Tony Slattery, the beloved British actor and comedian best known for his improvisational talent on Channel 4’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, passed away at the age of 65 on Tuesday. The news was confirmed by his long-term partner, Mark Michael Hutchinson, who shared that Slattery succumbed to a heart attack.
Hutchinson expressed the profound sadness of Slattery’s passing, stating, “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.”
Slattery rose to fame with “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, where he performed from 1988 to 1995. He also featured in notable films such as “How to Get Ahead in Advertising,” “Peter’s Friends,” and the impactful thriller “The Crying Game.” A theatre enthusiast since his days at the University of Cambridge, Slattery joined the Cambridge Footlights comedy group, where he became president and worked alongside prominent figures like Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, and Emma Thompson.
His career began taking shape in the early 1980s with appearances on “Saturday Stayback” and he further showcased his humor on platforms like “Have I Got News for You” and “Just a Minute.” After stepping back from the limelight due to health challenges, Slattery made a comeback in 2005, appearing in various dramas and continuing to work in television until his final performance in a 2020 episode of BBC’s “Horizon,” where he candidly shared his struggles with mental health and addiction.
Fry encapsulated the sentiment of many in the industry with a touching tribute, reflecting on Slattery’s gentle spirit and his resilience in fighting personal demons throughout his life. He highlighted the joy Slattery experienced in his later years, having reconnected with his audience through live performances and a podcast series.
Tony Slattery leaves behind a legacy of laughter and creativity, remembered fondly by fans and friends alike. His journey serves as a reminder of the deeper battles often fought behind the scenes, even for those who bring joy to others.