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Leeds indie to produce tribute to Bobby Ball for ITV

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Lime Pictures’ Wise Owl Films has been commissioned to produce a tribute show to celebrate the life of Bobby Ball.

Rock on, Tommy – The Bobby Ball Story will document the entertainer’s life and work, from his hugely successful double act with Tommy Cannon, to appearances in Benidorm, Not Going Out and I’m a Celebrity.

“I’m heartbroken to have lost my best pal and comedy partner, but I’m so pleased that ITV are going to mark his career with this celebration – it will be nostalgic and emotional for all of us who knew Bobby, and for all the fans out there who felt like they did,” said Tommy Cannon.

79-year-old Ball died a week ago at Blackpool Victoria Hospital after testing positive for Covid-19.

“Bobby Ball’s TV career spanned an incredible seven decades. Some viewers still fondly remember classic moments from the 1970s and 80s when Bobby brought a new type of comedy to our screens, alongside Tommy,” explained Wise Owl Films’ Creative Director and Executive Producer Mark Robinson.

“A new generation might know him better as a fine actor, in shows like Not Going Out and Mount Pleasant. Bobby’s story is an incredible one and we’re honoured to have been asked to make this tribute to one of Britain’s most loved and most versatile entertainers”.

The documentary will feature archive clips and stories from those who knew him best. Cannon, his comedy partner for almost 60 years, will narrate the 30 minute programme.

The show is produced by Mark McMullen, directed by Annaliese Edwards and executive produced by Mark Robinson for Wise Owl Films.

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