'Rock on, my good friend': Cannon & Ball star Bobby Ball dies aged 76 in hospital after positive coronavirus test as 'devastated' comedy partner Tommy Cannon leads tributes with comedian's much-loved catchphrase
Tommy Cannon said he was 'devastated' today following the death of his long-time comedy partner Bobby Ball aged 76 after testing positive for coronavirus.
The comedian, actor and author had been at Blackpool Victoria Hospital with breathing problems but passed away at 9.30pm last night.
His family initially thought Ball had a chest infection when he was taken to the Lancashire hospital, but a test found he had contracted Covid-19.
Ball's comedy partner Cannon, 82, said: 'Rock on, my good friend, I can't believe this, I'm devastated.' Ball was known for twanging his braces while saying: 'Rock on, Tommy.'
And his wife Yvonne, who praised hospital staff for being 'wonderful' in caring for him, added: 'I will always miss him, he was so joyful, full of fun and mischievous.'
Tommy Ball at the final of Britain's Got Talent in Wembley, North West London, in June 2010
Ball and Tommy Cannon at the British Soap Awards at MediaCityUK Salford in May 2013
Ball, wife Yvonne and their daughter Joanne are pictured for the Daily Mail in January 2007
Ball and his wife Yvonne on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in December 2005
Bobby Ball appears on The Alan Titchmarsh Show on ITV in London on September 15, 2014
Ball was born Robert Harper on January 28, 1944 and found fame on the The Cannon & Ball Show from 1979 to 1988 opposite his lifelong friend Cannon.
Oldham-born Ball met Cannon, real name Thomas Derbyshire, while he was working in a factory as a welder.
Bobby Ball's 40-year career in TV and film
After the success of The Cannon & Ball Show, Ball appeared in a string of TV series including as Lenny in Last Of The Summer Wine from 2005 to 2008.
He also played Topsy Turner in Heartbeat and appeared in Mount Pleasant, Benidorm and The Cockfields.
Ball played Lee Mack's troublesome father Frank in the BBC One sitcom Not Going Out from 2009 and competed in a Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special in 2012.
He also appeared in TV series including Last Of The Summer Wine, Heartbeat, Mount Pleasant, Benidorm, The Cockfields and Not Going Out.
The duo starred together in the films The Boys in Blue 1982 and Mr H Is Late in 1988, and appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2005.
He is survived by two sons, Robert and Darren, with his first wife Joan Lynn, as well as his daughter Joanne with Yvonne Nugent.
The couple, who have been living in Lytham, Lancashire, and have been married for 46 years, have 10 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Ball was patron of the local NHS Blue Skies charity and the couple recently organised a variety event which raised £30,000 towards the development of the dementia garden at Clifton Hospital in Lytham.
Ball's manager Phil Dale said: '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.
'His wife Yvonne said the hospital and staff could not have been more wonderful, as they were outstanding in their care of duty and they did everything possible for him and she cannot praise them enough.
Cannon and Ball laugh as they appear on the ITV programme Lorraine on March 27, 2018
Ball attends Bernie Nolan's funeral at the Grand Theatre in Blackpool in July 2013
Ball arrives for Norman Collier's funeral at St Helen's Church in Welton, Hull, in March 2013
Cannon and Ball are pictured out and about in London in March 2009
Comedians (from left) Ball, Frank Carson and Tommy Cannon arriving for the funeral of Bernard Manning at Blackley Crematorium in Manchester in June 2007
In November 2005, Ball took part in the fifth series of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!
Cannon and Ball both appeared in a series of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2005
Tommy Cannon and Bobby Ball pose for an ITV publicity photo in May 2001
Cannon and Ball with the mourners at Marti Caine's funeral in Sheffield in November 1995
Comedy duo Cannon and Ball are pictured together in April 1993
'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.'
Mr Dale 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.'
This Morning hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby both paid tribute to Bobby Ball on their show.
Cannon and Ball appear together in series nine of their television show in June 1988
Cannon and Ball sing together at the London Palladium in the West End on ITV in June 1987
Cannon and Balk with model Erica Preston outside the London Palladium for a photocall for the 'Babes in the Wood' pantomime in April 1987
Cannon and Ball pose for a photograph outside the London Palladium in April 1987
Cannon and Ball with guests The Nolans (left to right) Bernie Nolan, Coleen Nolan, Maureen Nolan and Anne Nolan ahead of their summer season in Bournemouth in May 1986
(From left) Ball, comedienne Marti Caine on the knee of her bridegroom, Ken Ives and Tommy Cannon, after Marti and Ken wed at Birmingham Register Office in February 1985
Ball on The Cannon & Ball Show on ITV in June 1984. The show ran from 1979 to 1988
Cannon and Ball were co-stars in the movie The Boys in Blue, pictured in November 1982
Schofield said: 'He was such a lovely man. A genuinely lovely, sweet, kind man...'
