Comedian Duncan Norvelle, renowned for his iconic catchphrase "Chase me!" and his endearing, campy humor, has passed away at the age of 66. His death has left fans and the entertainment community reeling, as tributes pour in for the beloved comedian who graced British television throughout the vibrant 1980s.
Duncan's partner, Linda Trevallion, confirmed the sad news, stating he died peacefully on December 12, 2024, at 8:15 AM after battling complications from a chest infection and sepsis. Linda described him as someone who made millions laugh during his lifetime, emphasizing how he never swore on stage and maintained a clean act throughout his career. "I've never heard anyone say anything bad about him," she reflected, showcasing the love and respect he garnered as both a performer and person.
Known early on for his prominent role on ITV's Saturday Royal variety show, Norvelle quickly became synonymous with fun and laughter. His humorous antics and vibrant performances captured audiences and made him a household name. Linda remarked, "He was probably the last of the legends of true variety comedy. So many have passed now."
Norvelle's legacy is particularly felt by those who knew him personally. Linda reminisced about their life together, sharing, "We were together like husband and wife. I fell for the man; the stroke didn't matter. I helped him, but he could do so much for himself. He was very gracious with fans." Their relationship blossomed after Duncan suffered a stroke in 2012, which resulted in paralysis on the left side of his body. Despite the life-altering condition, he demonstrated remarkable determination to return to performing, earning standing ovations each time he took the stage.
“He proved to everyone he could still get a standing ovation every time he did a show,” Linda asserted, expressing pride in his spirit and resilience.
The comedian rose to prominence at the height of variety television, alongside other comedic talents like Cannon and Ball or Jim Davidson. His unique charm and humor made him especially popular, his catchphrase often echoed during live performances and television appearances. The nostalgic memories of audiences laughing along with him serve as enduring testaments of his comedic genius.
Friends and fellow comedians have paid heartfelt tributes to Norvelle. Veteran comic Jim Davidson expressed his sorrow, stating, "Rest in peace Duncan. You were, and always will be, a proper comedian." Likewise, comedian Jimmy Cricket remembered him as "a charismatic performer who thrilled audiences up and down the country with his style of humor and hilarious impressions. He was also a man of indomitable spirit!"
Throughout his career, Norvelle's shows erupted with energy, his playful engagement with audiences often leaving them howling with laughter. A clip from the 1980s quiz show 3-2-1 demonstrates his entertaining style; yet beneath the laughter, he nurtured deep respect toward his audience, never mocking but rather inviting laughter through his own quirks.
Despite the challenges brought about by his stroke, Duncan's commitment to his craft remained unwavering. Linda shared poignant moments of their life together, noting how he dedicated himself to getting back on stage even when doctors warned he might never walk properly again. "He returned to perform for charity fundraisers," she said, highlighting his generous spirit and unwillingness to give up. Norvelle later expressed, "I felt this one jolting through my entire body and it seemed to go on forever. I was determined to get back up and live my life."
After his stroke, Duncan faced numerous adversities, including experiencing moments of despair and battling against medical predictions. Yet he surpassed expectations by regaining his speech and mobility to the point where he no longer relied solely on his stick for support. His doctor acknowledged the uphill climb he faced and praised his perseverance.
Born and raised near Loughborough, Duncan discovered his passion for comedy after winning £20 in a talent show as a teenager. His career cobbled its way through working men's clubs before launching him to the pinnacle of television fame. Early stardom on shows like Surprise! Surprise! and The Bob Monkhouse Show solidified his position as one of Britain's favorite entertainers.
Throughout his comedic career, Norvelle was not just about laughs. He earned enormous respect for his clean humor, often highlighted by his comedic contemporaries, including the late Sir Ken Dodd, who admired him for his wholesome performances. Ken had often referred to Duncan's work, commenting, “He was like me, ‘a good, clean act,’ inviting him to be part of his 80th birthday entertainment.”
The joy Duncan brought to millions was felt deeply during his final moments, as both Linda and Norvelle's children were at his side as he departed. His family members lamented his passing yet celebrated the beautiful life he led, filled with laughter and love. A social media statement made by his loving partner beautifully encapsulated their shared bond, stating: "Everything I do is for you, bubba."
Despite losing one of Britain's treasured comedians, the spirit of Duncan's artistry remains as fans and family cherish fond memories of his performances. Tributes from fans and fellow artists continue to flood social media, with many recalling how his work and legacy touched their lives.
Linda concluded her statements by emphasizing Duncan's love for performance, reminding everyone of his passion for the stage. She conveyed her purpose to honor his memory by continuing to tell his story. Duncan Norvelle certainly left behind a rich legacy of laughter—a timeless mark of joy and resilience. The laughter he spread was contagious, comforting those around him even until his final days. The entertainment world may have lost this vibrant star, but his laughter will echo on, reminding us of the healing power of comedy and the joy it brings.
