Neil Reading, a prominent UK publicist known for representing celebrities such as John Cleese and Dawn French, has passed away at the age of 56.
As reported by The Sun, which included several tributes, Reading succumbed to a brief illness.
He was the founder of Neil Reading PR, a public relations agency that he opened in 1992, focusing on the entertainment and lifestyle sectors. His firm quickly became a notable name in the UK’s entertainment industry.
Among Reading’s distinguished clientele were John Cleese of Monty Python fame, Lenny Henry from The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, renowned British comedian Dawn French, humorist Jason Manford, and the late Victoria Wood, a cherished figure in comedy.
Dawn French expressed her heartfelt tribute to The Sun: “Neil Reading was truly unique—a compassionate, wise, and honorable man, embodying the qualities of a true gentleman in every sense of the word, and simply extraordinary. What started as a professional relationship evolved into a deep and trusting friendship. He was my steadfast supporter and fierce defender for many years. I am at a loss for how to carry on without him. Sleep well, my dear friend.”
Jason Manford also shared his sentiments, saying, “To call Neil merely my PR manager does him an injustice. He was a trusted friend for nearly two decades, a confidante, and one of the most loyal, upright, and exceptional men I have ever met.”
Neil Reading is mourned by his wife Claire and their daughter Rosa.
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