Willoughby added: 'Yes. Such a lovely man... and our thoughts are obviously with his friends and family at this time. Sending you all lots of love.'
And singer Robbie Williams tweeted: 'God bless you, Bobby Ball. Thank you for the memories and the laughter. RIP Red heart.'
Blue singer Antony Costa, who took part in I'm A Celebrity with Ball, tweeted: 'Just heard the news about my friend and fellow I'm A Celebrity contestant Bobby Ball.
'I'm devastated by the news. Thoughts go out to the Yvonne and the family. RIP Bobby Ball. So, so sad.'
Cannon and Ball preparing for their first film 'Boys In Blue', outside the Dominion Theatre in London in May 1982
Cannon and Ball outside the Dominion Theatre in London's West End in May 1982
Long-time comedy partners Cannon and Ball had their own TV show, pictured in June 1980
Cannon and Ball pose together for a portrait photograph in Manchester in 1980
Cannon and Ball, who had their own show from 1979 to 1988, pose in Manchester in 1980
Cannon and Ball are pictured in the first year of their comedy TV programme, in June 1979
Cannon and Ball in September 1978 with London Weekend Television team Jimmy Edwards, Bruce Forsyth, ex Dior model Anthea Redfern and Charlie Drake
Comedian Jason Manford said: '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. Rock On. RIP, Bobby Ball.'
And TV star Les Dennis said: 'Just heard the sad news that the wonderful Bobby Ball has died. He was a true entertainer with real funny bones. Thoughts with Tommy, Yvonne and his family at this sad time. RIP, Bobby'.
BBC radio presenter Tony Blackburn tweeted: 'So sorry to hear that Bobby Ball has passed away. He was a very funny man and gave us some good comedy over the years. RIP, thanks for the laughs'.
Shane Richie tweeted a picture of himself with Ball, saying: 'Thirty-five years ago my hero became my friend.
Hospital where Bobby Ball was treated sees highest number of beds taken up by Covid-19 patients in Britain
The hospital where comedian Bobby Ball died has seen the highest number of beds taken up by coronavirus patients in the UK, it emerged today.
A doctor at Blackpool Victoria Hospital said operations there could be axed unless coronavirus cases go down.
Blackpool Victoria Hospital in Lancashire
Dr Jim Gardner, medical director at the NHS trust which runs the hospital, said they are being overrun with patients and have been forced to cancel surgical procedures to cope.
He said there were 128 coronavirus patients on wards at Blackpool Victoria and 50 at Clifton Hospital in St Annes.
Some 18 are in the Vic's intensive care unit, though there are more fighting for their lives who tested positive more than 14 days ago. Some 21 people had died after testing positive for the virus since last Wednesday.
He said: 'That gives a sense of just how serious the situation is for the hospital and for the community at the moment.'
Blackpool's infection rate continues to grow. It now stands at 445.3 per 100,000 people, up from 314.8 the week before, with 621 new cases confirmed in just seven days.
'You always knew when Bobby was in the room, he could make you laugh and cry with just a look.
'The biggest heart and warmest smile that filled stages everywhere. I loved you Bobby Ball and I always will. Truly, truly one of a kind. Sleep well, cocker.'
And Peep Show star Neil Fitzmaurice tweeted: 'I'm on my way to The Sharpe Project.
'A place we filmed Mount Pleasant at for eight years. A place we shared love and laughter with Bobby Ball. I've just heard he's gone. Heartbroken doesn't cover it.
'A wonderful, funny, kind extremely talented gentleman. God bless you, Bobby!'
Nick Knowles tweeted: 'Sad news Bobby Ball has died. I went to see C&B when they were at the top of their game in the west end - he just had funny bones. RIP'.
Loose Women's Sherrie Hewson tweeted: 'Heartbroken that my gorgeous funny talented generous friend Bobby Ball has gone.
'He made me laugh more than anyone I know. He will be so missed by millions. He will always be in our hearts. Love you, Bobs.'
Actress Diane Morgan, who starred alongside Ball in The Cockfields, tweeted: '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,'
And Oldham Athletic tweeted: 'Oldham Athletic would like to pass on its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Bobby Ball after seeing the sad news of his passing.
