family member and friend.

British actor, comedian and writer Sir Stephen Fry, who was a longtime friend of Slattery, has remembered him as the "gentlest, sweetest soul".

Along with his stand-up Slattery appeared alongside Fry, Dame Emma Thompson and Hugh Laurie in the 1992 comedy Peter's Friends.

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Fry posted a photo of the stars from their younger days to share a tribute to his late friends.

"So very sad to have lost the wonderful Tony Slattery, just about the gentlest, sweetest soul I ever knew," he wrote.

"Not to mention a screamingly funny and deeply talented wit and clown."

Fry concluded his post with well-wishes for Slattery's partner Hutchison.

"Love and condolences to Mark, his staunch, devoted life partner of almost 40 years."

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Slattery made a lasting impression in the British comedy scene with his quick-witted improvisations as a regular on Whose Line Is It Away?. He appeared on the show for its first seven seasons.

He also starred in movies like The Crying Game, Peter's Friends and Carry on Columbus and leant his talents to various TV shows.

Born in 1959 in North London, Slattery went on to study at the University of Cambridge where he found his love of theatre.

After meeting long-term friend Stephen Fry, Slattery joined the student sketch comedy group Cambridge Footlights.

Other members of the group at that time included stars Hugh Laurie, Dame Emma Thompson and Sandi Toksvig.

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