Edinburgh’s cultural scene is truly remarkable in its diversity. It seems impossible to find such a concentration of talented individuals, boasting an incredible array of creative qualities, anywhere else. What’s particularly fascinating is how many of them seamlessly blend multiple roles, which only makes them more vibrant and unique as individuals. More on edinburgh-trend.
Ronald Corbett was one such person. He rose to fame as a television presenter, actor, comedian, and writer.
Early Life
The versatile Edinburgh native was born on 4th December 1930.
His educational journey began at institutions like James Gillespie’s High School and The Royal High School.
After his school years, young Ronald felt a strong pull towards acting. Even then, he was already performing in plays at his church youth club.
Realising His Dream
However, sooner or later, every young man faces military service, and Corbett was no exception. This meant he had to put his acting aspirations on hold for a while.
Once his service was complete, Ronald pursued his true passion. He decided to kickstart his acting career not in his native Edinburgh, but in London.
From Perceived Flaw to Signature Trait
Interestingly, Ronald had a distinctive physical trait that became his personal “trademark.” He was quite short, standing at just 1.55 metres (5 feet 1 inch). This detail not only set him apart from his colleagues but also allowed him to play “younger” roles.
What’s more, he often joked about his “compactness” himself, which endeared him to audiences.
Among Ronald’s early works, it’s worth mentioning his roles in films such as You’re Only Young Twice, Rockets Galore!, Casino Royale, Some Will, Some Won’t, and No Sex Please, We’re British.
A Winning Partnership
A significant phase in Corbett’s career was his collaboration with Ronnie Barker on the project The Frost Report. This show captivated audiences with its unique blend of music, satirical monologues, and sketches. The chemistry between Ronnie and Ronald was so strong that many speculated about their close bond.
These rumours were further fuelled by their appearance in the “Class sketch.” Corbett’s short stature became a genuine highlight of the sketch, with many jokes revolving around it.
Beloved Duo
In 1971, the beloved duo of Corbett and Barker surprised thousands of television viewers with a new show. This was the comedy sketch show The Two Ronnies, which aired from 1971 to 1987. It mainly consisted of musical numbers and sketches.
Speaking of this show, it’s worth mentioning an unusual technique Ronald successfully employed in one episode.
He stretched a single joke into a short story, drawing it out for several minutes. During his monologue, he’d even allow himself to lose his train of thought.
It’s fair to say that this quirky method proved quite successful with the audience. Viewers found it all incredibly funny and witty.
Incredible Charisma
Overall, Corbett possessed a unique charisma. This is precisely why his work was so adored by audiences. It was impossible not to remember him or for him not to stand out among his peers.
Aside from The Two Ronnies, he gained immense popularity for his role in the sitcom Sorry!, where he played a 40-year-old man living by the rules of his domineering mother.
The show resonated with viewers and enjoyed a long run, airing from 1981 to 1988.
An Extraordinary Personality
It’s fair to say that Corbett was a unique example of someone who excelled equally in two roles.
Specifically, we’re talking about his professions as an actor and a presenter. Regardless of the role Ronald took on for the audience, the result was always top-notch.
For instance, in 1994, a television quiz show hosted by Corbett, called Small Talk, hit the screens. This programme proved highly engaging for the public, leading to its broadcast until 1998.
Another Sensation
Later, Ronald’s career transitioned primarily to supporting roles. He also appeared in commercials.
However, a project that once again caused a sensation among viewers emerged in 2005. This was related to the revival of Corbett’s partnership with Ronnie Barker, in a programme called The Two Ronnies Sketchbook.
From 2006 onwards, the artist made numerous appearances in various shows, including The F Word, Sarah Jane Adventures, and Little Britain Abroad.
“Dark” Humour
In 2010, Ronald starred in a rather unconventional comedy titled Burke & Hare. The humour in this film can accurately be described as “dark.” This is because the plot was based on real events that took place in Edinburgh in the 1820s: a series of murders committed to “supply” corpses to Robert Knox, one of the most renowned anatomists and surgeons. The doctor needed the bodies for dissection.
An Unusual Project
Also in 2010, Corbett was given the chance to host a rather unusual programme. This was Ronnie Corbett’s Supper Club. The show’s premise involved guests choosing a culinary dish, and Ronald’s task was to prepare it as accurately as possible. Of course, the cooking process was accompanied by engaging conversation, generously “seasoned” with Corbett’s signature humour.
Thus, Ronald Corbett remains one of Edinburgh’s brightest television personalities. His ability to turn any situation into something hilarious made him truly unique. And his ironic attitude towards his own appearance was a testament to his incredible friendliness and wit.
Sadly, Ronald’s life journey came to an end in 2016. But the memory of him and his sharp jokes lives on. This truly means his creative path was not in vain.
Sources:
- https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2016/mar/31/ronnie-corbett-obituary
- https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/tvandradio/bbc/8217498/The-One-Ronnie-BBC-One-A-timeline-of-Ronnie-Corbetts-career.html
- https://m.imdb.com/name/nm0179196/bio/
- https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2016/03/31/ronnie-corbett-a-fine-comic-and-an-entertainment-treasure/Â
