80s comedian Duncan Norvelle, known for ‘Chase Me’ catchphrase, dies aged 66
Comedian Duncan Norvelle, known for his trademark ‘Chase me’ catchphrase, has died aged 66.
Norvelle rose to fame on the ITV variety show Saturday Royal in the early 1980s, and went on to appear on the likes of Through the Keyhole, and more recently, Celebrity Come Dine With Me.
His death was confirmed by his agent, who shared in a tribute: ‘All I can say is Duncan was a comedy genius and British icon ahead of his time who loved showbusiness.
‘We managed Duncan and re-released his album Music From My Life, but more than anything he become a good friend and will be truly missed in the entertainment world.’
His partner Linda also shared a tribute, saying he died from a chest infection and sepsis but was not in any pain.
‘He’s at peace and he’s made millions of people laugh in his lifetime. I’ve never heard anyone say a bad thing about him,’ she told The Sun.
A post on his Facebook page said: ‘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 in peace our comedy legend, so deeply loved and will be so very missed.’
The note, signed off by his partner Lynn, added that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
Fans and friends have paid tribute to him, with Lizzie Cundy writing on X: ‘Very sad to hear comedian Duncan Norvelle has passed away.
‘His famous trademark saying, “chase me chase me” used to make me laugh so much.
‘Sending all my love and thoughts to his family.’
EastEnders actor Stuart Antony said: ‘So sad to hear lovely Duncan Norvell passed away this morning.
‘A comedy legend and one of the nicest people ever. Always had fantastic stories – RIP Duncan Norvell.’
Comedian Steve Royle added: ‘So sorry to hear of the passing of Duncan Norvelle @DuncanChaseMe A comedy legend and a lovely man. I’m so lucky to have known and worked with him.
‘Thanks for the memories mate. RIP & Get Saint Peter to Chase You!! Love to Linda and all the family, Steve xx.’
In 2012, Norvelle suffered two strokes, including one in hospital, and was told he’d have difficulty walking or talking properly again.
He later said: ‘I saw a lot of stroke patients give up and not question what the doctors were saying to them but I was determined to get better and live my life.’
According to MailOnline, after visiting him in hospital, Linda, who was told he’d had a heartattack, said: ”When I saw him I was shocked. His face had fallen and he couldn’t lift his head from the pillow. I hadn’t realised how serious a stroke could be.’
After spending 18 months in hospital trying to regain his speech and mobility, Norvelle said: ‘It was an incredible wake-up call and I now live my life very differently.’
Norvelle is survived by his girlfriend Linda and three children.
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