Tommy Cannon has paid a moving tribute to his long-time comedy partner Bobby Ball, who died at the age of 76 after testing positive for Covid-19. Ball, one half of the iconic double act Cannon and Ball, passed away at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on Wednesday evening.
In a statement, Cannon said: "Rock on, my good friend, I can't believe this, I'm devastated." Ball's wife Yvonne added: "I will always miss him, he was so joyful, full of fun and mischievous."
Ball's manager Phil Dale confirmed the comedian was admitted for tests due to breathing problems. "At first it was thought to be a chest infection but a test proved positive for Covid-19," he said. Dale praised the hospital staff for their outstanding care and asked for privacy for the family.
Ball recently starred in the BBC sitcom Not Going Out alongside Lee Mack, who said he was "utterly shocked and devastated to lose my mate Bobby like this." Mack added: "To get to work with one of my childhood comedy heroes was great. But to call him a friend was even better."
Tributes also came from Declan Donnelly, Robbie Williams, and many other entertainers. Ball was born in Oldham, Lancashire, and met Cannon while working as a welder. The duo became famous on the cabaret circuit, with Ball known for twanging his braces and saying, "Rock on, Tommy."
