The comedian has cancelled his Peter Kay Live Arena Tour due to 'unforeseen family circumstances.'

He wrote in a statement to fans: "I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all my upcoming work projects. This unfortunately includes my upcoming stand-up tour, Dance for Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments."

He added: "My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I’m sure you’ll underwent my family must always come first.

"I’ve always endeavoured to protect my family’s privacy from the media. I hope that the media and the public will continue to respect our privacy at this time. Once again, I’m very sorry."

Kay was set to play 26 dates in 11 locations across the UK in 2018 and 2019 in his first set of shows for eight years.

The Car Share star's last jaunt, which took place in 2010, still ranks as Guinness World Records’ biggest selling comedy tour of all time - playing to 1.2 million people.

The man himself said of his live return during the announcement in a statement: “I really miss it. I knew how lucky I am to be making television series and have really loved these past few years working on Car Share but I miss doing stand-up.

"As terrifying as it is, when it works there’s nothing more fun and exciting. Plus, a lot has happened in the last eight years, with Trump, Twitter and my Nan getting her front bush trimmed at the age of 96. I can’t wait to get back up on stage.”

Kay, 44, is one of the country’s most popular entertainers, having won a multitude of awards across his career in comedy and acting.

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