Scottish Artist and Playwright, John Byrne, Dies at 83

Scottish Playwright, John Byrne, known for his work on the BBC series Tutti Frutti and the Slab Boys theatre trilogy, dies at the age of 83, His wife, Jeanine, was by his side during his final moments.

Born in Paisley and a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art, Byrne’s creativity knew no bounds. His debut play, “Slab Boys,” drew inspiration from his stint in a carpet factory’s color rooms and later graced Broadway with a star-studded cast featuring Kevin Bacon, Sean Penn, and Val Kilmer.

The beloved BBC series “Tutti Frutti,” depicting the escapades of an aging rock’n’roll band touring Scotland, earned six Baftas and starred Robbie Coltrane and Emma Thompson.

Beyond the realm of theater, Byrne showcased his mastery as a painter, creating iconic self-portraits and designing theater sets and album covers, notably for friends like Gerry Rafferty and Billy Connolly.

In recent years, his mural work adorned the ceilings of the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh and a special piece in Glasgow commemorating Connolly’s 75th birthday. His paintings found a home in prestigious galleries, including the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery.

Scotland’s cultural figures, including Humza Yousaf, the Scottish first minister, and Nicola Sturgeon, paid tribute to Byrne’s immense contributions. Sturgeon, who received a Christmas card designed by Byrne during her tenure as the first minister, hailed him as a “supremely talented playwright and artist” and one of Scotland’s most vital cultural voices.

In a heartfelt response to the news, contemporary artist Alison Watt expressed sadness, remembering Byrne as “supremely gifted” and “the most stylish man” she had ever met.

The late artist spent many years in the Highlands with Oscar-winning actor Tilda Swinton, raising twins, including actor Honor Byrne-Swinton, who recently starred alongside her mother in the film “The Souvenir.” Byrne’s passing leaves an indelible void in Scotland’s artistic landscape, with his legacy celebrated by those who admired his extraordinary talent and warm personality.