A wave of nostalgia is set to wash over the Christmas season as the iconic comedy duo, Cannon and Ball, return to television screens after four decades. Their beloved 1985 Christmas special, a vibrant snapshot of 80s entertainment, is being resurrected for a new generation – and a joyful reunion for long-time fans.
Tommy Cannon and Bobby Ball burst onto the scene in the late 1970s, quickly becoming a Saturday night staple on ITV. Their infectious energy and perfectly timed slapstick routines captivated millions, offering a welcome escape filled with laughter and lighthearted fun. The show ran for nearly a decade, cementing their place in British television history.
The return of the Christmas special isn’t a solitary event; it’s the beginning of a full season of classic episodes. This offers a rare opportunity to revisit the duo’s comedic brilliance, reminding audiences of a simpler time when family entertainment reigned supreme. It’s a gift for those who remember, and an introduction for those who missed it the first time around.
For Tommy Cannon, now 87, the news is profoundly moving. He speaks of a joy that transcends words, a deep satisfaction in seeing their work back on national television. It’s a testament to the enduring power of their comedy, and the lasting bond he shared with Bobby Ball.
“We made the show with love, mischief, and a bond that never broke,” Cannon reflects, his voice filled with emotion. “To know people can sit down again – families, old fans, and new generations – and laugh with us touches my heart.” He anticipates watching alongside viewers, reliving cherished memories.
The duo’s journey began humbly, as welders in an Oldham factory in the 1960s. Their shared passion for making people laugh led them to working men’s clubs, and eventually to the national stage with a breakthrough appearance on the talent show, Opportunity Knocks in 1968.
Their success wasn’t without its complexities. While their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, their off-stage relationship experienced periods of strain. For three years, they barely spoke outside of work, a silence that eventually gave way to a renewed and deeper friendship.
The loss of Bobby Ball in 2020, to Covid-19 at the age of 76, left a void in the world of comedy and in Cannon’s life. The outpouring of grief from fans, lining the streets for his funeral, underscored the profound impact they had on the nation’s collective heart.
This Christmas, as many search for a comforting escape amidst a somewhat underwhelming television schedule, the return of Cannon and Ball offers a beacon of pure, unadulterated joy. It’s a reminder that some things truly are timeless, and that laughter remains the greatest gift of all.
The 1985 Christmas special will air on December 20, promising a festive dose of classic comedy. The launch date for the season of classic episodes is eagerly awaited, ready to bring a touch of 80s magic back into homes across the country.
