The star of the cult MTV show Dirty Sanchez, Mike Locke, also known as Pancho, has died at the age of 47.
The Welsh stuntman was best known for his part in the hit MTV show, known as the ‘UK’s version of Jackass’, alongside fellow Matthew Pritchard, Lee Dainton and Dan Joyce.
He helped launch the prank show in 2003, which ran for four seasons, filming in Newport and locations across the UK.
Described as a harsher version of Jackass, it focused on the group inflicting pain on themselves and each other through dangerous stunts.
The series had two MTV spinoffs, as well as its own film and stage show. Mr Locke and Mr Pritchard also famously appeared as the ‘Pain Men’ on Channel 4‘s Balls of Steel.
In recent years, Mr Locke found success in the creation of the Welsh clothing brand San Portablo, alongside his friend, Nigel Hunt.
In a heartbreaking tribute posted on the brand’s website, his family wrote: ‘It is with profound sadness that San Portablo and the Locke family write of the passing of the father, son, brother, uncle, friend, skater, stuntman and all round goodfellaMicheal Richard Locke.
‘Affectionately known as Pancho to the world, an absolute Welsh Treasure and San Portablo King.
‘His brilliance we are sure will still shine through far wide high low and across the seven seas.
‘He lived an incredible life and lit up the world with his charm. The shop will be closed today.
‘Rest In Peace brother, your legend will never cease, it will only gain momentum.’
The star of the cult MTV show Dirty Sanchez, Mike Locke, also known as Pancho, has died at the age of 47
The stuntman was best known for his part in the hit MTV show, known as the ‘UK’s version of Jackass’, alongside Matthew Pritchard, Lee Dainton and Dan Joyce
Stand-up comedian Sando Ford also paid tribute, posting on Instagram: ‘Devastating news on the passing of Mike (Pancho).
‘People might know him from the TV stuff, but he was much more than that; he was a clever, hilarious, and loyal person.
‘He and Nigel backed me from my early days of stand-up, telling people to come to the shows I ran early on in the Surge, the Red Lion, and Afan Ales.
‘They didn’t expect anything in return, just doing it because they wanted to and believed in me.
‘He would also travel to open mics with me just to watch me die on my ass and laugh about it on the way home. Sending my love to his family, Nigel, and the gang at San Portablo.’
This is a breaking news story. More to follow.
