Tributes paid to ‘brilliant, lovely’ actress Danika McGuigan after she loses cancer battle

Amy Huberman, Jack Reynor and Stefanie Preissner have led the tributes to actress Danika McGuigan, following the news of her death earlier today.

Her family confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that she had passed away earlier this week, after a "brief but brave battle against cancer". In the statement, issued to RTÉ via her acting agency, the McGuigan family said:

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beautiful daughter and sister, Danika 'Nika' McGuigan. "After a brief but brave battle against cancer, Nika passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, 23 July, surrounded by her loving family. As a family we are devastated and ask for complete privacy during this difficult period to allow us to grieve for our Nika".

Danika, who was also known as Nika, starred as Danielle in Can't Cope Won't Cope. The series' creator Stefanie Preissner led the tributes to the "brilliant, lovely" actress, as she shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the show.

Shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Nika McGuigan- the brilliant, lovely, Danielle in Can’t Cope Won’t Cope wouldn’t have been the same without her. Deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. Xxx pic.twitter.com/cDo5fXClzV

— Stefanie Preissner (@StefPreissner) July 24, 2019

Deeply shocked and saddened at the devastating news about the talented, fantastic, shining Nika McGuigan. Heartbroken for all her family and friends. Rest In Peace Nika xx

— Amy Huberman (@amyhuberman) July 24, 2019

We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Nika McGuigan’s untimely passing. She was one of our 1st students at The Factory & her unique talent, energy and smile was a constant inspiration. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to her family at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/VfQ7OPXv9J

— Bow Street (@12bowstreet) July 24, 2019

This is so devastating to hear. Nika was such a talented actress. In the short time I spent with her on set she was nothing but kind, and had a clear dedication to her role. My thoughts are with her family. https://t.co/X3WTKVXU9f

— Natasha Waugh (@cinemaster17) July 24, 2019

I was lucky enough to work with Nika McGuigan a few years ago and she was one of the kindest, funniest and most talented people I’ve ever met. It’s a heartbreaking loss. Sending all my love to her family.

— John Bradley (@johnbradleywest) July 24, 2019