SÃO PAULO, SP (FOLHAPRESS) Ewen MacIntosh, actor who was part of the cast of the original version of “The Office,” produced in the United Kingdom and shown between 2001 and 2003, has died at the age of 50.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved comedic genius, Ewen MacIntosh. His family would like to thank everyone who supported him and especially Willow Green Care Home. There will be a private cremation for family and close friends as well as a memorial to celebrate him later this year,” the company that managed the actor announced on social media.
The cause of death was not disclosed. MacIntosh has struggled financially over the past decade due to difficulty finding new work. Two years ago, health problems arose that led to hospitalization.
In the British “The Office” the actor played Keith Bishop, an inexpressive accountant. The series propelled him to stardom, making its creator and protagonist Ricky Gervais one of the most recognizable names in comedy and inspiring an even more successful American version.
“Extremely sad news. The very funny and friendly Ewen MacIntosh, known to many as 'Big Keith' from 'The Office', has died. An absolute original. Rest in peace,” Gervais wrote on social media. The two also worked together on the series After Life: Vocês Vaá Ter de Me Engolir.
MacIntosh's resume also includes appearances in the series Little Britain and the Yorgos Lanthimos films The Lobster. He dies, leaving behind his parents, Sara and Ewen MacIntosh Sr., and his brother Colin MacIntosh.