Comedian Bobby Ball has died after testing positive for coronavirus.
The British comedy icon, who was part of beloved duo Cannon and Ball, passed away in hospital yesterday evening at the age of 76.
His manager Phil Dale confirmed his death in a statement which read: “It is with great personal sadness that on behalf of Yvonne Ball, and the family, and Tommy Cannon, I announce that Bobby Ball passed away at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on October 28, 2020 approximately 9.30pm.
“Bobby had been taken to the hospital for tests as he started with breathing problems. At first it was thought to be a chest infection but a test proved positive for Covid-19.
Bobby Ball has died after a coronavirus battle
“She said that the family and Tommy would like to express their sincere thanks to the many, many people who have been fans of Bobby and they know that they will all share in part the great loss and total sadness that Yvonne, the family and Tommy all feel.
“Yvonne added that their need for privacy at this time has to be a priority. No further announcements or statements will be made.”
Speaking about Bobby, Phil added: “Bobby was a true comedy star who loved entertaining people and he loved life itself. I spoke to him every day and it would always end in laughter.”
Bobby Ball and Tommy Cannon were an iconic comedy duo
The comedy star, whose real name was Robert Harper and who appeared on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2005 with his partner Tommy Cannon, was a staple of British comedy throughout the eighties.
Cannon and Ball were the pioneers of the variety show format and hosted their own ITV programme – The Cannon and Ball Show – from 1979-1988.
Ball then went on to star in a plethora of sitcoms, throughout the years, seeing his career span four decades.
Such shows included Last of The Summer Wine, Not Going Out, Benidorm and Heartbeat.
Bobby Ball shot to superstardom in the late seventies (Image: ITV)
Bobby also appeared on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2005 alongside Tommy Cannon – it was the year Margaret Thatcher’s daughter Carol Thatcher won.
Tributes have been pouring in for Bobby from family and fans alike.
Ball’s wife Yvonne shared a heartfelt message.
She said: “I will always miss him, he was so joyful, full of fun and mischievous.”
Tommy Cannon also paid tribute following his best pal’s death.
Bobby Ball starred in a plethora of sitcoms
He poignantly remarked: “Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated.”
Comedian Jason Manford posted: “So heartbroken to read about the passing of comedy legend Bobby Ball. Such a hilarious man. The comedy community is a poorer place without him. Red heartBroken heart #RockOn #RIPBobbyBall.”
While comedienne Diane Morgan shared: “So sad to hear about Bobby Ball. He was such a treat to work with. Never stopped making us all laugh. We’ll miss you Bobby!”
Bobby was born in Oldham, Lancashire on January 28, 1944.
He attended High Crompton Secondary School and studied Shipping Management at Wigan Mining and Technical College.
Bobby then went on to work as a welder in a factory – this would be where he met his future comedy partner Thomas Derbyshire (Tommy Cannon).
Bobby is survived by his wife Yvonne and three children.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
