Matt Evers has paid tribute to Willie Thorne following his tragic death.
The late snooker legend – who was diagnosed with leukaemia in March and placed in an induced coma over the weekend after suffering respiratory failure – sadly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday (17.06.20), and now his former ‘The All New Monty’ co-star has paid his respects.
Sharing a sweet group snap from the ITV show, he wrote: "To the peaceful giant who would always leave us Monty boys crying with laughter with your subtle one liners…
"Rest In Peace Willie. Sending love and light to your family #legend (sic)"
Last year, Willie joined dancer Matt as they trained for their own rendition of ‘The Full Monty’ to support cancer research, led by Alexander Armstrong and Ashley Banjo.
Several other TV stars have also paid tribute to Willie, including Sky Sports’ ‘Soccer Saturday’ presenter Jeff Stelling.
He wrote: "To wake to the news of the death of Willie Thorne today is simply terrible. I spent many many hours with him. He was a charming man, great company, a brilliant player and commentator and , of course, always immaculately turned out. He has gone far too soon. (sic)"
Gabby Logan posted: "So sad to hear about the death of Willie Thorne. I loved watching his career, we made friends on Strictly Come Dancing where he was the loveliest ‘team mate’. (sic)"
And numerous snooker players past and present have paid their respects.
Snooker legend Dennis Taylor wrote on Twitter: "Devestating news about Willie Thorne. We laughed our way around the world for 45 years. RIP Great One. That was my name for him. The Great WT. Lots of love to his family (sic)"
Ronnie O’Sullivan wrote: "Just want to say what a beautiful man, big heart great company. Had a week in ireland with him I’ll never forget. Will be missed by a lot of people in the Snooker world. RIP WT (sic)"
Neil Robertson tweeted: "So sad to hear about the passing of Willie Thorne last night. One of the games great characters and will be missed greatly RIP (sic)"
In 2007, Willie also competed on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ alongside Erin Boag, although the pair were voted out just three weeks in.
The sad news of his death was confirmed on Wednesday by his friend and carer Julie O’Neill.