Art critic Brian Sewell dies, aged 84
The controversial critic has passed away aged 84, it has been confirmed.
Sewell – who was the art critic at the London Evening Standard for more than 30 years – was well known for his outspoken and often controversial views.
Last year, he criticised same-sex marriage – despite being openly gay himself.
“Since the institution of civil partnerships there has been no impediment to their celebration with a party as extravagant as any wedding, but not all homosexuals are so exhibitionist,” he said.
“Most of us are content with what we now have within the law, and are happy to respect the deeply held belief of sincere, thoughtful and informed Christians for whom marriage is the one sacrament in which we cannot share.”
Sewell had previously caused controversy for complaining that soaps have too many gay characters – accusing the BBC of spreading “sexual propaganda” to children.
He also attacked Ian McKellen and Derek Jacobi’s gay sitcom ‘Vicious’ – labelling it as nothing more than a “spiteful parody”.
Earlier this year, he wrote his first children’s book at age 83 because he said he thinks children lack curiosity.
The White Umbrella is based on a true story.
20 years ago Sewell attempted to save a wounded donkey while working in Peshawar, Pakistan and the event is still on his conscience.
Discussing his reasons for writing the book, he said: “I find young people – even in their twenties – have absolutely no interest in what is going on about them.
“I hope they will be encouraged to be curious about things.”
A cause of death is yet to be confirmed, but Mr Sewell had openly discussed his ongoing battle with cancer.
