Tim Brooke-Taylor has died of coronavirus.
The ‘Goodies’ star – who is best known for being part of the 1970s show as well as ‘I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue’ – passed away at the age of 79 after contracting the virus.
A statement from his agent said: "It is with great sadness that we announce Tim’s death early today from Covid-19. Joining ‘Footlights’ in 1960 took him to providing a huge variety of splendid entertainment – television, radio, theatre, film, books, DVDs, CDs, quizzes, etc. – all of which he undertook with energy and a great sense of fun. We will remember him for so much but must just mention ‘The Goodies’ and I’m ‘Sorry I Haven’t A Clue’. He had, of course, many fans whom he always treated cheerfully even after long and exhausting rehearsals and recordings. He was an exceptional client and a pleasure to represent. We’re grateful that we have so much of his work to view, read and listen to. In all the time with us and in all his showbiz work, he has been supported by Christine, his wife."
Tim’s colleagues – Bill Oddie and Graeme Garden – both paid tribute to their late friend.
Bill wrote on Twitter: "Fifty years and he only got cross with me once … well maybe twice … no quite a lot actually!
"No one could wear silly costumes or do dangerous stunts like Tim. I know it hurt cos he used to cry a lot. Sorry Timbo. A true visual comic and a great friend x (sic)"
Whilst Graeme said in a statement: "Tim and I met at Cambridge University in the early 1960s and have enjoyed worked together almost constantly from that time onwards, on radio, stage, and TV. He was a funny, sociable, generous man who was a delight to work with. Audiences found him not only hilarious but also adorable. His loss at this dreadful time is particularly hard to bear, and my thoughts are with Christine, Ben, Edward and their families."
Other big names in comedy paid tribute to the legendary star.
David Walliams wrote online: "I was obsessed with ‘The Goodies’ as a child, the first comedy show I really loved. I queued up to get the Goodies’ autographs as a grown-up, and got to meet Tim Brooke-Taylor more recently at a party. I was in total awe, but he was so kind & generous. It is so sad he is gone. (sic)"
Comedian Jack Dee, who currently hosts ‘I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue’, added: "It has come as devastating news to hear that Tim has succumbed to this dreadful virus – especially when we all thought he was recovering. Tim was a delightful man and never anything but great company. It has always been one of the great joys of my career to work with someone who was part of the comedy landscape of my childhood."
Tim Brooke-Taylor dies of coronavirus
