Cannon & Ball star Bobby Ball dies at 76 after testing positive for Covid-19

BOBBY BALL, one half of the double-act comedy Cannon & Ball, died at the age of 76 after testing positive for Covid-19, his manager said.

The comedian, actor and author had been in the hospital with respiratory problems.

A statement from his manager Phil Dale said: “It is with great personal sadness that on behalf of Yvonne Ball, the family and Tommy Cannon, I announce that Bobby Ball passed away at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on October 28, 2020 at approximately 9:30 PM. .

“Bobby had been taken to the hospital for tests when he started with breathing problems.

“At first it was thought to be a chest infection, but a test came back positive for Covid-19.

“His wife Yvonne said the hospital and staff could not have been more wonderful as they were outstanding in taking care of duty and did everything they could for him and she cannot praise them highly enough.

“He said the family and Tommy would like to express their sincerest thanks to the many, many people who have been Bobby fans and know that everyone will share in part the great loss and utter sadness that Yvonne, the family and Tommy all feel. .

Yvonne added that her 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 became famous on The Cannon & Ball Show alongside his longtime friend, Tommy Cannon.

He also appeared in television series such as Last Of The Summer Wine, Heartbeat, Mount Pleasant, Benidorm, The Cockfields and Not Going Out, and the duo appeared on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2005.

Cannon said, “Keep going my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated.”

His wife Yvonne added: “I will always miss him, he was so upbeat, fun-filled and mischievous.”