Surrounded by his wife and two children, comedian, Ronnie Corbett passed away this morning.
Despite previous scares, such as collapsing in 2012 and gall bladder problems in 2014, Corbett remained strong.
The comedian was best known for his role in ‘The Two Ronnies’ alongside Ronnie Barker in the 70s and 80s, and made a name for himself in the sitcom ‘Sorry!’
Corbett was born in Edinburgh in 1930 to his baker father William Balfour and mother Annie Elizabeth. He was the eldest member of his family, with a brother six years younger and sister 10 years younger.
The actor decided against going to university and instead pursued his dream career in acting – a love which formed while he attended a church youth club.
But his dreams were put on hold when he had to do compulsory national service in the RAF – during which he became the shortest officer in the British Forces at the time at 5ft 1ins. After his National Service ended in the 1950s he moved to London to finally pursue his career as an actor.
‘The Two Ronnies’ was sparked when Corbett worked alongside Ronnie Barker in ‘The Frost Report’ on the 1960s as the only non-university graduates. In 1971, Barker asked him to feature in the comedy sketch series The Ronnie Barker Yearbook and it then became noticeable that the pair were meant to be.
He was awarded a CBE in the 2012 New Year Honours for his services to charity and the entertainment industry. At a celebration to mark the award, Corbett collapsed in a restaurant in January, but recovered. Afterwards, he admired his medal – which matched his blue and pink striped tie – saying: ‘It’s very pretty. It’s a very lovely honour. I shall treasure it.’
When called one of the nation’s best-loved entertainers, Corbett said of his iconic status in 2013, ‘I do find the national treasure thing very touching. Actually, it brings a tear to my eye when people call me that.’
He was also among more than 200 celebrities and public figures who urged Scotland to stay part of the UK ahead of the country’s historic vote on independence in September 2014.
Ronnie Corbett will be remembered as an excellent entertainer who was one half of one of the most successful comedy duos. He is survived by his wife Anne and two daughters, Emma and Sophie.
Well, it’s goodnight from us; and goodnight from him…