Frank Twomey died from a short illness

Former presenter of the popular Irish kids show Bosco, Frank Twomey, has died from a short illness, his family have confirmed.

The Cork-born presenter was a man of many talents over his long career - a comedian, television personality, and theatre producer.

He was, however, best known for his presenting role alongside the red-headed puppet Bosco in his eponymous show throughout its original run in the 80s, and far beyond that in the form of repeats well into the 90s.

Twomey played Bosco's loyal sidekick, who helped the puppet through his many adventures throughout the show.

With a career spanning five decades, Twomey made a name for himself as a master of satirical and slapstick comedy, appearing in many pantos in Cork's Everyman Theatre.

The Everyman posted on their X account saying: "We are greatly saddened to hear of the passing of Frank Twomey.

Sad to hear the passing of Frank Twomey. A fine theatre and film actor but more importantly, for any child of the 80s, a friend of our most important red head. pic.twitter.com/mbVCrR5mPE

— Eric Hennelly Flanagan (@EricHFlanagan) December 11, 2023

"A true Cork legend, he appeared on our stage many times and will be fondly remembered as the much-loved dame in The Everyman and CADA’s Christmas Panto. May he rest in peace."

The Cork man also starred in RTÉ comedy shows Bull Island and Nighthawks and was well known for his impressions of Irish politicians including David Trimble and Willie O'Dea.

Twomey, who was gay, appeared in a Dublin Bus Advert that ran during Pride Month in 2019 wearing rainbow face paint and waving pride flags.

In an interview with RTÉ the following year, he said that the 1980s were marked with "naked prejudice but it didn’t stop me being gay", adding that he said it was an era where he was "careful and discrete because I had a Government job."

Paying tribute on X, Tanaiste Michael Martin said: "Very sorry to hear of the passing of Frank Twomey A proud Cork man, Frank brought joy to many across generations with his work on Bosco, Bull Island, Nighthawk & on stage. Renowned for his sharp wit & humour, he was a versatile & brilliant performer."

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