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Matt Lucas's ex-partner 'had battled addiction'
7 Oct 2009
The ex-partner of comedian Matt Lucas was battling drug addiction when he apparently killed himself, it was reported today.
Kevin McGee was reportedly found hanged in his Edinburgh flat on Monday morning after posting a message on the internet which said: "Kevin McGee thinks death is much better than life."
Despite undergoing treatment at a rehab clinic last summer paid for by Little Britain star Lucas, Mr McGee was unable to kick a cocaine habit, The Sun newspaper reported.
Lucas yesterday withdrew from a West End role as a suicidal writer following the news of his former boyfriend's death.
He played Kenneth Halliwell in Prick Up Your Ears, which ends as Halliwell murders his lover Joe Orton and prepares to take his own life.
A statement from the producers of the play, which is being staged at The Comedy Theatre in central London, said: "Our thoughts are with Matt whom we are in constant touch with.
"Until further notice, his role of Kenneth Halliwell in the West End production of Prick Up Your Ears will be played by his understudy, Michael Chadwick."
Police found Mr McGee's body at his flat after they broke in at 8am.
The television producer, who married Lucas, 35, in a civil partnership ceremony in December 2006, had posted his message on Facebook three hours earlier.
He previously worked for London-based production company Carbon Media.
A statement from the firm said: "Kevin McGee worked at Carbon Media in the past and remained very close to the company's heart.
"All at Carbon Media wish to send our deepest condolences to his family and friends."
A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
A statement read: "Police were called to an address in Bruntsfield Gardens around 8am yesterday morning where a 32-year-old man was found dead.
"There are no suspicious circumstances and a report will be sent the procurator fiscal."
According to reports police were alerted by a friend and went to Mr McGee's flat where his body was discovered.
The former couple met before Lucas hit new heights of success with the BBC comedy series Little Britain.
They tied the knot in a civil partnership ceremony and celebrated with a panto-themed reception with guests including Elton John, Will Young and Paul O'Grady.
Their relationship ended in 2008 and their union was officially dissolved in January this year.
A spokesman for Lucas declined to comment.
A Crown Office spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that we have now received a report into the death of Kevin McGee.
"This report is now being considered by the Procurator Fiscal."
Reader views (2)
Drugs claim another life. Another story is Robbie Williams talking about how drugs nearly killed him. When will people realise what drugs, both illegal and legal strong prescription drugs, can do. They should not be glamorised in the press and held as fashion accessories by celebrities. Drugs = death, simple. RIP Micheal Jackson, Kevin Mcgee and many many others.
- Dannyp, Egham, 08/10/2009 08:15
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Thinking of you Matt mate.
Kevin's at peace now.
- Selwyn, espom, 07/10/2009 07:33
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