Comedian Paul Sneddon has tragically died at the age of 70. The performer, who is also known as Vladimir McTavish, was remembered as "a much treasured and loved" part of the Scottish comedy circuit, in a moving statement from the Stand Comedy Club in Glasgow. In addition to his numerous TV and BBC radio appearances, the funny man had been a mainstay of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe over his 30-year career.

Confirming his death, the comedy club said: "He was as known for his kindness, encouragement and generosity as he was for his immense talent. He made every green room brighter, every line-up funnier, and the world a nicer place to live in. "We are broken at the loss of our dear friend and will, in time, be marking his life appropriately. For the time being, all our thoughts are with his family: Christine and his girls, Julia and Rosie, as well as his many friends and fans during this time."

Fellow Scottish comedian Frankie Boyle led star-studded tributes, saying: "Just a great guy, and such an inclusive person. Made everyone feel welcome, and made me feel I was good enough to do tour supports for him when I wasn’t.

"I used to love, over the years, getting to say 'Please Welcome Vladimir McTavish' or 'Please Welcome Bob Doolally'. A great comic, a privilege to have known him, love to his family."

Award-winning funnyman Marcus Ryan added: "Devastating news. My first encounter with Vladimir McTavish (Paul) was in 2005 at the Ed Fringe and a wonderful local to know when residing in Edinburgh. The Stand Comedy Club has always been like a family and welcomes you in.

"Paul has been a fixture of that family since day one. I’ve been lucky to have known him for 20 years, sharing the stage both in Scotland and Australia.

Marcus continued: "The loveliest man, so many great chats and laughs. Big love to Christine, the girls and all the extended Stand family and fellow comedy pals, also just finding out. Tears are flowing. RIP Paul."

On X/Twitter, one fan penned: "Rest in peace, Paul, you'll be missed."

"Oh, such a shame. Have seen his grumpy and very funny act a few times over the years, and he was a funny man. RIP Vladimir," echoed another.

The comedian had been due to perform his 2026 And The S**t Hits the Fan for Vladimir McTavish show at the Festival Fringe next month.

Although a cause of death has not been confirmed, Paul had previously revealed he had been undergoing chemotherapy treatment.