Shock and Sorrow as Duncan Norvelle Passes Away
Beloved comedian Duncan Norvelle, famed for his signature “Chase me” catchphrase, has died peacefully at the age of 66. His passing was confirmed by his agent, who described him as a “comedy genius and British icon ahead of his time.”
Norvelle’s partner, Lynn Trevallion, shared that he passed with her and his daughter Yasmin by his side. Tributes from fellow comedians and fans poured in, mourning the loss of a legendary performer whose charm and clean humor left an indelible mark on British comedy.
A Star of British Variety
Born in Leicestershire, Norvelle became a household name in the 1980s, captivating audiences with his flamboyant stage persona and playful humor. He rose to fame on the ITV variety show Saturday Royal, earning widespread recognition. His comedic style led to appearances on popular TV shows such as Surprise Surprise, Wogan, and The Keith Harris Show.
Despite his on-stage persona, Norvelle was described as a private individual who enjoyed simple pleasures like gardening, cricket, golf, and snooker. His partner, Lynn Trevallion, called him “probably the last of the legends of true variety comedy.”
A Clean and Charismatic Comedian
Norvelle’s charm lay in his ability to deliver family-friendly humor without ever resorting to crude language. His gentle approach to comedy won him fans of all ages and admiration from industry greats, including Sir Ken Dodd, who was a vocal supporter of Norvelle’s work. Trevallion described him as a “gentle comedian” who earned standing ovations even after his stroke in 2012, proving his resilience and dedication to his craft.
Fond Farewells and Tributes
Norvelle’s management team highlighted his contribution to entertainment, saying, “Duncan became a good friend and will be truly missed in the entertainment world.” Comedian Jim Davidson wrote on social media, “You were, and always will be, a Proper Comedian.” Jimmy Cricket added, “Duncan thrilled audiences with his humor and impressions and was a man of indomitable spirit.”
Duncan Norvelle was admitted to Pilgrim Hospital in Boston two weeks before his passing. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon.
A Lasting Legacy
Duncan Norvelle leaves behind a legacy of laughter, joy, and a reminder of the golden era of variety comedy. His clean humor and iconic performances will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.