Ronnie Corbett, ‘The Two Ronnies’ Star, Dies At 85

Ronnie Corbett CBE, the British entertainer best known for comedy sketch show The Two Ronnies, died Thursday. He was 85.

Ronnie Corbett Dies

“Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation’s best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family,” Corbett’s publicist said in a statement, according to the BBC. “They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time.”

As of yet the cause of death is unknown, though Corbett had suffered from multiple health issues over the last few years. A knee replacement in 2011 had led to a number of complications, including a collapse at a family meal in 2012. He had also been hospitalized for a gallbladder problem.

Corbett got his start in TV comedy in 1960 on David Frost’s Frost Report. Eventually, he and his Frost Report costar Ronnie Barker developed their own comedy sketch show – The Two Ronnies. The Two Ronnies went on to become a British comedy classic, running from 1971 to 1987, when Barker retired.

Following Barker’s retirement, Corbett took to the theater stage, staring in The Seven Year Itch, Out of Order and The Dressmaker. Corbett’s film credits include Top of the Form, You’re Only Young Once, Casino Royale, No Sex Please, We’re British and Fierce Creatures. Corbett returned to TV in Sorry! and Small Talk.

In 2012, Corbett was honored with a CBE for his services to charity and the entertainment industry.

Corbett is survived by his wife Anne Hart, and their two daughters Emma and Sophie Corbett.