Bill Bailey has revealed how fellow comedian Sean Lock was still joking right up until his tragic death on Wednesday.
The 8 Out Of 10 Cats star died from cancer at the age of 58.
His death shocked fans after he kept his battle with the disease out of the public eye.
But close pal Bill, 56, has told how Sean appeared to be in good spirits in the days before he passed away.
Bill said: "Even in his last few days, we were still having a laugh, still joking, still coming up with ideas. We had great conversations. I brought in my guitar and sang him his favourite Johnny Cash songs."
The Strictly Come Dancing winner also tweeted his condolences, describing Sean as his "dearest friend" who was a "true original" and a "wonderful comic".
Another friend of Sean's, comedian and TV presenter Harry Hill also paid tribute to the star and remarked on the humour he shared in his final days.
Harry told The Telegraph: "He struggled with [the illness] – he went through all the same emotions anyone in that position would experience.
"But he was stoical about it. Because he was so bright, he read up on all the latest treatments. He knew much more about that side of medicine than I ever did."
And Harry told how Sean had called him from a hospice. "I asked him what it was like, and he said: “It’s okay actually and the sex is amazing."
Sean's death was confirmed in a statement from his agency Off The Kerb Productions on Wednesday, which said: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Sean Lock.
"He died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family.
"Sean was one of Britain's finest comedians, his boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work, marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy.
"Sean was also a cherished husband and father to three children. Sean will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
"We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children is respected at this difficult time."
Fans and famous faces were quick to pay their respects to the star following the announcement.
Among those taking to social media to offer their condolences was Jimmy Carr. The 8 Out Of 10 Cats presenter admitted he had been in tears watching old clips of his friend.
The 48-year-old wrote on Twitter : "Brutal news about Sean Lock today.
"I loved him. I’m watching clips of him right now - laughing & crying. I’ll miss him so much."
And his "rival" on the hit show Jon Richardson explained how he "idolised" Sean. He wrote: "I idolised Sean as a comic long before I became a comedian myself and ten years working alongside him didn’t diminish that in the least.
"An incredible comic brain and a truly unique voice. I’m devastated for his family today and sad for comedy that we have lost one of the very best.
"Undisputed, undefeated carrot in a box champion. I will miss him."
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