According to the Irish Daily Mirror, the legendary comedian Brendan Grace is battling lung cancer.

The news was announced that the 68-year old had cancelled his 2019 summer tour after receiving the diagnosis.

A spokesperson for Brendan Grace told the Irish Daily Mirror: “Brendan Grace has been in hospital for the last four weeks receiving treatment for pneumonia.

“It has now transpired that he is also suffering from cancer for which he is receiving ongoing care and treatment.

“His family are a great support to him at this difficult time and respect for their privacy would be much appreciated.

“His current July/August Irish Tour has been cancelled.

“Brendan is still in hospital and will be remaining there for ongoing treatment. He is hospitalised in Ireland.”

Brendan Grace, one of Ireland's most beloved comedians, has been living in the United States with his wife Eileen and family, but still tours Ireland regularly.

Last year, Grace opened up about his health problems in a critically acclaimed RTE documentary, Brendan Grace: Funny Man.

The programme featured tributes from Michael Flatley, Brendan O’Carroll and football legend Paul McGrath, who sung the praises of Brendan Grace and talked about his career in comedy.

Speaking about his health issues, Brendan said: “I got diabetes, it was a bit of a blow to me.

“Eileen often said to me about the diabetes, that she wished it was her who got it because she would be better able to discipline herself into the right thing to do, whereas I’m inclined to throw caution to the wind.

“I’ve stopped playing the guitar because I had to use pressure on my fingers for the guitar and I don’t use a guitar on stage now.”

We're sending all our best wishes to Brendan Grace and his family at this difficult time.