Bobby Ball, half of the double act comedy Cannon & Ball alongside Tommy Cannon, has died aged 76 after testing positive for Covid-19
A statement said: ‘It is with great personal sadness that on behalf of Yvonne Ball, family and Tommy Cannon, I announce that Bobby Ball has passed away at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on October 28, 2020 around 9:30 p.m.
« Bobby had been taken to hospital for tests as he was starting to have breathing problems At first it was thought to be a lung infection, but a test came back positive for Covid -19 «
He continued, “His wife Yvonne said the hospital and staff couldn’t have been more wonderful because they were exceptional at their jobs and they went out of their way for him and she can’t. congratulate them enough
‘She said the family and Tommy would like to express their sincere thanks to the many people who have been fans of Bobby and they know that they will all share in part the great loss and utter sadness that Yvonne, the family and Tommy all feel
« Yvonne added that their need for privacy at this time should be a priority No further announcements or statements will be made »
Ball was born Robert Harper on January 28, 1944 and found fame at the Cannon and Ball Show opposite his lifelong friend Tommy Cannon
As a duo, they also starred in The Boys in Blue together in 1982 and guest in Eric Sykes’ burlesque film, Mr H is Late in 1988
Tributes have already arrived, with comedy partner Tommy Cannon writing today: « Rock on, my good friend I can’t believe it I’m devastated »
He tweeted: « So sorry to read comedy legend Bobby Ball passing away Such a hilarious man The comedy community is a poorer place without him #RockOn #RIPBobbyBall »
In a statement Ball’s wife Yvonne said: « I will always miss him, he was so cheerful, full of fun and mischievous »
Ball manager Phil Dale said: « Bobby was a true comedy star who loved to entertain people and he loved life itself. I talked to her every day and it always ended with laughter «
After the variety show, Ball appeared in various sitcoms and dramas, including Last of the Summer Wine, Heartbeat, and Not Going Out
In 2005, the actor took part in the fifth series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! alongside Cannon
Ball has a daughter Joanne with his wife Yvonne Nugent, as well as two sons, Robert and Darren, with his first wife Joan Lynn
Bobby Ball, Tommy Cannon, The Cannon and Ball Show, Coronavirus
News from around the world – GB – Cannon and Ball star Bobby Ball dies at 76 from Covid 19
SOURCE: https://www.w24news.com