Tributes have been pouring in following the untimely passing of Co Armagh showbiz legend Rose-Marie Kane.
The 68-year-old, who hailed from Cloughogue, outside Newry, passed away at her home in Blackpool on Wednesday morning.
Rose-Marie was a well-known personality on TV and radio in the 1980s and 1990s.
A post on her Facebook page read: “It is with heavy hearts and enormous great sadness that we have to announce the sudden passing of our much loved Rose-Marie in her beloved second home of Blackpool.
“Rest in Peace, dear heart.”
The world of showbiz has been reacting to the sad news.
Singer David Alacey wrote: “Absolutely devastated by the news that the one and only Rose-Marie Kane has left us.
“We first met Rose many years ago when she came to see our show with some friends and then last year she finally joined us as our Special Guest on some shows. We last worked with her in January at Dudley Town Hall and she was in great form.
“Rose was totally unique but possessed a skill which only the very best entertainers have and that’s the ability to win an audience over as soon as you enter the stage. They instantly become mates with the performer and are totally on their side. Another legend who had this skill in bucket loads was the late great Kenny Lynch who happened to produce the first Rose-Marie album. We loved having Rose on the show and watching the amazing rapport she had with audiences…There were plans for Rose to join us again later in the year now sadly that won’t happen, but at least we have some beautiful memories of a very talented and more importantly very nice lady.”
Author and screenwriter, Samantha Lee Howe, wrote: “Such sad news. I met this gorgeous lady last year and wanted to get to know her much better. In that one night I knew she was funny, sweet and very generous.
“Over the last year and through her best friend Steven Smith, I’d had some further contact with her. When I started the film festival she was one of the first people to offer her help. She was planning to come and present one of the awards and we’d chatted about it in a lengthy fun telephone conversation. I’m really sad that she won’t be there, bringing laughter and happiness.”
Radio presenter John Hastings, added: “I am absolutely stunned to learn that the brilliant singer Rose-Marie Kane has passed away.
“Back in the 80s, I vividly remember Rose-Marie as a regular guest on many BBC & ITV light entertainment shows – her sumptous voice was matched only by her striking beauty.
“In 2017, I was lucky enough to see her own the stage in Carlisle City Centre at Cumbria Pride & I had the pleasure of meeting her backstage – she was absolutely wonderful. My sincere condolences go to her family, friends and devoted fans at this awful moment in time. Thank you Rose-Marie – pleasure to have seen & met you.
God Rest Your Soul, Always.”
Sinn Féin MLA, Liz Kimmins said she was “Shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Cloughogue native and showbiz legend Rose-Marie Kane
“Rose-marie was a household name, known for her fabulous singing voice and talent on the stage, who had millions of fans all over the world.
“My deepest condolences to her mother Ann, and the wider Kane family at this very sad time. May Rose rest in peace.”
Actress Tricia Penrose, who played Gina Ward in ITV drama Heartbeat, posted: “I am absolutely heartbroken to lose my dear friend Rose-Marie. RIP my dear heart.
“We were only together this time last week in Blackpool. I’m going to miss you so much xxx.”
Rose-Marie, who released 19 albums throughout her was in the studio recording her 20th just last Thursday, according to close friend, broadcaster Robin Elliott, who spoke to the Belfast Telegraph.
Rose-Marie was also voted most popular singer at the International Music Awards, and sold out the London Palladium on several occasions.
She was also former judge in two series of the BBC talent show Go For It.
She also appeared on The Royal Variety Show, Shooting Stars, Doctors, Big Brother’s Little Brother.
Rose-Marie served as a judge for two series of the BBC talent show Go For It.
Her other television appearances included The Royal Variety Show, Shooting Stars, Doctors, Big Brother’s Little Brother, a documentary of herself and various chat shows.
As well as her work on television she was involved in acting in several stage productions and on radio, and played Rita in the 2001 film Cold Fish.
Rose-Marie was also involved in charity work, including the promotion of road safety and charity for the underprivileged.
