Viral comedian Steve Bridges dies aged 41 as wife shares heartbreaking video

Viral comedian Steve Bridges' wife has shared the tragic news that he has passed away aged 41.

The US comedian's wife of 16 years Chelsey shared a heartbreaking TikTok video on Steve's channel, revealing the dad-of-three died in his sleep at home on Wednesday (15 October).

US comedian Bridges was known for his skits on everyday situations, parodying people at tattoo shops, parties and motels.

Chelsey's emotional three-minute video has been watched nearly six million times, with comments expressing shock at the news and commiserations with the family.

Bridges, from Illinois, had two million followers on TikTok where he shared skits, playing various personas often complete with wigs, make-up and other props.

Wife Chelsey wrote in the most recent video: "He’s really gone."

She said: "I’m really sorry to get on and tell you this, this way. I think if I wait any longer, I’m not going to be able to do it.

"Who you saw online was just the characters that he created. He was so talented because he was the opposite of all of them.

"He was the most attentive father, and the best, the best husband. And the greatest, sweetest man. And thanks to you internet, he’s been able to live his dream of making people laugh. I am so thankful that he got to do that.

"I’m not going to tell my children that they can’t grieve online. I will probably grieve online too. This is life now."

Chelsey urged people to take care of themselves, adding: "Please never take it for granted and try to live your dreams every day. Love your family."

One of the tributes came from Bridges' friend and filmmaker Eric Mathis who wrote: "This is one of the worst announcements I could ever have to make. Steve was an incredible talent beloved by millions of fans across the world, he was part of our tight knit film family, he was a husband and a father to 3 young kids. At 41, he is gone way too soon.

"Everyone who had the pleasure, the absolute pleasure of meeting Steve, they all loved him. He was so kind, so genuine, so passionate about his art, and infectious in his many amazing traits.

"We are all in shock, we grieve with his family, and we are all heavy with the weight of his loss. Steve made us all laugh, he became part of my core film team, and the world really lost an amazing man with his passing.

"Please keep Steve, his family, and his many MANY friends in your thoughts. Rest easy brother.. You are forever our 'Mikey'."

A GoFundMe was set up to offer support to the family, raising more than $47,000 (£35,000) at the time of writing. You can donate here.