Bobby Norris was forced to go on Instagram and confirm he is not dead, in what he described as 'potentially the most random video' he has ever made. The Only Way Is Essex star claimed there had been some confusion, but he thought he had 'got to the bottom of it'.
Addressing the rumors
He told his 750,000 followers: 'Basically, there has been an influx in messages because there has been an announcement of my passing online over the last couple of days. Now, at first, I thought the internet was internetting, I was not sure if it was the good old trolls under the bridge doing what they do, so I did not really respond to it. And then more and more came in, and for a split second in my head, I am thinking: "Well, it cannot be me because I am eating an omelette, and I am still very much here, kicking about, you know what I am saying?"'
Bobby, 39, went on to explain that he thinks another Bobby Norris died and people mistakenly assumed it was him. He expressed condolences for the man and his friends and family, while also showing appreciation for fans' well wishes. Describing it as 'a mad couple of days in the twilight zone', he signed off the video thanking his followers.
Support from fans
Support flooded the comments, with many also holding the 'other Bobby Norris' in their thoughts. Lisa Sharman described it as a 'happy and sad moment' and sent her 'condolences to the family of the deceased'. Another, Tracie Dack, called it 'a frightening thing'. She went on: 'So sorry as you say for the other Bobby Norris and his family and friends. Glad you are alive and kicking hun and enjoying your omelette. Much love.'
The TV personality appeared to film the video from the comfort of his sofa, wearing a relaxed open shirt. He titled the post: 'Still here with my omelette.. (Just to clear up any confusion..)' Victoria remarked: 'That omelette must have tasted divine after that Bob, condolences to the other family.'
Recent health updates
Earlier this year, Bobby shared videos of his swollen face after undergoing facelift surgery. He spoke openly about the procedures he had, and the judgement he faced from others because of it. Appearing on ITV's This Morning in April, he responded to presenter Ben Shephard, who asked why he felt like he needed one at 39: 'Do what makes you feel better.'
The reality star has campaigned against online hate and continues to be vocal about the abuse he has experienced himself. The Only Way Is Essex is available to watch on ITVX.
