I’ve lost my brother, my partner .. and my very best friend
TELLY star Barry Chuckle, one half of comedy duo the Chuckle Brothers, has died at the age of 73.
The veteran entertainer had recently filmed a new TV series for Channel 5 but fell ill and his health deteriorated.
His double act partner Paul, 70, said: “I’ve not just lost my brother, I’ve lost my theatrical partner of many, many years and my very best friend.”
Manager Phil Dale told fans yesterday of the star’s BY SHERNA NOAH death. He said: “It is with great sadness that the family announce that Barry passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife Ann and all his family.
“The family would like to express their thanks to the many people who have been fans of The Chuckle Brothers and they know that they will share in part the great, great loss they feel.”
Phil added the star, real name Barry Elliot, “leaves 50 years of laughter as his legacy”.
The Chuckle Brothers won Opportunity Knocks in 1967.
The Rotherham double act’s BBC kids’ show ChuckleVision – with their catchphrase “To me, to you” – ran from 1987 to 2009.
They returned to TV in June with Channel 5 show Chuckle Time, featuring their sketches and funny clips from viewers.
Stars paid tribute to the entertainer. Comedian and Britian’s Got Talent judge David Walliams said: “I was lucky to work with the Chuckle Brothers many times. Barry had funny bones. He could have you in hysterics with just a look.”
Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness tweeted: “One of my favourites from childhood and as an adult. Gutted. Barry Chuckle RIP, sir.”