13:08 06 October 2009
Matt Lucas' former husband, Kevin McGee, has hanged himself at his home in the Bruntshead area, it has been reported.
Police had rushed to the scene after a friend alerted officers regarding a message on his Facebook profile which read: "Kevin McGee thinks death is much better than life."
His death comes just 10 months after his divorce from 'Little Britain' comedian Matt Lucas.
A friend of the pair told The Sun: "Matt was floored when he heard the news. He always loved Kevin despite their differences and their difficult marriage.
"Matt is utterly destroyed by this."
Lucas arguably became the first gay celebrity 'divorcee', when their 22 months civil partnership was dissolved on the grounds of McGee's 'unreasonable' behaviour. It was reported in the press that Lucas objected to McGee's drug problems.
A source told The Sun: "Kevin found it really difficult to deal with Matt's fame.
"Being thrust into the world of A-list parties and free booze and drugs was hard.
"Matt is a pretty down to earth guy and never touches drugs.
"Cracks started to show in the marriage because as much as Matt loved Kevin he couldn't deal with his behaviour."
The star has pulled out of starring in the West End play 'Prick Up Your Ears' upon hearing the news.