TV Legend Ronnie Corbett Dies Aged 85

Ronnie Corbett: 4th December 1930 - 31st March 2016

The legendary entertainer, Ronnie Corbett has sadly died at the age of 85 according to his publicist. A statement from Ronnie's publicist said:

"Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation's best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family. They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time."

Ronnie Corbett was best known for his association with his fellow comedian Ronnie Barker in the hit television Series 'The Two Ronnies'.Ronnie was born in Edinburgh in 1930. He was the son of William Balfour Corbett. Ronnie has a brother who is about six years younger than he is. He also has a sister ten years younger than him. Ronnie graduated from Royal High School in the city. Ronnie did not attend University in his lifetime. Ronnie decided to be an actor whilst he was performing in amateur theatricals at a church youth club.

Both Ronnies first officially worked together on 'The Frost Report' in the late 60s. This was before they developed their own sketch show. This consisted of lots of different sketches, singing and dancing. The show is still recognized as one of the greatest TV shows on television today.

'The Two Ronnies' had eventually won the 'Best Entertainment Show Award' back in 1972. The show ran for 16 fantastic and popular years. The show ran on the BBC. It was a record breaking spell at the London Palladium in 1978.

In 2012, Ronnie Corbett was awarded his CBE in the New Years Honours. This was for his services towards charities and in the entertainment industry. He was presented his award by the Queen in Buckingham Palace. After admiring his medal, Ronnie said this:

"It’s very pretty. It’s a very lovely honour. I shall treasure it." - Ronnie Corbett

Ronnie and his wife celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary last year. Ronnie passed away at home surrounded by his loving family. The TV entertainer had been suffering from ill-health for quite some time. In 2014, Corbett was in hospital with gall bladder problems. In 2012, Corbett had collapsed at dinner in his honour.

Tributes are pouring in on the social media site, Twitter.

RIP the lovely, funny legend Ronnie Corbett. It was an absolute honour & joy to have known him. - Ricky Gervais

Yet more sad news. Could not have been a lovelier man. - Dara O' Briain

"RIP Ronnie Corbett, what a brilliant and funny man he was." - Jack Whitehall

"Sad news about Ronnie Corbett, very funny man R.I.P." - Lord Sugar

Rest in Peace Ronnie.