Popular British comedian Duncan Norvelle dead at 66 following chest infection

2 weeks ago 9

Popular British comedian Duncan Norvelle has died at the age of 66 after battling sepsis and a chest infection.

Norvelle, who rose to fame in the 1980s and known for his catchphrase “chase me,” died on Thursday morning, his partner Linda Trevallion told The Sun.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: British comedian Duncan Norvelle performs in the 1980s.

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“He’s at peace, and he’s made millions of people laugh in his lifetime,” she said.

“I’ve never heard anyone say a bad thing about him.”

Trevallion said Norvelle was not in pain at the time of his death.

Duncan Norvelle’s wife Linda Trevallion confirmed his death.Duncan Norvelle’s wife Linda Trevallion confirmed his death. Credit: Linda Trevallion/Facebook

The couple met shortly after Norvelle suffered a stroke in 2012 that left half of his body paralysed.

Although they never married, Trevallion said they were “together like husband and wife”.

“I fell in love with the man, it made no difference about the stroke,” she said.

“I helped him, but he could do a lot for himself … I never wish anyone to suffer.

“I just want to still hold him, and love him a bit more.

“It’s never enough. I knew it was coming but you’re never prepared.”

At the time of his death, Norvelle was surrounded by family.

Trevallion was by his side, along with two of his children — Jack, 15, and Yasmin, 35.

Popular British comedian Duncan Norvelle performs. Popular British comedian Duncan Norvelle performs. Credit: YouTube

His eldest child Sophie, 44, was unable to return from Spain in time to be with him.

Norvelle rose to fame in the 1980s, featuring on ITV’s Saturday Royal and appearing in the pilot for Blind Date, then titled It’s a Hoot.

In 1991, he was a guest on the comedy panel game show Through the Keyhole.

In 2008, Norvelle delighted fans when he toured with the Ricky Tomlinson Laughter Show.

His career was disrupted by the 2012 stroke, which forced him to cancel plans to perform alongside comedy duo Cannon and Ball.

Three years later, Norvelle returned to the stage at the Embassy Theatre in Skegness, raising funds for the Stroke Association.

His ex wife also confirmed the news with a Facebook post: “It’s with great sadness myself and Duncan’s children have to announce the passing of Duncan Norvelle this morning at 8.15am.

“Duncan passed peacefully with myself and daughter Yasmin. Rest inpeace,e our comedy legend, so deeply loved and will be so very missed.”

Tributes have poured in from friends and colleagues following news of his passing.

Fellow comedian Tommy Cannon paid tribute on social media.

“Very sad news to hear the passing of one of my mates, Duncan Norvelle today, fond memories working with him in summer season, and recently doing a cruise with him,” Cannon wrote.

“My thoughts go out to all his family at this time. You’ll be greatly missed mate, rest easy.”

Musician Rik Gaynor also expressed his grief on Facebook.

“Comedy Superstar Legend is the best way to describe him. He was the first and only person I ever asked for an autograph,” Gaynor wrote.

“He was absolutely hilarious, with his impressions, singing, stand-up comedy, and, of course, his famous catchphrase ‘CHASE ME,’ which made him a household name in the ’80s and ’90s.

“We will deeply miss that cheeky smile and wicked sense of humour.

“We will never forget the legend that is Duncan Norvelle,” he added.

“Sleep tight, Dunc. Your work is done. Always in our thoughts.”

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