Remembering Bobby Ball

Variety, the Children’s Charity, pays tribute to comedian Bobby Ball

In a statement, the charity said they were all “deeply saddened by the news that Bobby Ball, a loyal and long-standing supporter of the charity, has died at the age of 76.”

Over a career spanning more than 60 years, Bobby is best remembered as one half of the legendary television comedy double act Cannon and Ball, as well as for his starring roles in a string of successful television sitcoms and dramas.

While he was widely loved for his mischievous nature and his ability to make all the generations laugh, Bobby was also known for having a ‘heart of gold’, and for his strong belief in giving back to the community. He gave his time to Variety in many different ways over several decades, presiding over Sunshine Coach presentations and making appearances at events, among other activities.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of Bobby Ball’s passing – a true comedy legend, who supported Variety for many years. It was an honour to present Bobby with his Variety award on stage at his tribute lunch not that long ago in Lytham. Bobby really did have a heart of gold. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and wife Yvonne at this difficult time.” – David Jones, Chair of the Variety Lancashire Committee

In recognition of his tremendous support, Bobby received a number of honours from Variety over the years. He was made Variety Club’s 1982 Show Business Personality of the year, along with his comedy partner, Tommy Canon. In 2018, Bobby was honoured by Variety at a tribute lunch.

Television viewers came to love Canon and Ball over on their long-running LWT series on ITV, with other appearances on ATV’s Summer Royal, Granada’s Wheeltappers and Shunters Club and BBC One’s Seaside Special. Bobby also recently, as a solo comedy performer, worked for UKTV and BBC Comedy. Cannon and Ball returned to ITV screens in 2017 on Last Laugh in Vegas, a series that took stars of the 70s and 80s back into the limelight with a Las Vegas glitz entertainment show.

“We are devastated to hear the sad news of Bobby Ball passing away. He was a powder keg of comedy who entertained audiences of all ages for decades. He was funny to the end, having just completed his work on the forthcoming Not Going Out series and we all feel immensely privileged to have enjoyed the benefit of his talents. Our thoughts are with family and friends at this sad time.” – Controller of BBC Comedy, Shane Allen