Tributes pour in for Mr Gaiety
Comedy hero Johnny Beattie remembered by theatre
Theatre goers mourned the loss of a Scottish showbiz giant who famously said“Let there be Gaiety.”
Known as Mr Gaiety himself, veteran theatre star and River City actor Johnny Beattie died at the age of 93 last Thursday.
The much-loved star is said to have passed away peacefully after a short spell at St Margaret’s Hospice.
Gaiety favourite Johnny was a pillar in securing the Ayr town’s theatre’s future when it was threatened with closure in 2009.
Johnny had entertainment etched in his bones and during his incredible 63-year career he was a stand-up, film and TV actor, presenter, panto dame, soap star and even rapper.
Tributes flooded in from local actors who shared fond memories of meeting Johnny and the words of wisdom he bestowed upon them in their early careers.
A Gaiety spokesperson said: “The Gaiety family are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Scottish performer, Johnny Beattie.
“Known as Mr Gaiety by Ayrshire folk, Johnny graced the stage in many, many Gaiety Whirls and pantos.
“We will remember him, not only as one as one of the great Scottish variety performers but for his unwavering support and campaigning when the theatre was threatened with closure in 2009.
“As Johnny once said ‘Let there be Gaiety’ – a legacy from a true giant in Scottish theatre. “Our thoughts are with his family.” MSP John Scott said: “Many people in Ayrshire hold a particular affection for Johnny Beattie and will be very saddened to learn of his passing.
“As a fixture at Ayr Gaiety, his Gaiety Whirl was an institution locally, and many will remember what a huge supporter of the theatre he was when its future was in doubt.
“Johnny’s passing is certainly the end of an era, but he will be remembered warmly by generations of local theatre-goers.”
MP Allan Dorans added: “Really sad to hear of the passing of Johnny Beattie who will always be remembered as one of the great Scottish entertainers for his personality, humour and unfailing commitment to the Gaiety Theatre. Rest in peace Johnny.”
The former Govan shipyard worker first got into showbiz after joining an amateur dramatic show in 1951.
His many performances over six decades of entertainment established him as one of the giants of Scotland’s comedy scene alongside Rikki Fulton, Jack Milroy and Stanley Baxter and also earned him an MBE.
Johnny was married for 33 years to wife Kitty who passed away from cancer in 1993 following their separation in 1985.
The couple had four children including Maureen, who went on to star in Casualty, and Louise, who quit acting to become a solicitor, along with sons Paul and Mark.