Tributes pour in for Father Ted star Jon Kenny after death aged 66

Irish actor Jon Kenny, best known for his role as Father Liam Finnegan in the sitcom Father Ted, has died at the age of 66.

Kenny's death was confirmed by his agent, who said he died on Sunday after a long illness.

Tributes have been paid to Kenny from across the Irish entertainment industry, with many praising his comedic talent and his warm personality.

Kenny was born in Dublin in 1957 and began his acting career in the early 1980s. He appeared in a number of films and television shows before landing the role of Father Finnegan in Father Ted in 1995.

Father Ted was a huge success, both in Ireland and the UK, and Kenny's performance as the dim-witted but lovable priest was one of the highlights of the show.

Kenny continued to act after Father Ted ended in 1998, appearing in a number of films and television shows, including The Guard and Moone Boy.

He was also a regular performer on the Irish comedy circuit, and was known for his sharp wit and his ability to make people laugh.

Kenny's death is a great loss to the Irish entertainment industry. He was a talented actor and a much-loved personality, and he will be sadly missed.

Our thoughts are with Kenny's family and friends at this difficult time.