Frank Skinner was reduced to tears on his Absolute Radio show recently as he admitted his comedian pal Gareth Richards was fighting for his life.
Gareth’s wife Laura has now released a statement confirming the 41-year-old tragically died on Good Friday.
His death marks the end of an almost two-week long struggle following a car crash which left him with “terrible” brain injuries.
“It is with great sadness that I have to share that Gareth passed away on Friday 7th April (Good Friday) at 6:30pm,” Laura revealed.
“He was in a terrible car accident on Monday 27th March at 11:30pm and sustained serious brain injuries.”
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She added: “It was a miracle that he arrived at the hospital alive. Since then, the doctors and nurses have been incredible and have kept him in a stable and sedated condition.
“However, the latest scan revealed that the extent of the damage was so severe that they would have to remove all of the supportive medications and allow him to be at peace.”
Tragically, Frank had pleaded with his radio listeners to “pray” for Gareth last weekend, pledging: “There is always hope.”
His pal had been part of his Absolute Radio show right from the beginning, having co-presented it with him alongside Emily Dean when it first launched back in 2009.
Gareth, whose Oscar and BAFTA-winning brother Joshua James is a cinematographer, had also supported Frank out on tour.
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The pair had become close pals over the years, leaving the host absolutely distraught when he revealed the news.
A tearful Frank told listeners: “One thing you have to learn to do in this line of work is to put on a false front and the show must go on.
“Gareth was in a very big road accident this week and it’s not looking great for [him]. He is in hospital and he’s fighting but it’s not looking great.”
The comedian had to be cut free from his vehicle following a collision on the M25 close to Heathrow Airport, which led to the motorway being closed for 10 hours.
The Metropolitan Police warned that his injuries had been deemed “life-threatening” but his loved ones continued to hold out hope until the very last moment.
According to Gareth’s devastated wife, his brain injuries had proved so severe the decision had been made to stop treating him in order to avoid unnecessary suffering.
“There will be details of the funeral and other ways to remember Gareth to follow, as I know that he was well loved,” she revealed.
“At the moment the grief is a lot to cope with. Thank you all for your support and kindness.”
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