A TRAGIC young actor was found dead the morning after he missed the premiere of his first big screen film.
Jamie Stuart Morrison’s body was found by his mother in his flat on Whitson Way in Edinburgh on Tuesday morning.
The 27-year-old had recently landed a role in Skeletons – a short movie directed by Craig-James Moncur.
The film got its well-received first showing at the Edinburgh Filmhouse on Monday night at an event attended by notable figures from the Scottish film industry.
Mr Moncur, whose TV acting credits include Looking After JoJo, said they had tried to reach Jamie on the night only to learn of his death the following morning.
Talented
The talented actor and singer had starred in a range of plays over the past few years, including the hit theatre production the Edinburgh Gang Show.
He also played Rod Stewart in a Showcase Musical Production last year.
Mr Moncur said: “Less than 24 hours before we heard the devastating news of Jamie’s passing, an audience filled the Filmhouse in Edinburgh and admired his wonderful performance.
“Unfortunately Jamie did not make the screening. We had tried getting in touch but only heard of his passing the day after.
“Jamie’s unique ability to make others smile shone through on the big screen, and that is one of the many things we will all miss about him.
Tragic
“Jamie had an infectious enthusiasm that really rubbed off on others. Not only did he have the gift of being a talented actor, equally important he made people laugh.
“For something so tragic to happen to someone so young is absolutely heartbreaking. It has still not sunk in that we will not hear his booming voice or his unique laugh again. Jamie was someone that left a lasting memory with everyone he met and everyone on our cast and crew are devastated by this loss.”
Jamie’s father, Tam, 55, said: “We have no idea what has happened or how he died. I’m in total shock and disbelief. I don’t think it’s sunk in yet.
“I last saw him a few weeks ago. Whenever I saw him he was always happy. Acting was his life and he has played everything and everyone.
“He was looking forward to the premiere of the new film which he was in.”
He added: “On social media there have been some people who have suggested suicide, but that makes me really angry. We have no idea what happened and some people are jumping to conclusions.
“It could have been anything. My side of the family has a history of heart attacks – it could have been that. We just don’t know and it could be up to a week before the autopsy is complete.”
Tributes
Hundreds of tributes have poured in for Jamie, who has been described as a “top guy” who was “loved by all”.
His sister, Jodie, 26, paid tribute to her beloved brother on social media. She said: “Jamie I love you. I’ll never stop loving you.
“Thanks for all the support from everyone I just can’t really say much right now, in shock.”
A police spokesman said: “Police attended an address in Whitson Way on Tuesday 26 November to reports of a man’s body.
“A 27-year-old man was found dead. There are no suspicious circumstances and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.”
