Phoenix Nights star Justin Moorhouse has announced the devastating death of his son Barney, sharing the heartbreaking news in a deeply emotional public statement that has left fans and fellow comedians stunned.
The comedian and former Coronation Street actor, 55, confirmed that Barney passed away peacefully in his sleep, describing the loss as unimaginable and admitting the family is “beside ourselves with grief.”
In a moving tribute shared on social media, Justin described his son as “the sweetest, kindest soul,” emphasising that Barney knew just how deeply loved he was by his parents, siblings, extended family and close friends.
“He was happy, content and excited about the future,” Justin wrote, reflecting on a life filled with promise that ended far too soon.
“I am consoling myself as much as I can knowing that he loved us all and knew we loved him.”
Justin added that love would be the force helping the family endure the days and weeks ahead, as they begin to process a loss no parent should ever have to face.
Tributes From the Comedy World
Following the announcement, tributes quickly poured in from across the comedy and entertainment industry.
John Bishop shared a heartfelt message, remembering Barney as a kind, joyful boy who grew into someone his family could be immensely proud of. He said there were no words capable of easing such pain and sent his love to Justin and his family.
Actor Steve Evets, who worked alongside Justin in Looking for Eric, also expressed his condolences, acknowledging the depth of the family’s grief and offering his support during what he described as a terrible and shattering loss.
Fans have also flooded Justin’s social media with messages of sympathy, support and love, many urging the family to take all the time they need to grieve in private.
Justin Moorhouse’s Career
Justin Moorhouse rose to national fame as Young Kenny in Peter Kay’s iconic sitcom Phoenix Nights, which first aired in 2001 and remains one of Britain’s most beloved comedy series.
He later appeared in Looking for Eric alongside Eric Cantona, became a familiar face on Coronation Street as Dean Upton between 2014 and 2015, and built a successful career in stand-up comedy and radio.
His television credits also include Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Celebrity Mastermind, Still Open All Hours, and his own BBC Radio 4 series, Everyone Quite Likes Justin.
A Family in Mourning
Despite decades in the public eye, Justin’s statement made clear that this moment is not about fame or career — but about the loss of a beloved son.
He ended his tribute with a simple, devastating farewell to Barney, while gently asking for kindness, privacy and sensitivity as the family mourns.
As tributes continue to pour in, the focus remains on a young life lost too soon — and on a father, a family, and a community coming together in grief and remembrance.