Russell Howard announces death of newborn son and launches foundation

Comedian Russell Howard has announced the death of his newborn son, Felix, who passed away shortly after birth earlier this year. Howard and his wife, NHS doctor Cerys Morgan, had chosen to grieve the loss privately and had not previously disclosed their pregnancy.

In a statement shared on social media, Howard expressed deep gratitude to the NHS staff for their compassion, specifically highlighting a bereavement midwife named Lauren. He noted that the use of a ‘cool cot’ allowed the couple to spend precious final hours holding and talking to their son.

To honor Felix’s memory, the couple is establishing The Felix Foundation. The charity aims to support families affected by miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, neonatal death, and related bereavements. The foundation intends to provide grants for specialist bereavement training for midwives and offer emotional and practical assistance to grieving families.

A fundraising event, the Stand-Up Gala, is scheduled to take place at London’s O2 Arena on February 8 to support the foundation’s launch. The event is expected to feature various comedic colleagues.