IRISH COMEDIAN and singer Brendan Grace has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
The 68-year-old musician, who is best known for his chart-topping Irish hit Combine Harvester, is also familiar to comedy fans thanks to a memorable guest appearance on Father Ted.
Grace played the rude and amusingly abrasive Father Fintan Stack in the episode New Jack City, which sees him join the Parochial House as Father Jack’s short-lived replacement.
A comedian and storyteller of the highest order, Grace was diagnosed with lung cancer after initially being admitted to hospital with pneumonia, where he has remained for the past month.
A spokesperson for Father Ted favourite said: "Brendan Grace has been in hospital for the last four weeks receiving treatment for pneumonia.
"It has now transpired that he is also suffering from cancer for which he is receiving ongoing care and treatment.”
The rep also confirmed The Irish Mirror: "His current July/August Irish Tour has been cancelled.
"Brendan is still in hospital and will be remaining there for ongoing treatment.
"He is hospitalised in Ireland."
Born in Dublin, Grace previously divided his time between a home in West Palm Beach, Florida, and his pub in Killaloe, County Clare, the aptly named 'Brendan Grace's Bar'.
The comedian has endured a string of health issues over the past few years.
The 68-year-old is a diabetic and has previously suffered a stroke.
Fans across Ireland and far beyond will be hoping he makes a full recovery, following this latest setback.
