Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

Ronnie Corbett

Role / Field:

Iconic Scottish comedian known for his chair monologues and work with Ronnie Barker.

Born:

1930-12-04

Died:

2016-03-31

Century / Era:

1930s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

Ronald Balfour Corbett (4 December 1930 – 31 March 2016) was a Scottish comedian and actor. He had a long association with Ronnie Barker in the BBC Television comedy sketch show The Two Ronnies (1971–87), becoming known for his meandering chair monologues, and starred in sitcoms such as No – That's Me Over Here! (1967–70), Now Look Here (1971–73), and Sorry! (1981–88).

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Corbett began his acting career after moving from Edinburgh to London; he had early roles in the TV series Crackerjack and The Saint. He achieved prominence and began performing with Ronnie Barker in David Frost's satirical comedy programme The Frost Report (1966–67), and appeared in the films You're Only Young Twice (1952), Rockets Galore! (1958), Casino Royale (1967), Some Will, Some Won't (1970), and No Sex Please, We're British (1973). Corbett was born on 4 December 1930 at The Royal Maternity Hospital in Edinburgh, Scotland, the son of William Balfour Corbett (1898–1974), a master baker, and his London-born wife, Annie Elizabeth Corbett (née Main; 1900–1991). He had a brother about six years younger, Allan, and a sister about ten years younger, Margaret.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Corbett's grandfather was principal organist...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Ronnie Corbett