LONDON, June 9 (UPI) -- Rik Mayall has died at age 56.
The British actor was well known for his energetic and exaggerated comedic performances in television series The Young Ones and Blackadder. His management agency, Brunskill, announced his death Monday morning.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Rik Mayall who passed away this morning," the statement reads. "We will be issuing a further statement in the fullness of time."
The cause of death is currently unclear, but Mayall had been in poor health since a quad bike accident in 1998. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Barbara Robbin, and their three children.
"It's really a dreadful piece of news," Blackadder producer John Lloyd tells the BBC. "He was the most extraordinarily good actor as well as being an amazing standup comic. Apart from being good company, he was a great professional."
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