Entertainer Ronnie Corbett has died aged 85, his publicist has confirmed.
The actor and comedian died surrounded by family, a statement said.
"Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation's best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family," the publicist's statement, quoted by BBC News, said.
"They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time."
He was best known for his sketch show with the late Ronnie Barker, The Two Ronnies, which ran from 1971 to 1987.
After his death was announced people began sharing the show's "Four Candles" sketch, widely regarded as one of the funniest ever on British TV.
Of course I'm now going to spend the next hour looking up Ronnie Corbett / Ronnie Barker sketches... https://t.co/dAwf1qLS1Y
In 2010 he starred in an updated version of the sketch with Harry Enfield.
Many people said they would light four candles in Corbett's memory.
As seems appropriate, I will be lighting four candles in memory of the great and good Ronnie Corbett.
tonight I shall light Four Candles. RIP Ronnie Corbett
I'll be lighting four candles to remember Ronnie Corbett #RIPRonnieCorbett
Aw Ronnie Corbett. Someone should light four candles in his memory.
Corbett regularly appeared on panel shows and made cameos in other comedies, including Extras.
He also famously fell off a treadmill while recording the video for Peter Kay's charity single "Is This the Way to Amarillo", but after seeing the clip decided it was funny and asked for it to be kept in.
Entertainer Sir Bruce Forsyth said today was “one of the saddest days of my life”.
“Ronnie was a friend, someone I admire so much. It’s a very, very sad day, I’m going to miss him like crazy,” he told BBC News.
A range of other stars paid tribute to Corbett.
Goodbye my friend and comedy idol #RonnieCorbett Thank you for all the laughs. It was the greatest honour to know and work with you.
RIP the lovely, funny legend Ronnie Corbett. It was an absolute honour & joy to have known him.
#RonnieCorbett One of the loveliest Kumars guests, always generous with his time & genuine off the cuff wit . A sad goodnight from him #RIP
So saddened that Ronnie Corbett has passed away. A truly great comedian, a great man and a great friend. He was one of the special ones. RIP
And it's good night from Ronnie Corbett . Thanks for all the laughs mate.
So sad to hear the news about Ronnie Corbett, I've always loved his work. .. A true legend , my thoughts are with his family xx
