Special programme about the life of Bobby Ball, shown shortly after his death in late 2020.
Two versions were produced: a 30 minute version (first shown Sunday 15th November, 5:30pm on ITV) and an extended hour-long version (first shown on Wednesday 30th December, 10:15pm on ITV)
Narrated by Tommy Cannon, the show featured memories from Bobby’s family and friends, alongside clips from TV shows over the years.
The show featured Bobby’s wife Yvonne, and his children Darren, Robert and Joanne.
Guests sharing their memories of Bobby included Lee Mack, Sally Lindsay, Timothy Spall, Sherrie Hewson, Mick Miller, Lisa Riley, Hugh Dennis, Daniel Ryan, Jeff Pope, Joe Wilkinson, Derren Litten, Chris Moyles, Shane Richie, Phil Dale, Bernie Clifton, Antony Costa and Anita Harris
TV Magazine write-ups
Radio Times
Rock on, Tommy: the Bobby Ball Story 5.30pm ITV
A look back at the career of the man whose 1980s Saturday-night comedy show with Tommy Cannon drew audiences of 20 million.
Rock On, Tommy: The Bobby Ball Story 5.30pm
The comedy duo who were always braced for action
Total TV Guide
Rock On, Tommy: The Bobby Ball Story ITV Sunday
That catchphrase, those braces… This tribute to the comedy legend, who died last month, is narrated by his stage partner Tommy Cannon. With contributions from friends, family and co-stars, it tells how a factory welder from Oldham became one of the most loved stars on the box, including more recent appearances on Benidorm, I’m A Celebrity… and Not Going Out.
TV Times
Rock On, Tommy. Factual / 5:30pm / ITV
A tribute to the much-loved comic Bobby Ball who died last month aged 76. Those who knew him share their stories.
Bobby Ball 28 January 1944 – 28 October 2020
Bobby Ball, who shot to fame as one half of double act Cannon and Ball, died on 28 October, aged 76, after testing positive for COVID-19. Together with his comedy partner Tommy Cannon, Bobby regularly featured on our covers during their heyday in the 1980s.
Born Robert Harper in Oldham on 28 January1944, Bobby worked in a welding factory, where he met Tommy Derbyshire. The pair teamed up, renamed themselves Cannon and Ball, and played pubs and clubs before appearing on Opportunity Knocks in 1968 and Granada TV’s The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club in 1974. In 1979, ITV gave the duo their own series, The Cannon and Ball Show, which was a huge success. After the show ended in 1988, the pair continued to perform together.
Bobby also had a successful solo acting career, most recently in Not Going Out as Lee Mack’s ne’er-do-well dad Frank. After experiencing breathing problems last month, Bobby was admitted to hospital in Blackpool, where he died. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Yvonne, and his children.
‘Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated,’ said Tommy of hearing of Bobby’s passing.
What’s On TV
Farewell… Bobby Ball 1944 – 2020
Best known for…
Bobby shot to fame as one half of legendary comedy double act Cannon and Ball, alongside his long-time friend Tommy Cannon. The Cannon and Ball Show was watched by millions during the 1980s and spawned Bobby’s famous catchphrase, ‘Rock on, Tommy!’
Other achievements…
He appeared in a host of sitcoms, including Not Going Out, Mount Pleasant and Last of the Summer Wine. He also took part in I’m a Celebrity… Get Me out of Here! in 2005.
Family life…
Bobby died on 28 October at the age of 76 after testing positive for COVID-19. He’s survived by his wife, Yvonne, and his three children.