'Forever remembered thanks to the iconic 'Boys In Blue' cup final soundtrack. #OAFC Cos' the Latics will do anything for Oldham.'
And a tweet from the Rochdale Hornets said: 'Rochdale Hornets is today saddened to learn of the passing of former director and comedy legend, Bobby Ball. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Bobby's loved ones'.
Qdos Pantomimes tweeted: 'It's a very sad day in Pantoland as we mark the passing of our much-loved friend, the legendary Bobby Ball.
'His comic and pantomime legacy will never be forgotten and we send our deepest condolences to his beloved family, and, of course, his best pal Tommy'.
Celebrities who have died after being diagnosed with Covid-19
The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact around the world.
High-profile figures including the Prince of Wales, Hollywood actor Tom Hanks and Prime Minister Boris Johnson are among the more than 3.5 million people who have tested positive for Covid-19.
While Charles, Hanks and Mr Johnson have fully recovered from the illness, other well-known victims have not been as fortunate.
Here are some of the celebrities who have died after being diagnosed with the virus:
- Dave Greenfield
The Stranglers's keyboard player died on May 3 and had contracted coronavirus following a prolonged stay in hospital for heart problems. A long-standing member of the influential punk outfit, Greenfield was known for his distinctive sound and playing style, using instruments such as the harpsichord and Hammond electric organ. He was 71.
- Tim Brooke-Taylor
The Goodies star died at the age of 79 on April 12 after contracting the virus. He was best known as part of the 1970s comic trio alongside Graeme Garden and Bill Oddie. Following Brooke-Taylor's death, Oddie described him as an 'extremely amiable, nice bloke'.
- Terrence McNally
A world renowned playwright, McNally's career spanned six decades and earned him four competitive Tony awards, as well as a lifetime achievement award last year. His works include the plays Love! Valour! Compassion! and Master Class, as well as the books for musicals Ragtime and Kiss Of The Spider Woman. He died due to complications from coronavirus on March 24 in a hospital in Sarasota, Florida, at the age of 81, his publicist said.
- Adam Schlesinger
The US musician was best known for being part of the band Fountains Of Wayne. Schlesinger, 52, was diagnosed with Covid-19 and went on to die in a New York hospital on April 1. Tom Hanks and Mark Ronson were among those who paid tribute.
- John Prine
The singer-songwriter, one of the most influential figures in US folk and country music, was taken to hospital on March 26 and died on April 7. A representative said his cause of death was complications from Covid-19. Prine, who earned comparisons to Bob Dylan, was 73.
- Andrew Jack
The Star Wars actor died on March 31 at the age of 76 after being diagnosed with coronavirus, according to his agent. He had appeared in Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi as General Ematt, as well as Solo: A Star Wars Story and Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. Jack was also a dialect coach.
- Fred the Godson
The Bronx-born rapper, 35, died on April 23 after being diagnosed with coronavirus. Fred the Godson, whose real name was Fredrick Thomas, had been updating fans about his fight with the illness and shared a selfie from his hospital bed. He had worked with artists including Mac Miller, Kendrick Lamar and Pusha T.
- Eddie Large
The comedian, who delighted audiences for decades as part of his Little And Large partnership with Syd Little, died on April 2 at the age of 78. He died after contracting coronavirus while being treated for heart failure in hospital.
- Mark Blum
Blum, star of films including Desperately Seeking Susan and Crocodile Dundee, died from coronavirus complications on March 25. He was 69. Madonna, who starred alongside Blum in Desperately Seeking Susan, was among those paying tribute.
- Joe Diffie
The Grammy-winning country music singer died on March 29 at the age of 61 after testing positive for the virus. He had a string of hits in the 1990s with ballads and honky-tonk singles like Home and Pickup Man.
- Ellis Marsalis Jr
The Jazz pioneer died at the age of 85 after being diagnosed with coronavirus, his son said. Marsalis Jr - described as a 'legend' of the New Orleans jazz scene - was the patriarch of a well-known musical family. He died on April 1.
- Patricia Bosworth
The actress and writer once starred alongside Audrey Hepburn and later wrote biographies of stars including Marlon Brando and Montgomery Clift. She died on April 2 at the age of 86. Her stepdaughter said pneumonia brought on by coronavirus was the cause of death.
- Bobby Ball
One half of comedy duo Cannon & Ball, Ball died at the age of 76 after testing positive for Covid-19. He was best known for the long-running smash hit The Cannon & Ball Show but recently won new fans with the BBC sitcom Not Going Out.