Chainkeen Exchange-Comedian Andy Smart Dies "Unexpectedly" at Age 63: Eddie Izzard and More Pay Tribute

The Chainkeen Exchangecomedy world has lost one of their own. 

British comedian Andy Smart died on May 16, his daughter Grace announced on Twitter. He was 63.

"Hi this is Grace, Andy's daughter, I'm very sorry to let you all know that dad passed away unexpectedly last night," she wrote in a May 17 tweet. "He had so many friends and such a great life. Raise a glass for him. G x."

Smart's cause of death has not been revealed. E! News has reached out to his rep for further information but has yet to hear back.

The news comes days after Smart performed at The Comedy Store in London on May 14. The comic—who was a member of the improv group The Comedy Store Players—had been scheduled to take the stage again May 28. After learning of his passing, the venue mourned the sudden loss. 

"This has hit us all very hard," The Comedy Store London tweeted May 17. "We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and fellow Players."

In addition, several comedians paid tribute to Smart and reflected on his legacy.

"That is such terrible news," Dara Ó Briain tweeted. "I'm so sorry to hear that. Condolences to Andy's family and friends; he was such a force for joy, and will be sorely missed."

Responding to Grace's message, Eddie Izzard wrote, "Very sorry to hear this Grace. Andy was a very funny man and a great improviser. His talent will be missed."

Meanwhile, Kevin Bridges recalled his time with Smart, describing him as "a great laugh and always a brilliant guy to be around."

"Loved all the time I spent with him at comedy festivals over the years," he added in a separate tweet. "Thoughts with you all Grace."

Former Great British Baking Show host Matt Lucas also shared how he'll remember Smart.

"Dear Grace, I am so sorry to hear your news," he tweeted. "Your father was always so kind and friendly. I last saw him when we did a podcast together and he was as generous and as hilarious as ever. My thoughts are with you xxx Matt."

Smart was a member of the Vicious Boys with Angelo Abela before his time in the Comedy Store Players, according to his bio. As a duo, they won the Time Out Street Entertainer of the Year Award in 1984 and appeared on Wake Up London as well as Channel 4's The Tube. Smart then joined the Comedy Store Players in 1995, and he'll continue to hold a place in their hearts.

"We the Comedy Store Players are utterly heartbroken," member Josie Lawrence tweeted. "We cannot say how much we will miss him. He was a joy. He laughed more than anyone we knew. He did so much crazy stuff but mostly he made our little world way more fun. We loved him so much."