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Danika McGuigan death: Daughter of boxing legend Barry dies from cancer, aged 33

‘After a brief but brave battle against cancer, Nika passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday 23 July’

Jacob Stolworthy
Wednesday 24 July 2019 08:11 EDT
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Danika "Nika" McGuigan with her father Barry in 2011
Danika "Nika" McGuigan with her father Barry in 2011 (Rex Features)

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The daughter of former boxing champion Barry McGuigan has died, aged 33.

Actor Danika McGuigan – known as “Nika” – died after a short battle with cancer, the family announced in a statement.

“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,” the statement read.

“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 was the only daughter of Irish boxer McGuigan and his wife Sandra. The couple have three sons.

At 11, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoid leukaemia but recovered from the illness after two years of treatment.

Danika appeared in several films and TV shows, including Jim Sheridan’s The Secret Scripture alongside Rooney Mara and Midsommar star Jack Reynor.

She also appeared in RTE series Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope.

The Dublin-based talent agency that represented McGuigan said: “Nika was an incredible and versatile talent who lit up our screens with her undeniable presence, sensitivity and superb comic timing.

“We will miss her very much and our thoughts are with her friends and family at this difficult time.”

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