Jack Burns, a Scottish child ballet star and actor, best known for his role on TV shows, including Retribution and In Plain Sight, passed away on Sunday, December 1. Burns, who was widely known as “the next Billy Elliot” due to his exceptional ballet skills, was 14 years old, according to The Scotsman.
The Elite Academy of Dance, Burns’ school in Greenock, posted a lengthy statement confirming the death of the young star on Facebook:
“It is with a very heavy heart that we write this post. Tragically as you know we lost our much loved student Jack Burns on Sunday 1st of December. Jack was an inspiration to everyone at Elite and touched the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of working and dancing with him since 2012.”
Scottish police relayed that they had received a call at around 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 1. The authorities added that they were investigating the cause of death, but that they did not suspect foul play, according to the Evening Standard.
“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the exact cause of his death which police are not treating as suspicious,” the police statement reads.
People have been paying tribute to Jack Burns on social media. Many fans were saddened about the news due to his talent and young age.
Rest in Peace 14 year old Ballet Star Jack Burns from Greenock, who has died suddenly, such a young talent, achieved a place at the prestigious Glasgow Ballet School aged 9, condolences to Parents & Brother. Sleep tight Jack. pic.twitter.com/Kyd0B9J8ES
— John B Sheffield (@jaybs) December 10, 2019
This is utterly heartbreaking.? Such an exceptionally talented, handsome young man with the whole world at his feet. If it’s true he was being bullied, it’s all the more tragic.Keep dancing in Heaven Jack, you little star.God bless???x#RIPJackBurns ?https://t.co/d0dDfwblMf
— Lynne Hall ?#GlazersWoodwardOut (@lynnehall) December 11, 2019
Jack Burns #outlander R.I.P. @caitrionambalfe @SamHeughan ?????????????????? oh God. ??? pic.twitter.com/lrVaILVtTq
— SanS?? (@sansdrawing) December 11, 2019
Jack Burns bio
Jack Burns was an actor and a skilled ballet dancer.
He enrolled at the prestigious Glasgow Ballet School when he was only nine years old, according to the Evening Standard. He also attended St. Columba’s School in Kilmacolm.
Jack Burns is known for his roles as Rob on the Netflix series Retribution and as Michael Smart on ITV’s drama series, In Plain Sight.
Jack is also the brother of Rory Burns, who appeared in Starz’s drama series, Outlander. Rory played Young Roger Wakefield on the show.
Jack is survived by his parents, Karen and Robert, and his brother, Rory.