Remembering Jon Kenny: The Comedic Genius We Lost
Ah, Jon Kenny. The name rings a bell, doesn’t it? If you haven’t heard of him before, you’d better sit down because the world just got a little less funny with his recent passing at 66. Known primarily for his work in the dynamic duo with Pat Shortt, D’Unbelievables, Kenny was a beacon of humor, wit, and charisma.
The Taoiseach himself got all sentimental, paying tribute to Jon by saying he had “the ability to make his audiences crack up laughing with a glance or a single word.” Because let’s face it, making people laugh is a proper skill, like being able to cook an egg without it sticking or remembering your partner’s birthday!
The Comedy Legacy of D’Unbelievables
Along with his comedic partner Pat Shortt, Kenny created laughter that echoed through the ages. Their sketches mirrored the day-to-day antics of life in the Republic of Ireland, no one did it better than them. Their most notorious sketch? Two bumbling Garda officers appealing for the public’s help on Crimebusters. Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve seen an Irish cop trying to figure out why his hat’s backward!
But that’s not all folks! Kenny also had a penchant for dramatic roles that showcased the depth behind that cheeky grin. His appearance on Father Ted as the blustering TV host? Pure gold! This just shows that he wasn’t just about giggles but could get serious when the role demanded it.
A Struggle Not Forgotten
However, life threw Jon a few curveballs, as it often does. Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Disease in his 40s, Kenny was forced to step back from the limelight for treatment—talk about a plot twist! But did that stop him? Of course not! After grueling treatments, he returned stronger, and redoubled his efforts in both film and stage.
In his own words on The Oliver Callan Show, he said, “Just for the craic of it – you know when you’re getting on with things?” Just imagine adding “heart failure” to your list of issues; I’d just like to order a small side of normal, please!
Tributes Pour In
After Kenny’s passing, tributes poured in quicker than a pint at a pub. The Tánaiste (that’s deputy prime minister for those of you not up to date with your Irish politics) called him “an entertainer to his core.” While Simon Harris, our Taoiseach, emphasized the unique blend of light-heartedness and serious talent he possessed. Clearly, Kenny was more than just a comedian; he was an institution!
His talents on stage were indisputable, having graced many dramatic pieces like John B Keane’s The Matchmaker and more. How he managed to juggle comedy, acting, singing, and poetry—it’s enough to make you question what you’re doing with your life!
Final Thoughts
Though Jon Kenny has left us, his legacy lives on—like that cheeky off-script moment that you wish you could hit rewind on. He made us think, laugh, and appreciate the little quirks of everyday life, often poking fun at it so well. His contribution to Irish comedy will forever remain priceless.
So, here’s to you, Jon. May your jokes echo in the hearts of many, and your laughter never fade. Cheers to the original madcap—a true entertainer in every sense of the word!
Tommy Tiernan Show RTÉThe taoiseach expressed heartfelt condolences for the loss of Jon Kenny, the celebrated Irish comedian, writer, and actor.
He made a significant impact alongside comedic partner Pat Shortt in their renowned duo D’Unbelievables, which captivated audiences across Ireland.
The 66-year-old performer, cherished for his talent, had been battling cancer and heart failure in the recent years.
Born in County Limerick, Kenny left an indelible mark on Irish cinema with memorable roles in classic productions like Father Ted, Les Misérables (1998), Angela’s Ashes, and most recently The Banshees of Inisherin, where he once again collaborated with Pat Shortt.
Getty ImagesExpressing deep sorrow, Taoiseach Simon Harris remarked he learned of Jon’s passing with “utmost sadness.”
He praised Kenny’s unique ability, which “very few people possess,” to provoke laughter with just a glance or a single word.
“Behind that seemingly effortless talent to joke, lay a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker,” Harris highlighted in his heartfelt statement.
“Jon was an interesting and thoughtful person, known for his stunning dramatic performances on stage and screen, and the country is still filled with laughter from the enchantment that was D’Unbelievables.”
In addition to his exceptional comedic skills, Kenny was also a celebrated singer, poet, and solo stand-up performer.
‘Entertainer to his core’
Tánaiste Micheál Martin offered a tribute, recognizing Kenny as “one of our most iconic actors and comedians.” He expressed his grief, stating, “Deeply saddened at the passing of Jon Kenny.”
He highlighted how Jon, through D’Unbelievables and his many stage and screen appearances, consistently brought joy and laughter to many, defining him as “an entertainer to his core.”
The duo formed D’Unbelievables in Limerick in the late 1980s, capturing the essence of everyday life in Ireland through their sketches.
One of their most memorable sketches featured the pair portraying bumbling Garda (Irish police) officers appealing for help on a show called Crimebusters, with Pat as Garda Tom Walsh and Jon as Garda PJ Moloney.
Jon also gained international recognition through a memorable cameo as a television host in the iconic Eurovision episode of Channel 4’s Father Ted.
Getty ImagesJon faced significant health challenges following his diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Disease in 2000, which abruptly ended his partnership with D’Unbelievables.
Reflecting on his struggles in a heartfelt discussion on The Oliver Callan Show, he disclosed that the diagnosis forced him into a period of inactivity and treatment.
He detailed the arduous journey of undergoing various treatments, stating, “That went on for two years, and I got a stem cell transplant, thanks be to God, in James’s (hospital), and they sorted me out.”
However, he later shared that cancer had unfortunately returned, requiring him to undergo surgery to remove part of his left lung. “I had some operation to remove some of my left lung, and that was good,” he remarked positively.
Despite his health struggles, Jon maintained a resilient outlook, saying, “I’ve been lucky now because my chemo is working.” Yet, he faced another obstacle, revealing, “just in the middle of it all, just for the craic of it – after my second chemo, I had heart failure.”
Beyond his illustrious television and film career, Jon was equally respected as a dedicated stage actor.
He showcased his versatility in productions like John B Keane’s The Matchmaker, Oliver Goldsmith’s She Stoops to Conquer at The Abbey Theatre, and the one-man show Crowman by Katie Holly, where he convincingly portrayed ten different characters.
What are the key aspects of Jon Kenny’s contributions to the performing arts in Ireland?
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Jon Kenny was revered not only for his comedic acts but also for his remarkable versatility in performing arts. Beyond comedy, he made significant contributions as a singer, poet, and solo stand-up artist, further enriching the cultural landscape of Ireland.
Kenny’s impact on audiences both at home and abroad is undeniable, and he will be remembered as a cherished figure in the world of entertainment. His legacy, characterized by laughter, wit, and a deep understanding of human nature, will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
