The former co-host of Absolute Radio’s Frank Skinner Show died on Friday after being involved in a car accident on March 27.
His wife Laura said in a statement that he had suffered severe brain injuries and had to be taken off life support.
Fellow comedian Jason Manford paid tribute to the “wonderfully inventive” comedian, saying he was devastated by the news of his death.
Richard’s wife thanked everyone for their support and kindness, saying their sons were “bearing up well.”
“I know Gareth was well loved, so details about his funeral and other ways to remember him will be forthcoming. At the moment, dealing with grief is difficult “She went on to say.
Richards had been a stand-up comedian since 2004, appearing ten times at the Edinburgh Fringe and on a variety of BBC TV and radio comedy shows.
For two years, he co-hosted Absolute Radio with Skinner and Emily Dean.
Skinner broke down on air last week while discussing Richards, telling listeners that the show’s team did not want to go on air without mentioning his friend.
Skinner described Richards as a “fantastic bloke,” and said he was booked after a “rubbish” pilot for the show 14 years ago.
“We couldn’t do it, so we had a guest on the next one, who was Gareth Richards – who was brilliant on here and we asked him to do the show, so for the first few years it was just me, Em, and Gareth.”
Friends and admirers in the comedy industry have paid tribute to Richards since his death.
Emily Dean, his former co-host on Skinner’s show, stated: “Gareth Richards, my hilarious, unfailingly kind, gentle, and beautiful friend, I will miss you. I’m grateful to have met you.”
