Duncan Norvelle, Comedian Known for ‘Chase Me’ Catchphrase, Dies at 66

Comedian Duncan Norvelle, recognized for his signature “Chase me” catchphrase, has passed away at 66 years old, according to his agent. His management team issued a statement paying homage, stating: “Duncan was a comedy genius and British icon ahead of his time who loved showbusiness.” Norvelle, who hailed from Leicestershire, was a recognizable presence on British television during the 1980s, featuring in programs such as Surprise Surprise, Wogan, and the Keith Harris Show. Lynn Trevallion, Norvelle’s partner, characterized him as “probably the last of the legends of true variety comedy,” and also noted that he was a “private person” who found enjoyment in gardening, cricket, golf, and snooker. His career gained prominence through the ITV variety program Saturday Royal in the early 1980s, and he made more recent appearances on a Come Dine with Me special and Pointless Celebrities. The comedian’s management team further commented: “We managed Duncan and re-released his album Music From My Life, but more than anything he became a good friend and will be truly missed in the entertainment world.” Trevallion depicted him as a “gentle comedian, [who] never swore on stage, he was a clean act,” and mentioned that fellow comedian Sir Ken Dodd “loved Duncan.” Regarding Norvelle’s performances, she remarked: “His type of comedy doesn’t happen anymore, he’s probably the last of the legends of true variety comedy, so many have passed now.” Discussing his return to performing after experiencing a stroke in 2012, Trevallion stated he “proved to everyone that he could still get a standing ovation every single time he did a show.” A Facebook post on Duncan’s page, signed by her on Thursday, announced: “Duncan passed peacefully with myself and daughter Yasmin. Rest in peace our comedy legend, so deeply loved and will be so very missed.” The post also indicated that details regarding funeral arrangements would be disclosed at a later time. Condolences have started to emerge from other comedians, such as Jim Davidson, who posted on X: “Rest in peace Duncan. You were, and always will be, a Proper Comedian.” Comedian Jimmy Cricket commented: “Duncan was a charismatic performer who thrilled audiences up and down the country with his style of humour and hilarious impressions, he was also a man of indomitable spirit! RIP old friend.” Norvelle had been admitted to Pilgrim Hospital in Boston a fortnight prior.