Thanks for the laughs
NICHOLAS PARSONS DEAD AT 96
TRIBUTES poured in last night for presenter Nicholas Parsons, who has died aged 96.
He fronted BBC Radio 4 comedy panel show Just A Minute from its start in 1967.
Panellist Gyles Brandreth described Parsons’ death as “the end of an era”.
Agent Jean Diamond issued a statement on behalf of his family, saying: “Nicholas passed away in the early hours of Jan 28 after a short illness at the age of 96.
“He was with his beloved family who will miss him enormously.”
BBC boss Tony Hall praised the “broadcasting legend”, paying tribute to his “charm, inventive intellect and ability to create laughs”. Parsons fronted ITV game show Sale Of The Century and appeared on the Benny Hill Show, as well as Have I Got News For You, Night Network and The Comic Strip Presents.
Stephen Fry tweeted: “Oh no. Nicholas Parsons gone? “He ruled Just a Minute for Just a Lifetime. A stunning achievement: never scripted, always immaculate.”
Graham Norton said: “The sound of the final whistle. Nicholas was truly the kindest and most generous person I’ve ever worked with.”
Comedian Julian Clary added: “So clever, funny and generous.
“I thought he, and the twinkle in his eyes, would go on forever. What a remarkable life and career.”
BBC Radio 4 last night broadcast a highlights episode of Just A Minute in Parsons’ honour.
The cricket-fan was born in Grantham, Lincs, on October 10, 1923, and described himself as “the unconventional child of conventional parents”.
He leaves behind wife Ann and two children from his first marriage to actress Denise Bryer.