Comedy agent and producer Addison Cresswell, who guided the careers of stars such as Jonathan Ross and Jack Dee, has died at the age of 53.
Cresswell, regarded as one of the most influential figures in British comedy, had negotiated the lucrative deals which once saw Ross rise to being among the highest-earners on UK television.
A spokesman said the agent and producer “passed away in his sleep at home.”
Clients of his management company Off The Kerb have included Lee Evans, Jo Brand and Alan Carr.
His production company Open Mike has been responsible for a number of popular TV shows such as Live At The Apollo, Stand up For The Week and Channel 4’s Comedy Gala.
Cresswell, seen as a no-nonsense, forceful and larger than life character by many in the industry, got his break in the entertainment industry after becoming entertainments officer at Brighton Polytechnic where he was studying.
His first client was the poet John Hegley and he began his business working from his kitchen table.
He built his empire to such a degree that his acts, who also include Michael McIntyre, often dominate TV comedy shows.
He negotiated Ross’s BBC deal which was said to be worth around £18 million over several years, and following the fall-out from the Sachsgate scandal, he took his client to ITV where he now has another successful chat show.
A spokesman said: “Addison will be fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched as a devoted mentor, a dear friend and an unforgettable character.
“He will be sorely missed.
“He leaves behind a proud legacy in his tireless charity work, initiating and organising the annual Channel 4 Comedy Gala in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital.
“It was his dearest wish to raise enough to fund the opening of a brand new wing of the hospital, a goal that is now in sight.”
He added: “He is survived by his beloved wife, Shelley,his dogs Bonnie and Nessie and many, many pet fish.”