Ronnie Corbett, best known for his work in comedy duo The Two Ronnies alongside long-time friend Ronnie Barker, has died aged 85.
The comedian had been suffering with ill health for some time, with his publicist confirming his death today. A statement reads: “Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation’s best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family.
“They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time.”
Corbett’s comedy career took off in the late 1960s, with him appearing in The Frost Report alongside Barker. The pair then went on to develop their own show, with them developing their own material and writing their own sketches. The Two Ronnies is widely regarded as one of the best British TV shows of all time, with it having been hugely influential on UK comedians.
Following the announcement of Corbett’s passing, a number of comedians posted tributes to him on Twitter:
I was lucky enough to meet Ronnie Corbett a few times and he was a lovely man. A great comedian and a real gentleman. RIP.
— David Mitchell (@RealDMitchell) March 31, 2016
RIP the lovely, funny legend Ronnie Corbett. It was an absolute honour & joy to have known him.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) March 31, 2016
Goodbye my friend and comedy idol #RonnieCorbett Thank you for all the laughs. It was the greatest honour to know and work with you.
— David Walliams (@davidwalliams) March 31, 2016
So saddened that Ronnie Corbett has passed away. A truly great comedian, a great man and a great friend. He was one of the special ones. RIP
— Rob Brydon (@RobBrydon) March 31, 2016
Ronnie Corbett, may he rest in peace. A beautiful, brilliant man.
— Hugh Laurie (@hughlaurie) March 31, 2016
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Anne Hart, and their two actress daughters, Emma and Sophie Corbett.
