Matt Lucas play to close three weeks early

Matt Lucas play Prick Up Your Ears has been scrapped following poor ticket sales after the actor pulled out of the production.

The Little Britain comedian cancelled his appearance following the suicide of his ex-partner Kevin McGee just days into the show's London run.

Star Con O'Neill was drafted in to finish the jaunt but low ticket sales have now forced the production to close three weeks early, Sky News reports.

A statement from its producers said: "Despite very good feedback and notices for Con O'Neill's performance, the box office sales have not been sufficient to keep the show going. And so the producers have taken the difficult decision to close the show three weeks prior to its scheduled end date."

The last performance of Prick Up Your Ears at the capital's Comedy Theatre will take place on November 15.