Tweeting on October 8, the comedian simply wrote, 'In hospital', with no further information until his death was confirmed.
Friends of the comedian confirm he died of liver cirrhosis.
Richard Bucknall, Hughes' former promoter, confirmed the death saying, 'Sean Hughes, the comedian, actor, writer and novelist died this morning in hospital. He was at the time the youngest winner of the Perrier award with his groundbreaking show and went on to a glittering career.'
Shocked friends and celebrities have paid tribute to the beloved comedian on Twitter.
This article originally appeared on New Idea.