Denis Norden, TV personality and comedy writer, has died at the age of 96.
Norden's long career included scriptwriting for radio following his service in the Air Force during WW2, as well as for Hollywood films in the 1960s including 'Bueno Sera, Mrs. Campbell' and 'The Bliss of Mrs. Blossom', the latter starring Shirley McLaine.
He was perhaps best known, however, for his presenting work, particularly on ITV's blooper show 'It'll Be Alright on the Night' and 'Laughter File' in the 1990s.
He died in the early hours of this morning at the Royal Free Hospital in London. He is survived by his two children, Nick and Maggie, and his wife of 75 years, Avril.
Fans and colleagues have been paying tribute to him on social media this morning:
Just heard about Denis Norden. The gentlest of gentlemen. The kindest soul. The loveliest human being. Met and worked with him on Countdown a number of times and was always an utter joy to be around. A very sad start to the day.
Sleep well, Sir.— Greg Scott (@GregScottTV) September 19, 2018
My fav It’ll Be Alright On The Night clip: a news reporter doing a piece to camera on a shopping centre escalator. Behind him, a shopper realises he’s caught on camera. He can’t go anywhere; he’s on an escalator. His awkwardness draws the eye. Especially as he is Denis Norden.
— Dave Gorman (@DaveGorman) September 19, 2018
I met Denis Norden when I appeared on a kids' special of 'It'll Be Alright on the Night' at the age of 8. He just made everyone chuckle so effortlessly, what a legend.
— Meg Royle (@meganboob) September 19, 2018
Sad news about the death of Lord of the Clipboard Denis Norden. In the age of youtube and social media it's hard to explain how exciting it was to watch 'It'll Be Alright On The Night'.
— Dan Walker (@mrdanwalker) September 19, 2018
RIP the great Denis Norden. One of the finest (and tallest) writers of a great generation. Doyen, gentleman, giant in every sense.
— Rory Bremner (@rorybremner) September 19, 2018
Sad news about Denis Norden. A very funny man and the only person ever to make people laugh whilst holding a clipboard.
— Willem Harvey (@willemharvey) September 19, 2018
RIP Denis Norden. He had the most gorgeous drawly voice, so distinctive. I used to hope my TV mess ups would get on his show. I made it once! #denisnorden
— Nina Nannar (@NinaNannarITV) September 19, 2018
A lifetime of great comedy writing and just being a generally decent type. Thank you, Denis Norden. Some Take It From Here today at some point, I think,
— Walter Dunlop (@waltydunlop) September 19, 2018
