Marvelous Mrs. Maisel actor Josh Grisetti has died aged 44 after taking his own life, with devastated friends leading tributes to the much-loved Broadway performer. The actor's death was announced by friend and fellow Broadway star Rob McClure, who shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday.

He wrote: "It is with a shattered heart that I share that the brilliant Josh Grisetti took his own life on Friday. I'm not ready to even attempt to understand. My heart is with his wife and family as they try to deal with the reality of this."

McClure described the tragedy as a "cataclysmic loss" and reflected on years of friendship, recalling playing Josh's brother on stage, watching him inspire students and standing beside him as best man at his wedding.

He added: "Maggie and I are beyond heartbroken. Communities around the world will never be the same without him. We love you Josh."

Grisetti was best known to television audiences for playing Ralph Emerson in eight episodes of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in 2023, while theatre fans knew him from Broadway productions including Something Rotten! and It Shoulda Been You.

Away from the stage, he was also a respected educator, leading California State University, Fullerton's Musical Theatre programme after teaching at several other colleges.

His screen credits included The Good Fight, Nurse Jackie, The Knights of Prosperity, The Namesake, The Immigrant and Revolutionary Road.

Just days before his death, Grisetti shared what would become his final Instagram post after stepping away from directing Legally Blonde: The Musical at the Trentino Music Festival in Italy for "personal reasons".

He wrote: "When you have to leave a production for personal reasons before getting to see the show open... Literally cried on the plane... little gestures go a long way when your heart is hurting. Love this group of misfits right back. Happy opening, Legally Blonde. I'm so proud of you all."

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the theatre world, with actress Donna Murphy describing the news as "truly devastating and heartbreaking", while Ariana DeBose offered her "sincerest sympathies". Actress Sierra Boggess remembered him as a "brilliant actor and director and writer", while Erika Henningsen thanked him for changing her life and inspiring generations of performers.

Grisetti is survived by his wife, Mackenzie, whom he married six years ago.

Whatever you're going through, you can call the Samaritans free at any time from any phone on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org