Ant & Dec and Piers Morgan lead tributes to BGT’s Ian Royce after he dies at 51

Celebrities have paid tribute to the late comedian Ian Royce after he died from “severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.”

A statement on the Britain’s Got Talent and X Factor star’s Twitter earlier today, written by daughter Roxanne, told that he was surrounded by loved ones when he died.

Now his showbiz pals have made their feelings known.

Ant & Dec, close mates of the funnyman, offered their sympathies: “We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce.

“He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family.

“RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X.”

Ian had performed as a warm-up act for both BGT and The X Factor.

Last year he thanked Ant & Dec for helping to foot the bill for his rehab stint at The Priory, and credited them, as well as other friends and his girlfriend, with saving his life.

BGT judge Amanda Holden likewise sent her condolences: “So sad to hear this darling. Thinking of you and your mum.”

Good Morning Britain’s Piers Morgan also penned a heartfelt tweet, who worked with Ian on BTG, America’s Got Talent, and his Life Stories show.

“RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce,” Piers wrote, “Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry.

“Worked with him on @BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne.

“Thank you for all the laughs mate.”

Meanwhile, Ben Shephard offered: “Roxanne I’m so sorry to hear this – I had too many wonderful hilarious times with him, he was one of the best at what he did, a great mate and gave the BEST hugs ever.

“Sending you all loads of love. Xx.”

Rylan Clark-Neal, of Gogglebox, Big Brother and Supermarket Sweep fame, tweeted: “Can’t believe Roycey has passed away. A gent. And a big shoulder to cry on on XFact. RIP Roycey x.”

Vernon Kay recalled all the good times: “We had some unbelievable laughs over the years. I will miss you big guy! RIP.”

Myleene Klass told Roxanne that Ian had opened up his heart to her, writing: “I so sorry to hear this news Roxanne. He was extremely kind, loving and supportive to me and my girls.

“I will raise a glass tonight to this extraordinarily talented, kindhearted, loyal man.”

“So so sorry to hear this news x,” offered Aled Jones.