Cornish comedy legend Jethro has died after contracting Covid-19, aged 73.
Best known for his observational comedy routines inspired by life in Cornwall, Jethro died on December 14, with the news being announced on his Facebook page.
His routines typically featured a lot of his strong Cornish accent and rural dress scene – as well as the use of profanity and sexual anecdotes.
His family issued a statement on the social media site which read: “It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of the well known and popular Cornish comedian Jethro.
“Tragically Jethro passed away on 14th December 2021 after contracting Covid-19.
“Jethro leaves behind his life partner Jennie, sons Jesse and Lanyon, step daughter Sarah, daughter-in-law Stacey and of course his much loved grandchildren.
“We ask that you respect our privacy at this very sad time and give us all time to grieve.
“We will continue to support each other in the knowledge that our lives will never be the same without him.”
Jethro – real name Geoffrey Rowe – was born as the son of a farmer, first completing an apprenticeship in carpentry and working in a tin mine before turning his hand to comedy.
(Image: Cornish Guardian)
His stage name was influenced by the character of Jethro in TV sitcom The Beverly Hillbillies.
Jethro made his name with TV appearances on programmes like the Des O’Connor Show in the 90s, as well as releasing videos including A Portion of Jethro in 1993.
In 2001, he even appeared on the Royal Variety Show.
Along with his comedic skill, he was a bass singer in his local operatic society and toured pubs and clubs singing and performing comedy, as well as playing prop forward in rugby games for Penzance and Newlyn RFC.
The star was also known for his charity work, and in 1995, walked from Land’s End to Lewdown in order to raise £20,000 for a new hospital cancer scanner.
(Image: Cornwall live WS)
Jethro formally announced his retirement from public performances in February 2020 for the end of 2020, with the farewell shows eventually postponed due to the pandemic.
Tributes for the late star are already pouring in from his fans, as one posted on Twitter: “RIP Jethro. One of my favourite comedians.”
Someone else said: “RIP Jethro, a true Cornish legend and one of the funniest comedians there ever was, such sad news.”
“Just watching him on Rick Stein’s ‘Cornish Christmas’ type thing yesterday. Sad news,” another fan echoed.
While a fourth added: “Saddened to hear that Jethro has passed away. A great old school comedian who had me in stitches when I saw him. Rest in peace and thanks for the laughs.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
