Veteran Scottish comedian Paul Sneddon, known by his stage names Vladimir McTavish and Bob Doolally, has died at the age of 70 following a battle with cancer.
The news was announced on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
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The Edinburgh-based performer was a mainstay of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for 30 years. He recently served as joint chair of The Stand Comedy Club alongside Jay Lafferty.
The Stand Comedy Club released a statement mourning the loss of the long-standing circuit veteran, who was scheduled to perform two shows at the upcoming festival in August.
“He was as known for his kindness, encouragement and generosity as he was for his immense talent,” the club said.
The venue highlighted his positive presence in the comedy community over decades.
“He made every green room brighter, every line-up funnier and the world a nicer place to live in,” the statement added.
The club expressed deep grief and extended sympathy to his partner Christine and daughters Julia and Rosie.
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“We are broken at the loss of our dear friend and will in time be marking his life appropriately,” they said.
Fellow entertainers shared tributes. Frankie Boyle called him “just a great guy, and such an inclusive person.”
Boyle said he loved introducing Sneddon under his stage personas over the years.
Susan Calman described him as “an icon and legend. The nicest of people and a wonder on stage.”
Tom Stade noted Sneddon was “one of the OG’s of Scottish comedy, one of the giant shoulders we stand upon.”
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Sneddon also worked as a columnist for the Edinburgh Evening News. His scheduled Fringe performances included a show about his chemotherapy treatments and a Scotland-focused showcase.
