Paul Sneddon, the legendary Scottish stand-up comedian widely recognized for his alter ego Vladimir McTavish and football manager character Bob Doolally, has died at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. His passing was confirmed on July 1, 2026, by The Stand Comedy Club Glasgow, just weeks before he was scheduled to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
The Stand Comedy Club Announces Sneddon's Death
The Stand Comedy Club Glasgow announced the news in a heartfelt statement on its official Instagram page, describing his profound impact on the comedy scene and his character off stage. The statement read: 'It's with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Sneddon known to so many as Vladimir McTavish & Bob Doolally. Paul has been a vital part of The Stand since we began and much treasured and loved part of the comedy scene for many years. He was as known for his kindness, encouragement and generosity as he was for his immense talent. He made every green room brighter, every line-up funnier and the world a nicer place to live in. We are broken at the loss of our dear friend and will in time be marking his life appropriately. For the time being, all our thoughts are with his family: Christine and his girls Julia and Rosie, as well as his many many friends and fans during this time.'
Cancer Battle and Chemotherapy
Sneddon had been undergoing chemotherapy treatment in recent months prior to his death. He had been scheduled to perform his show '2026 and the s***t hits the Fan for Vladimir McTavish' at the Edinburgh Fringe next month, a performance that will now not take place. His absence will be deeply felt by his audiences who had looked forward to seeing him return to the stage.
Fellow Comedians Pay Tribute
Following the announcement, fellow comedians shared heartfelt tributes, remembering Sneddon not only for his sharp wit and stage presence but for the warmth and generosity he showed behind the scenes. Comedian Frankie Boyle wrote: 'Just a great guy, and such an inclusive person. Made everyone feel welcome... A great comic, a privilege to have known him, love to his family.' Stuart Jay Murphy commented: 'There is absolutely no way to overestimate how great his contribution to Scottish comedy has been. Not just in terms of his own work but also regarding his inexhaustible support for younger comedians... He will be much missed.' Billy Kirkwood stated: 'Heartbroken to hear this. Paul wasn't just a brilliant comedian, he was one of those genuinely rare people who made everyone around him feel welcome, with the biggest heart... The world feels a little less bright without him in it. Rest easy, Paul.' Tom Stade reacted: 'Paul was not only a great comic, a fabulous friend and he was also one of the OG's of Scottish comedy... goodbye you fabulous human you were absolutely spectacular.' Gareth Mutch said: 'The nicest man. The funniest man. He leaves a legacy that will never ever fade... A pillar of Scottish comedy. Rest easy.'
Legacy in Scottish Comedy
Sneddon's death leaves a significant gap in the comedy world and entertainment industry, where he was regarded as a veteran performer with decades of influence. His characters Vladimir McTavish and Bob Doolally had become beloved staples of Scottish comedy, and his support for emerging comedians helped shape the scene for years to come.
