Instantly recognisable Manchester comedian Frank Sidebottom has passed away after a battle with cancer.
On the modern comedy scene it seems that no one wants to stand out. Personality, a sense of individuality seems somewhat lacking. Not so with Frank Sidebottom.
Hailing from Manchester, comedian and musician Chris Sievey built a new persona. Wearing a sharp 1950s style suit, Sievey built an enormous papier mache head styled like an early Max Fleischer cartoon.
Becoming a cult hero, the character was unfailingly optimistic. Living at home with his mother, his deeply Northern sense of humour made him a hero on the indie scene during the 80s.
Peppering his performances with songs, Frank Sidebottom enjoyed getting the audience involved. While most comedy of the late 80s and early 90s was sharp, political led and 'alternative' Sidebottom seemed family friendly - if completely bizarre.
The comedian gained the respect of the wider entertainment world though. Frank Sidebottom sang 'Being For The Benefit Of Mr Kite' on the charity album 'Sgt. Pepper Knew My Father' compiled by the NME.
The album also starred Billy Bragg, Sonic Youth and The Fall. Falling into obscurity in the late 90s, a live comeback failed to boost his profile.
However Frank Sidebottom remained a hero in Manchester where his image was used on the test card for Channel M. Suffering from cancer, the comedian recently gave an interview to the Manchester Evening Times in which he seemed hopeful for the future.
Sadly, yesterday (June 21st) Frank Sidebottom / Chris Sievey collapsed at his home. Taken to hospital the comedian died, aged just 54.