Comedian Frank Carson, best known for his appearances on The Comedians and his catchphrase “It’s a cracker!”, has died peacefully at his Blackpool home.
Striking it lucky in the 1960s, Carson was crowned winner of Opportunity Knocks three times and had a comic career than spanned five decades – during which time he was honoured by then-Pope John Paul II with the Papal knighthood of the order St. Gregory, became a member of the prestigious Grand Order of Water Rats and served as Mayor of Balbriggan, North Dublin twice.
In a statement from the comedian’s family:
“Husband, father, Gaga and comedian set off for his final gig today…He went peacefully at his home in Blackpool surrounded by his greatest fans – his extended family. We will be taking him home to Belfast to lay him to rest and celebrate his joyful life…It’s quieter down here now. God help them up there!!”
Celebrities and fellow comics have responded with fond tributes. Fellow comedian Richard Herring said:
“RIP, it was certainly the way he told them.”
Entertainer and contemporary of Carson, Lionel Blair, said:
“Extremely upset to hear the news that Frank Carson has passed away. My thoughts are with his family. I will deeply miss him.”
Frank Carson is survived by his wife Ruth, children Majella, Tony and Aidan, and ten grandchildren.
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