Barry Chuckle dies surrounded by family aged 73

Barry (left) and Paul had started to film a new TV series but Barry became unwell and his health deteriorated. Credit: PA

Veteran entertainer Barry Chuckle, one half of comedy duo the Chuckle Brothers, has died at the age of 73, his manager said.

The TV and theatre entertainer had started to film a new TV series but he became unwell and his health deteriorated.

Manager Phil Dale said in a statement: “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.”

His brother Paul said: “I’ve not just lost my brother, I’ve lost my theatrical partner of many, many years and my very best friend.”

The statement added that the star “leaves 50 years of laughter as his legacy which is something very special”.

Fans and colleagues paid tribute to the entertainer, whose real name was Barry Elliot, on Twitter.

Rapper Tinchy Stryder, who collaborated with the Chuckle Brothers on a song called To Me, To You (Bruv) in 2014, wrote: "Funny, Down to earth, super cool, talented, humble legend. Rest in peace Barry Chuckle!"

Phoenix Nights star and Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness tweeted: "One of my favourites from childhood years, teenage years and as an adult! Gutted. Barry Chuckle RIP sir."

Labour MP Angela Rayner said: "So sorry to hear of the death of Barry Chuckle aged 73 this morning. A great entertainer who has been making people laugh for so long. Our family loved his act with his brother, RIP Barry."

The Chuckle Brothers had recently filmed a new series titled Chuckle Time for Channel 5.

Barry had not been well towards the end of the filming and summer work was cancelled whilst he rested at his doctor’s request, but not long after this his health deteriorated.

The pair were awarded a Bafta Special Award in 2008 for their contribution to children's television.

A tribute on the official Bafta twitter page said: "We're deeply saddened to learn of the death of Barry Elliot, known as Barry Chuckle."

The Chuckle Brothers won the talent show Opportunity Knocks in 1967. The Rotherham double-act’s BBC show ChuckleVision ran for 21 series from 1987 to 2009.

The entertainers made a TV comeback on Chuckle Time. The programme saw the brothers perform comedy sketches and introduce humorous online videos from members of the public.