Ronnie Corbett: Bruce Forsyth, Ricky Gervais and Russell Crowe lead tributes to 'true legend'

Tributes have poured in for the much-loved entertainer following the news of his death
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Emma Powell31 March 2016
The Weekender

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Ronnie Corbett has been described as a "true legend" by a host of stars who have paid tribute to the much-loved entertainer following the news of his death.

Comedians Ricky Gervais, Jack Whitehall and David Walliams took to Twitter to share memories and pay their respects to Corbett who died on Thursday, aged 85, surrounded by his family.

A statement from his publicist said: "Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation's best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family.

"They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time."

Walliams posted an emotional message as he bid farewell to the comedy legend, tweeting: "Goodbye my friend and comedy idol #RonnieCorbett Thank you for all the laughs. It was the greatest honour to know and work with you."

Great British Bake Off's Paul Hollywood deemed him a "true legend", former footballer Gary Lineker labelled him a "national treasure" and Jeremy Corbyn dubbed him a "giant of British entertainment".

Hollywood actor Russell Crowe referenced Corbett's famous news sketch exchange with the late Ronnie Barker from The Two Ronnies, posting: "And it's good night from Ronnie Corbett."

Tony Hall, director-general of the BBC, said: “Ronnie Corbett was a wonderful comic and entertainer. A man of great charm and warmth who brought laughter and joy to millions.

"He was quite simply one of the true greats of British comedy. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Sir Bruce Forsyth told BBC News: “Ronnie was a friend, someone I admired so much. It’s a very, very sad day. I’m going to miss him like crazy.”

Corbett rose to fame in David Frost's The Frost Report before pairing up with Ronnie Barker on The Two Ronnies - a show that became one of the most popular TV programmes of the late 20th century.

He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2012 New Year Honours for his services to entertainment and charity.

Corbett is survived by his wife Anne Hart and his two daughters Emma and Sophie.

Follow @StandardShowbiz for more news.

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