Bobby Ball has died, aged 76, after testing positive for Covid-19. The comedian, one half of comedy duo Cannon & Ball, was admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties. While there he received a positive diagnosis of Covid-19.
Ball, along with his best friend and work partner, Tommy Cannon, had a sparkling career spanning 40 years. The comedian was also an actor and author.
A statement from Phil Dale, Bobby Ball’s longtime manager, 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 the 28th 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.”
Cannon & Ball had a TV show on ITV for almost 10 years, having started out on the tough pub and club circuit in Northern England in the late 70s. They played the leads in the 1982 film The Boys in Blue.In 2005, they were popular contestants on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
“Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated,” Tommy Cannon said of his friend.
