'I'm very much alive' - RTÉ star responds to death rumours spread on social media

An RTÉ star has hit back at rumours circulating on social media that he had died saying "I'm very much alive".

Fair City and Mrs Brown's Boys star Rory Cowan was targeted by a hoax on Facebook last week, as a black and white picture of him was posted on the Carrigstown Community page with the caption,

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"With profound sadness, I share the loss of my dear friend Rory Cowan. My heart is heavy as I remember a wonderful colleague, a kind soul, and a true friend.

"The laughter, friendship, and memories we shared will live with me forever."

Posts such as this pop up on social media to get attention or engagement, and can spread quickly because people share them without checking.

Rory, who plays the character of Bosco Walsh on Fair City, took to social media himself to squash the cruel rumour saying,

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"EEK! They say I'm 67. Cheek!

"I know this will disappoint some of you (the 25,000+ I have blocked), but I'm very much alive and loving retirement."

Rory joins a multitude of Irish celebrities who have been targeted by the same hoax including Miriam O'Callaghan, Ryan Tubridy and his former co-star Brendan O'Carroll.