“With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen MacIntosh. His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home,” read the statement.
No cause of death was announced, but JustRight noted that there will be a private cremation for family and close friends soon and a celebratory memorial service later in the year.
Gervais, who starred alongside Macintosh in The Office UK between 2001 and 2003, wrote on social media that the death was "extremely sad news".
“The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP,” he added.
Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as 'Big Keith' from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP. pic.twitter.com/Hhd3zkRVMs
— Ricky Gervais (x-on:rickygervais) February 21, 2024
MacIntosh's character on The Office UK, Keith Bishop, was known for deadpanning. The character was the focus of several famous episodes, including "Big Keith's Appraisal," in which Gervais' office manager, David Brent, went over his strengths and weaknesses.
UKTV channel Gold, which often runs repeats of The Office, said in a statement: “We at Gold are saddened to hear that Ewen MacIntosh has passed away at the age of 50. We loved him as Keith in The Office and were lucky enough to work with him over the years on the channel. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at such a difficult time.”
According to IMDb, Macintosh's most recent role was in the 2023 indie horror film Nightmare on 34th Street. He has also appeared in films such as Drew Cullingham's Shed of the Dead, Steve M Kelly's The Bromley Boys and Raza Mallal's Snapshot Wedding. Series roles include appearances in the British comedy series Little Britain, Lead Balloon and Miranda.
