British Heritage
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Ronnie Corbett - "And It's Goodnight From Him"
Ronnie Corbett: A Legacy Enshrined in British Heritage.
Ronnie Corbett CBE (1930–2016), celebrated Scottish actor, comedian, writer, and broadcaster, holds a permanent place in the cultural landscape of Britain. He was a stalwart figure in the nation's favourite shows, captivating audiences with his engaging wit, memorable one-liners, and enduring comedy partnership with Ronnie Barker in their career-defining show, The Two Ronnies. His legacy is one of laughter, resilience, and boundless creativity, his contributions forever woven into the rich tapestry of British heritage.
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Corbett's theatrical aspirations led him from his hometown to the bright lights of London. He began his career with roles in the television series Crackerjack and The Saint, and film appearances in You're Only Young Twice, Rockets Galore!, and Casino Royale, among others. Yet it was his encounter with Ronnie Barker in the BBC TV series The Frost Report that kindled a comedic partnership that would endure for decades.
Their iconic sketch show, The Two Ronnies, ran from 1971 to 1987, showcasing Corbett's versatility as a comedian and his uncanny knack for delivering extended, meandering monologues from his now-symbolic easy chair. This routine became a beloved part of the show, highlighting Corbett's extraordinary comedic timing and his ability to maintain an audience's attention.
Corbett's work on stage and screen extended beyond his famed partnership with Barker. He starred in sitcoms like No – That's Me Over Here!, Now Look Here, and Sorry!, where he masterfully portrayed Timothy Lumsden, a 40-year-old dominated by his mother. His performances encapsulated a unique blend of charm, whimsy, and self-deprecating humour, and his diminutive stature often served as the butt of his own jokes, further endearing him to audiences.
In addition to his acting roles, Corbett was an accomplished writer, contributing to the scripts of many shows he starred in. His wit and creativity were evident in the clever twists and turns of his monologues, his ability to deftly navigate through intricate plots, and his knack for delivering the unexpected punchline.
Corbett was also known for his association with notable figures in British comedy. His collaborations with John Cleese in The Frost Report, his cabaret work at Danny La Rue's Mayfair nightclub, and his appearances in Frost on Sunday all stand testament to his enduring influence and his unwavering commitment to the world of comedy.
Even in the later stages of his career, Corbett continued to delight audiences with his wit and charisma, making cameo appearances in contemporary comedy shows like Extras and Little Britain Abroad. His roles, though smaller in scale, demonstrated his timeless comedic prowess and his ability to adapt to changing comedic styles.
Corbett's remarkable career in entertainment and his contributions to charity were acknowledged when he was promoted to Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2012 New Year Honours. His longstanding impact on British comedy and culture was further recognised when he was awarded an honorary degree by Queen Margaret University College in Edinburgh in 2002.
Offstage, Corbett was equally memorable. He married actress and dancer Anne Hart in 1966, with whom he had two daughters, actresses Emma and Sophie Corbett. A passionate golfer and cricket fan, Corbett was a man of many interests and passions. His personal life was filled with the same warmth, charm, and light-hearted humour that characterised his public persona.
Corbett's passing on 31 March 2016 marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered for his impeccable comedic timing, his warmth, and his indomitable spirit. His contributions to British comedy have forever altered the landscape of the genre, and his memory continues to inspire laughter and joy in audiences worldwide.
To this day, Ronnie Corbett remains a towering figure in British comedy. Through his varied roles, his unmatched comedic timing, and his enduring partnership with Ronnie Barker, he has made an indelible impact on British heritage. His life and career were a testament to the transformative power of laughter and the enduring appeal of heartfelt comedy. And in the spirit of his iconic catchphrase, "And It's Goodnight From Him," Ronnie Corbett's legacy continues to shine brightly in the annals of British comedy.
Ascendancy to Stardom
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Corbett's theatrical aspirations led him from his hometown to the bright lights of London. He began his career with roles in the television series Crackerjack and The Saint, and film appearances in You're Only Young Twice, Rockets Galore!, and Casino Royale, among others. Yet it was his encounter with Ronnie Barker in the BBC TV series The Frost Report that kindled a comedic partnership that would endure for decades.
Their iconic sketch show, The Two Ronnies, ran from 1971 to 1987, showcasing Corbett's versatility as a comedian and his uncanny knack for delivering extended, meandering monologues from his now-symbolic easy chair. This routine became a beloved part of the show, highlighting Corbett's extraordinary comedic timing and his ability to maintain an audience's attention.
Impact and Contributions
Corbett's work on stage and screen extended beyond his famed partnership with Barker. He starred in sitcoms like No – That's Me Over Here!, Now Look Here, and Sorry!, where he masterfully portrayed Timothy Lumsden, a 40-year-old dominated by his mother. His performances encapsulated a unique blend of charm, whimsy, and self-deprecating humour, and his diminutive stature often served as the butt of his own jokes, further endearing him to audiences.
In addition to his acting roles, Corbett was an accomplished writer, contributing to the scripts of many shows he starred in. His wit and creativity were evident in the clever twists and turns of his monologues, his ability to deftly navigate through intricate plots, and his knack for delivering the unexpected punchline.
A Beacon of British Comedy
Corbett was also known for his association with notable figures in British comedy. His collaborations with John Cleese in The Frost Report, his cabaret work at Danny La Rue's Mayfair nightclub, and his appearances in Frost on Sunday all stand testament to his enduring influence and his unwavering commitment to the world of comedy.
Even in the later stages of his career, Corbett continued to delight audiences with his wit and charisma, making cameo appearances in contemporary comedy shows like Extras and Little Britain Abroad. His roles, though smaller in scale, demonstrated his timeless comedic prowess and his ability to adapt to changing comedic styles.
Honours and Personal Life
Corbett's remarkable career in entertainment and his contributions to charity were acknowledged when he was promoted to Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2012 New Year Honours. His longstanding impact on British comedy and culture was further recognised when he was awarded an honorary degree by Queen Margaret University College in Edinburgh in 2002.
Offstage, Corbett was equally memorable. He married actress and dancer Anne Hart in 1966, with whom he had two daughters, actresses Emma and Sophie Corbett. A passionate golfer and cricket fan, Corbett was a man of many interests and passions. His personal life was filled with the same warmth, charm, and light-hearted humour that characterised his public persona.
An Enduring Legacy
Corbett's passing on 31 March 2016 marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered for his impeccable comedic timing, his warmth, and his indomitable spirit. His contributions to British comedy have forever altered the landscape of the genre, and his memory continues to inspire laughter and joy in audiences worldwide.
To this day, Ronnie Corbett remains a towering figure in British comedy. Through his varied roles, his unmatched comedic timing, and his enduring partnership with Ronnie Barker, he has made an indelible impact on British heritage. His life and career were a testament to the transformative power of laughter and the enduring appeal of heartfelt comedy. And in the spirit of his iconic catchphrase, "And It's Goodnight From Him," Ronnie Corbett's legacy continues to shine brightly in the annals of British comedy.
- Ronnie Corbetten.wikipedia.org
