'Inspiring' character loses his battle with cancer

Comedy agent Michael Taylor has died at the age of 48 following a two-year battle with cancer.

The larger-than-life character specialised in representing international acts, including Swedes Magnus Betnér, Fredrik Andersson and Tobias Persson.

Writing an obituary for Chortle, Persson said: 'Mick adored comedy as an artform, but most of all he loved to just hang out with comedians, swop silly jokes, stories and make people feel good. Nothing more, nothing less. 

'In a business becoming more cynical, predictable and money driven he really stood out as whirlwind of optimism, ideals and wearing his heart on his sleeve. 

Another client, Norwegian Dag Sørås, wrote on his blog: 'To this day, I don't know if I've ever met anyone with as much faith in my comedy as Mick. He really hated every kind of hack act, and the amount of work and loyalty he put into the comics he worked with was above and beyond.

He left us too early, but by all accounts, the man lived a life! So here's to a genuine character with a big heart and the guts to follow that heart. I'm glad our paths crossed, if only for a brief time.'

And Anderson said: 'You were obnoxious, intense, loving, supporting, generous, careless and fearless, entertaining and inspiring. You will be missed my friend. I'm so glad I got to know you.'

Taylor's wife Sherry broke the news of his death on his Facebook page, saying: 'His life was short, but he touched so many lives and influenced and loved a multitude of people. His love was boundless, his friendship unmeasurable, his love of the art of comedy and skill in recognising real talent, second to none. His love for his family would never waiver under any circumstances and our love for him boundless.'

After setting up his own company, Taylor went on to work for Comedy Cafe Management from 2010 to 2012, when he returned to his own company, Mick Taylor Management and signing up comics such as America's Lee Camp and Australia's Nick Sun to represent in the UK.

Published: 3 Mar 2015