Emily Atack is heartbroken after announcing the death of her beloved Uncle Steve.

The comedian and actress often posted pictures with her uncle – who was dubbed a Richard Gere lookalike – on social media. Taking to Instagram, the 33-year-old former Inbetweeners star shared the tragic news Steve had passed away.

Posting more snaps of them together, Emily told her 1.9 million followers: “It breaks my heart to say on Friday we lost my beautiful uncle Steve. I often shared photos and stories with you all on here about him because I simply adored him. Everybody did. The smartest and funniest soul you could ever wish to have in your company. Always sharing his talents and love for music, cooking, hiking and writing. He appreciated every single day he was here, his zest and enthusiasm for life was infectious. I am truly blessed and honoured to have some of my most treasured memories with you Uncle Steve aka ‘Uncle Beef’, The Mountain Man. The light of our lives.”

She ended the heartfelt post by saying: “I love you so much and I will miss you beyond belief. May you live on through the music and the mountains. Rest easy my wonderful Uncle Beef.”

Emily posted a heartfelt tribute to her Uncle Steve, who sadly died on Friday (
Image:
Instagram/emilyatack)
Fans noticed Emily's uncle Steve was a dead ringer for Hollywood star Richard Gere (
Image:
Instagram)

Emily stopped short of saying how her uncle died, but her followers and famous pals rushed to offer their condolences in the comments underneath.

Laura Whitmore wrote: “Ah I’m sorry Emily! Lots of love. Rest in peace Steve” followed by a love heart emoji. Vicky Pattison wrote: “So sorry em, sending my condolences to you and your family.”

Fans also sent well-wishes with one writing: “I’m so sorry for your loss. Uncles can be the best, the extra dads that enrich our lives. I have been blessed to have had – and lost – several, so my heart goes out to you xxxx.” Another wrote: “Ah, I’m so sorry for your loss @emilyatack your photo memories show how much you adored him xxx.” A third added: “Emily, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. It’s the memories that you hold close that keeps him in your head and heart always!” “Emily, so sorry for your loss. Looked like an amazing guy,” a fourth commented. While a fifth added: “Emily, big hugs and love at this sad time Xx.”

The sad family news comes a few days after Emily revealed she had been nominated for another award for her documentary Emily Atack: Asking for it? In the BBC show, Emily addresses the hundreds of inappropriate messages she gets a day from men, including d*** pics and abuse.

But rather than letting the trolls dampen her spirit, the actress continues to be herself, talking openly about sex, relationships and looking for love. She said she won’t let the sexual harassment stop her from posting revealing snaps online or taking on sexy acting roles. Emily told the Mirror: “I am cheeky, I am flirty… I still want to play sexy roles. I should be able to do that without the sexual harassment and abuse.”

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