Ronnie Golden, The Young Ones and Spitting Image Star, Dies at 78 Ronnie Golden, the comedian and musician known for The Young Ones and Spitting Image, has died at 78. His partner Grace Carley confirmed he died peacefully. Ronnie Golden, the comedian and musician also known as Tony De Meur, has died at the age of 78. He died peacefully on Sunday afternoon while his partner, film producer Grace Carley, was out walking their dog. Carley confirmed the news in a statement released on Monday. In her statement, Carley said that without any fuss or bother, he simply slipped away. She noted that it would be an enormous shock, as it was to her, but she is consoled by his complete lack of pain or suffering.Early Career and The Young OnesRonnie Golden, born Tony De Meur, first rose to fame as a singer and guitarist in the new-wave group The Fabulous Poodles in 1975. The band toured the United States and included bassist Richie Robertson, violinist Bobby Valentino, and drummer Bryn Burrows.After the band split up, Tony enjoyed a successful comedy career. He worked on the alternative comedy circuit, both solo and as part of The Comic Strip, and adopted the stage name Ronnie Golden.He appeared in episode two of the 1980s sitcom The Young Ones alongside Rik Mayall and Ade Edmondson. His character was seen hanging upside-down from the ceiling as Buddy Holly, still in his parachute.He later featured in the iconic satirical TV show Spitting Image, further cementing his place in British comedy.Tributes from the Comedy WorldTony's partner Carley invited his friends and colleagues to share their memories. Musical comic Steve Gribbin wrote that it was such sad news about the death of a comedy legend, a very funny act, an excellent musician and an all-round good fella. He recalled that every year he would see him at the Comedians' Christmas Party and his eyes would always light up.Gribbin described him as a brilliant raconteur who loved his music with a rare and incandescent passion. He added that he was a very funny man and a lovely human being, and sent his heart out to Grace and all his family.Comedy circuit star Charmian Hughes wrote that Tony had been in her performing world for as long as she had been doing it, and that long before that she saw the truly Fabulous Poodles at St Andrews university. She said they shared so many bills and a true comedy friend. She added that his domestic bliss with Grace was beautiful to behold and sent her hearts and love.Peter Grahame, who runs Downstairs At The Kings Head in Crouch End, said that it was still sinking in and that he felt he had known Tony for ever. He sent his thoughts to Grace, his friends and family, and added a humorous note that the Stannah Stairlift has a new passenger today and he bet Barry has a few gags about the afterlife ready.A Lasting Legacy in British ComedyRonnie Golden leaves behind a rich legacy in British entertainment. From his early days with The Fabulous Poodles to his memorable roles in The Young Ones and Spitting Image, he was a unique talent who bridged music and comedy.His work on the alternative comedy circuit and his collaborations with fellow comedians have left an indelible mark on the industry. He will be remembered for his wit, his musicianship, and his warm personality.He is survived by his partner Grace Carley and his family. The comedy world mourns the loss of a true original.