Ewen MacIntosh, the British actor and comedian best known for playing the character Big Keith on the hit TV series “The Office,” has died at the age of 50, friends and colleagues confirmed on Wednesday.
The news of Mr. MacIntosh’s passing was first shared by Ricky Gervais, the creator of “The Office,” on Twitter. “I’m so sad to hear about the death of Ewen MacIntosh,” Mr. Gervais wrote. “He played Big Keith so brilliantly in The Office. An absolute original.”
Mr. MacIntosh made his debut as Big Keith, the drugged-out handyman at the Wernham Hogg paper company, in the first season of “The Office” in 2001. His hilarious and poignant portrayal of the eccentric character quickly made him a fan favorite on the acclaimed mockumentary series.
Beyond “The Office,” Mr. MacIntosh had a prolific comedy career in British television. He appeared in episodes of popular shows like “Miranda,” starring Miranda Hart, and “Little Britain,” with Matt Lucas and David Walliams. His most recent acting credit was in the 2017 romantic comedy film “Finding Fatimah.”
The television channel Gold, which often airs reruns of British comedy classics, paid tribute to Mr. MacIntosh on Twitter. “We loved him as Keith in The Office and were lucky enough to work with him over the years on the channel,” the channel said. “Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at such a difficult time.”
The cause of Mr. MacIntosh’s death has not been officially confirmed. However, his close friend Ed Scott shared some insight into his final days in a heartfelt post on social media.
He may have had a famous face known by millions as Keith from The Office but the person inside is what I will most remember,” Mr. Scott wrote. “Ewen was so full of empathy, kindness, and integrity and above all a really good man.”
Mr. Scott also praised the medical staff who cared for Mr. MacIntosh at the end of his life. “Thanks to the incredible care and love provided by the wonderful medical staff and especially the nurses who all loved him when he brought a smile to their days,” he said.
The world of British comedy has lost a beloved and iconic figure. Fans, co-stars, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Ewen MacIntosh will remember him not just as Big Keith, but as a genuinely kind soul who brightened the lives of those around him through his warmth and comedic talent.
