Farewell, Tony Slattery: A Beloved Comedian Leaves Us

Tony Slattery, the British comedian known for his role in the improv show "Whose Line Is It Anyway? ", has passed away at 65. His family confirmed that he suffered a heart attack and left us on Tuesday morning. Before his untimely departure, Slattery had been battling mental health issues and addictions for many years. Born in Middlesex, England, Slattery studied at the University of Cambridge where he joined the comedy troupe with future stars like Stephen Fry and Emma Thompson. He started his TV career on "Saturday Stayback" in 1983. Slattery's big break came when he became a regular on "Whose Line Is It Anyway? " in 1988. The show aired on Channel 4 and was hosted by Clive Anderson. Slattery left after seven seasons, and the show wrapped up three seasons later. As an actor, Slattery appeared in several films, including "Peter's Friends" with his Cambridge peers. He also took on roles in "The Crying Game, " "To Die For, " and "The Wedding Tackle. " On TV, he featured in shows like "Coronation Street" and "Kingdom. " In 2019, Slattery opened up about his struggles with mental health. He revealed that he had a mental breakdown in 1996 at the age of 36. He discussed his battles with bipolar disorder and substance abuse, admitting that the manic part of his personality was always there but was intensified by drugs and alcohol. Slattery's talent and kindness left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Comedian Stephen Fry remembered him as "the gentlest, sweetest soul" and noted the cruel irony of his death coming just as he was starting to emerge from his dark battles. Slattery is survived by his long-term partner, Mark Michael Hutchinson, whom he met while performing in "Me and My Girl" in the '80s.