Death in Paradise star diagnosed with dementia at 62 as he's forced to retire

One of Britain's best loved stand-up comics and actors has been forced to retire from the circuit after being diagnosed with vascular dementia at the age of just 62. Junior Simpson, who has starred on everything from Never Mind the Buzzcocks to Death in Paradise over the years, received his diagnosis after suffering a number of strokes.

A crowdfunder has now been set up in his name by fellow comedians, and at time of writing has raised more than £20,000. The GoFundMe bio reads: "Emma, Junior's wife, recently contacted Manford's to share some very difficult news. Following a series of strokes, Junior has been diagnosed with vascular dementia and has had to retire from performing and writing.

"There will be a fundraising gig in due course, but if there's one thing the comedy circuit has always done brilliantly, it's look after its own. Junior has given so much to this industry over the years. Now it's our turn to show up for him and his family.

"If you're able to contribute, no matter the amount, it will make a real difference. And if you can't, simply sharing this page will help enormously. Let's rally round and do what we do best."

Junior is married to singer Emma Ruth, tying the knot in May 2022. He has two daughters.

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After starting on sketch shows in the 1990s, Junior went on to land various acting roles, including a spot as Milton Reynards in Death in Paradise. He became a well-known face when he played a wedding DJ in hit Christmas film Love Actually, a role he secured when Richard Curtis saw him perform at Brixton Academy.

He told The Sun: "Being in the hit movie was a huge honour. I had no idea it would turn out to be such a massive hit. I still get recognised now - people often come up and ask for selfies."

He's also starred in Casualty, Top Gear and Lily Savage's Blankety Blank over the years.