Overview

• Barry Fantoni, known for his long-standing contributions to Private Eye and British satire, died on May 20, 2025, at age 85 in Turin, Italy, from a heart attack.
• Fantoni was a key figure at Private Eye from 1963, creating iconic characters such as fictitious obituary poet E J Thribb, and shaping the magazine's satirical voice.
• He contributed to the BBC's groundbreaking 1960s programming, writing for 'That Was the Week That Was' and hosting the youth-focused 'A Whole Scene Going.'
• Beyond satire, Fantoni was a versatile artist, producing cartoons for The Times, caricatures for Radio Times, and reviews for Punch, while also engaging in music, design, and writing.
• Tributes, led by Private Eye editor Ian Hislop, highlight Fantoni's wit, creativity, and enduring influence on British media and culture.