Comedian Maddy Anholt dies of brain cancer, aged 35

The comedian Maddy Anholt, who had her own BBC Radio 4 show, appeared in numerous TV comedies and published a self-help book, has died aged 35, her family has announced.

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of Maddy Anholt, our beloved daughter, sister, twin, friend, wife and mother, who left this world on Wednesday 13 September, aged 35,” said a statement.

“You may know that shortly after the birth of her incredible daughter Opal last year, Maddy was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. She handled the ensuing surgery and treatment with astonishing grace and courage, accompanied every step of the way by her family and devoted husband, Ben. She spent her final weeks at her parents’ home, bathed in love and calm, and with the sounds of nature all around.”

Anholt’s acting appearances included in the TV comedies Sunny D, Jerk and The Emily Atack Show. Her BBC Radio 4 comedy series No Smoke was co-written with Hardeep Singh Kohli and featured two people trying to save a failing vape cafe in Dundee.

Last year, she released How to Leave Your Psychopath: The Essential Handbook for Escaping Toxic Relationships, a self-help book about abusive relationships published by Pan Macmillan. After its release, she was invited to become an ambassador for Women’s Aid. She led masterclasses on topics such as public speaking for clients including the Guardian.

Her family said: “We are overwhelmed with gratitude to the many friends who have upheld us with their love and prayers during this difficult time, as well as the countless nurses, doctors and the NHS as a whole, who treated her with unfailing dignity and compassion. In particular, we would like to thank the magnificent team at Seaton Hospice at Home, who are the embodiment of empathy, professionalism and love.”

Anholt’s family’s statement came via a GoFundMe page set up to help raise money for her daughter. They are asking members of the public to light a candle in Anholt’s memory at 6pm on Saturday.