Tony Knight, a comedian from the United Kingdom who was also known as the Dog Listener, passed away in an unexpected accident at a festival in France, Deadline reported.

Members of the media were informed by a member of Knight's family that the musician had been "tragically killed" in June while he was attending the Rock'&'Cars Festival in Lavaur, France.

"He was only 54 and having the time of his life," they shared. "He was fit, healthy, happy and had everything going for him. He was charismatic, funny, passionate and so very loved by [his partner] Hayley, his family and his friends all over the world."

More Reports

Knight and numerous other attendees at the festival were struck by an enormous tree branch, according to French media reports. However, Knight was the only person who did not survive.

Besides his status as a comedian, Knight was also recognized for his work as a "Dog Listener."

His website describes Knight as having "helped thousands of dog owners all over the world solve problem dog behavior with simple techniques that use no force, pain, domination, drugs or gadgets."

His Career

Knight's comedy show, Mad Dogs and an Englishman had been performed at venues in Australia and other countries, and Allen wrote that Knight was about to embark on a tour of shows throughout the United Kingdom.

The shock of the comedian's death was compounded by the relatively young age at which the performer was taken.

“We are beyond devastated that his life was taken by a freak accident,” Allen added, “an accident that we are all still trying to comprehend.”

A Tribute

A few days after Knight's passing, his partner Hayley uploaded a post on Instagram in which she paid tribute to him.

“He was an exceptionally talented man, with so many strings to his bow,” she wrote, offering a look into the pain she has suffered since her partner's death.

“There really was nothing he couldn’t do. He was a fantastic friend to so many, an amazing dog Dad….but most of all he was my world & it will never be the same without him.”

She concluded her comments with a nod to Knight's talent and career, saying, “He would probably end this with a joke, but that was his talent & not mine….he really did see the bright side of every situation. I’m truly heartbroken & in shock."

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Hayley Wright (@takingthelead)