BIOGRAPHY
Duncan Norvelle (1958–2024) Camp comic, TV staple and “Chase me” catchphrase icon
Duncan A. Norvelle was born on 2 April 1958 in Hoton, Leicestershire, England. He grew up working with his father in painting and decorating, but had a natural gift for making people laugh. Early on he entered talent contests and began to hone impressions and comedy routines in working men’s clubs.
His big break came when Lionel Blair invited him to appear on Saturday Royal, and audiences liked him so much that he was booked for further episodes. From the early 1980s, he became a regular on variety and light entertainment television, appearing on shows such as Wogan, The Bob Monkhouse Show, Blankety Blank, Bullseye, and The Keith Harris Show, among others.
Norvelle’s act leaned on a camp, flirtatious persona. His catchphrase “Chase me” became instantly recognisable. Despite the camp character, he was married three times in his life. His comedy was clean and cheeky rather than crude, and he kept a family-friendly style.
He once hosted a pilot dating show called It’s a Hoot, intended as a precursor to Blind Date, but ultimately did not continue as a presenter, while Cilla Black became the face of the show.
In 2012 Duncan suffered a major stroke that left him partially paralysed on his left side. He spent months in the hospital, and many believed he might never perform again. But he defied expectations, gradually recovering and returning to the stage. He made a comeback in 2015 and used his later act to raise awareness of stroke and disability, sometimes changing his catchphrase from “Chase me” to “Push me” in reference to his condition.
Throughout his career, he toured in pantomime, cabaret, theatre and on cruise ships. He shared bills and stages with major names in variety and entertainment. He also worked as an after-dinner speaker and was active in the cabaret circuit even after health setbacks.
Duncan Norvelle died on 12 December 2024 at Pilgrim Hospital in Boston, Lincolnshire, aged 66, from a chest infection and sepsis. He is survived by his partner, Linda Trevallion, and by his children, Yasmin, Sophie, and Jack.
He is remembered as a charismatic performer, a comic who brought joy in venues of all sizes and someone who refused to let illness silence him.
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