Which comedian's death occurred during a broadcast of Live from Her Majesty's?

The death of British comedian, Tommy Cooper (1921 - 1984), occurred during a broadcast of Live from Her Majesty's, a variety show that aired Sunday nights on ITV. While performing one of his famous skits, Cooper suddenly collapsed into a sitting position. Seconds later, his entire body slumped over. Several more agonizing moments elapsed before the TV station finally cut to a commercial.

What was the reason to prolong the viewing of Cooper's body? Everyone seemed to think the fall was part of his act (skit), including the audience. Perhaps the most disturbing part of this TV broadcast was the laughter rippling through the crowd as Cooper slowly died. The people watching had no way of knowing what was truly happening. But, in hindsight the dichotomy of death and laughter is a thought that is very chilling.

The individuals around Cooper tried to resuscitate him; but, they could not. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Westminster Hospital, from a heart attack. He was 63 years old when he died. In the final analysis, public opinion indicated that the irony of the Cooper broadcast was not lost on anyone who saw it.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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10 Comments

Peter Alexander Vernon

He lived for magic and comedy a true genius,better to die what you love to do.R.IP Tommy

Sally Onyett

I watched this live performance and like all Tommy Cooper fans thought it was part of the act. It was just the sort of silly thing he would do. I too laughed until the adverts came on too soon. He died to the sound of his audience laughing , and that can’t be a bad thing for a comedian. RIP Tommy. One of the best 💕

June White

Remember watching and thinking it was part of the act.

Jerry Edwards

His collapse came after his able assistant helped him put on a heavy coat. It looked part of the act. I remember it very clearly as it was the day before my birthday and was what we watched on a Sunday evening in those days. Tommy Cooper was an absolutely superb comedian/magician and is sorely missed, even now 36 years later.

Margaret O'Neill

A true entertainer till the last! He was brilliant..

Lorna Shipton

I remember this as though it was yesterday, thoroughly enjoying his act when he suddenly collapsed backwards through the curtains. If it had been part of the act he would have reappeared within a couple of seconds, but this didn't happen. A great loss to the comedy scene, and a wonderful man.