Michael Boyd described as 'giant in our industry' as tributes pour in

Others to pay tribute to Boyd included comedian Craig Ferguson and playwright Tanika Gupta.

“Deeply sad to hear this news,” Ferguson said. “He was a beautiful man and a massive talent. He got me started and I owe him so much. So long, Michael. You were awesome. Really.”

Gupta described Boyd as a "giant in our industry, beautiful man and fabulous director", adding: "I will always be in his debt for encouraging me as a writer. Thinking of his family."

Christopher Haydon, artistic director of London’s Rose Theatre, said: “Michael had been a mentor to me for several years. We had been talking about him coming to make a show at Rose Theatre.

“Such a kind and thoughtful man. He wore his tremendous achievements so lightly. I will miss his friendship and guidance hugely.” 

John Haidar, associate director at Theatre Royal Plymouth, added: “Growing up, we didn’t go to see plays. Then, my English teacher took our class to see Henry V, directed by this brilliant man, who I met years later.

“It’s clichéd to talk about productions that ’change your life’, but his Histories did. I went back and saw the lot.”