Barry Chuckle, one half of the comedy duo the Chuckle Brothers, has died aged 73.
The UK entertainer, whose real name was Barry Elliott, was best known for his work alongside his brother Paul.
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Paul Elliott expressed his grief in a statement: "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 also expressed sadness at Elliott's passing.
"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."
His management confirmed on Sunday (local time) that Chuckle died at home surrounded by his wife and family. He had been ill for some time, forcing him to stop filming a new series with his brother called Chuckle Time.
The Chuckle Brothers became household names after winning a talent show in 1967. They appeared on TV regularly throughout the 1970s and 80s in shows such as ChuckleHounds and ChuckleVision, which ran for 22 years.
The duo also performed in pantomimes for 48 consecutive years.
Newshub.
