Actor and comedian Junior Simpson has stepped away from the stand-up circuit after receiving a vascular dementia diagnosis at the age of 62.
The comedian and actor, who has entertained audiences for more than two decades, was forced to retire following a series of strokes that led to the condition.
His wife, Emma, recently reached out to Manford’s Comedy Club to share the heartbreaking news about her husband’s health.
Vascular dementia occurs when blood flow to the brain becomes restricted, and it affects approximately 180,000 people across the UK.
Junior Simpson opposite Danny John-Jules on Death in Paradise
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BBC
There’s currently no cure for the condition, though treatment can sometimes help slow its progression.
Mr Simpson married singer Emma Ruth in May 2022 and has two daughters.
The comedy community has wasted no time in rallying behind one of its own.
Peter Vincent, who helps run Manford’s Comedy Club, launched a GoFundMe page to support Mr Simpson and his family during this difficult time.
Junior Simpson played Milton Reynards in the BBC drama
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BBC
The response has been overwhelming as the fund has now surpassed £20,000, smashing its original target of £5,500.
On the crowdfunding page, Mr Vincent wrote: “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.”
The money will go towards day-to-day needs and care-related costs as Mr Simpson navigates his diagnosis.
Mr Simpson built an impressive career across television, film, and the live circuit over more than 20 years.
Junior Simpson pictured in 2004
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GETTY
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Audiences will recognise him from appearances on Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Lily Savage’s Blankety Blank, Richard & Judy, and The 11 O’Clock Show.
He also took a Cadillac Escalade for a spin alongside Richard Hammond on Top Gear.
Film fans might remember him as the wedding DJ in Love Actually, a role he landed after Richard Curtis spotted his stand-up routine joking about the lack of diversity in Notting Hill.
In the second season of the long-running BBC drama-comedy, Death in Paradise, Mr Simpson starred as Milton Reynards.
Junior Simpson is best known for his acting and comedy work
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BBC
Born in Leagrave near Luton, Mr Simpson went on to perform at festivals worldwide, including Edinburgh Fringe, Reading, and Brighton, as well as touring South Africa and Australia regularly.
Mr Simpson’s colleagues have been quick to share their shock and offer support.
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 recalled how Mr Simpson helped him through a tough moment early in his career: “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.”
A benefit gig is now being organised to provide further support.