We're so sad to hear that the hilarious Bobby Ball has sadly passed away. His passing comes after he was diagnosed with COVID-19 and his death was confirmed by his manager on October 29.
A statement 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 28 October 2020 approximately 21:30.
“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.
“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.”
Leading the tributes, his close friend Cannon said: "Rock on, my good friend, I can't believe this, I'm devastated."
His wife Yvonne added: "I will always miss him, he was so joyful, full of fun and mischievous."
Bobby Ball's funeral
It couldn't be Bobby Ball's funeral without a bit of humour and mourners at the funeral of Bobby Ball paid tribute to the comedian by wearing his trademark red braces to say their final farewells.
Although the funeral was a private, invite only ceremony because of Covid-19, fans were able to line the streets near Hope Church in Lytham to pay their respects.
Celebrity farewells for Bobby
Les Dennis and Jason Manford led tributes to Bobby on their social media pages.
Bobby Ball's early life
Robert Harper was born in Oldham, Lancashire, on 28 January 1944, to May and Bob Harper.
Bobby Ball's family
Bobby married his second wife Yvonne Nugent in 1974. Together they had a daughter Joanne who was born in 1972. Bobby also shared two sons Robert and Darren which first wife Joan Lynn.
Cannon and Ball
Bobby was most famous for being one half of the comedy duo, Cannon and Ball, alongside his long-time friend and colleague Tommy Cannon, whose real names are Thomas Derbyshire and Robert Harper, began their showbiz career's as comics on the cabaret circuit in the north of England.
They soon became household names with their popular Saturday night TV show, The Cannon and Ball Show, which lasted for 11 series. We can still remember him twanging his braces, while saying: "Rock on, Tommy."
The pair later released their own comedy film, titled, The Boys in Blue.
Bobby Ball on I'm a Celebrity
Back in 2005, you may remember that Cannon and Ball appeared together as contestants in I'm a Celebrity Get me Out of Here.
What was Bobby Ball in?
As well as his comedy career alongside friend Cannon, Bobby Ball also appeared in Heartbeat, Last of the Summer Wine and most recently, TV sitcoms including Not Going Out, Mount Pleasant, Benidorm, The Cockfields and The Security Men.