Junior Simpson, who has appeared in Death in Paradise and Love Actually, has been diagnosed with vascular dementia following multiple strokes as comedy community launches crowdfunding campaign
Junior Simpson stars in the second series of Death in Paradise(Image: GoFundMe)
One of the UK’s most beloved stand-up comedians and actors has been compelled to retire from performing due to a diagnosis of vascular dementia at the tender age of 62. Junior Simpson, known for his roles in shows ranging from Never Mind the Buzzcocks to Death in Paradise, received this devastating news after suffering several strokes.
His fellow comedians have initiated a crowdfunding campaign on his behalf, which has already raised over £20,000 at the time of writing. The GoFundMe page reveals: “Emma, Junior’s wife, recently contacted Manford’s to share some very difficult news.
“Following a series of strokes, Junior has been diagnosed with vascular dementia and has had to retire from performing and writing. There will be a fundraising gig in due course, but if there’s one thing the comedy circuit has always done brilliantly, it’s look after its own.
“Junior has given so much to this industry over the years. Now it’s our turn to show up for him and his family. If you’re able to contribute, no matter the amount, it will make a real difference.
“And if you can’t, simply sharing this page will help enormously. Let’s rally round and do what we do best”, reports the Daily Record.
Vascular dementia occurs when blood flow to the brain is reduced. It’s estimated that around 180,000 people in the UK are affected by the condition.
At present, there is no cure for the disease, but treatment can sometimes help slow its progression. Junior is wedded to singer Emma Ruth, with the couple exchanging vows in May 2022, according to the Express.
He is also a father to two daughters.
Starting his career on sketch shows in the 1990s, Junior went on to secure various acting roles, including a brief stint as Milton Reynards in the second series of BBC’s Death in Paradise.
His portrayal of a wedding DJ in the beloved Christmas film Love Actually brought him recognition, a role he landed when Richard Curtis saw him perform at Brixton Academy. He told The Sun: “Being in the hit movie was a huge honour.
“I had no idea it would turn out to be such a massive hit. I still get recognised now – people often come up and ask for selfies.”
Over the years, he’s also made appearances in Casualty, Top Gear and Lily Savage’s Blankety Blank.Mr Simpson’s colleagues have been swift to express their shock and extend their support after news of his diagnosis became public.
Phil Walker posted: “So sad to hear this, shared many a bill all over the globe with Junior over the years, what a great guy.”
Mike Milligan added: “That’s so sad – so many fab memories of sharing green rooms and villas on Cyprus with him. Top act and top bloke. Wishing him all the possible best.”
Carl Hutchinson commented on how Mr Simpson supported him during a difficult time early in his career.
He remembered: “He really went to bat for me after I died on my a**e Sway Jongleurs. The other comics wouldn’t speak to me – you don’t forget when people are that nice to you.”
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