Bobby Knutt (born Robert Andrew Wass; 25 November 1945 – 25 September 2017) was an English stand-up comedian and television actor known for character roles across British drama and soap. He began in live comedy and variety before establishing a steady screen career, earning a reputation for earthy humour and dependable supporting performances.
Early career and stand-up
Knutt started professionally in northern clubs and touring variety shows, where he refined a direct, working-class stage style. His experience as a stand-up comedian and pantomime performer provided a foundation for timing and audience connection that later served his television work.
Television work and notable roles
From the 1970s onward he appeared in a wide range of programmes. He is widely remembered for playing Albert Dingle in the soap Emmerdale. Other frequent credits included appearances in Last of the Summer Wine, Heartbeat, Hetty Wainthropp Investigates and All Creatures Great & Small. He also featured as Ron Sykes, a garage boss, in Coronation Street.
- Live comedy and variety that opened opportunities in television and theatre
- Guest and recurring roles across long-running British series
- Stage work and pantomime alongside screen appearances
Style and reputation
Colleagues and viewers recall Knutt for a naturalistic, unshowy approach. His comic roots made him adept at lightening dramatic scenes without undermining them, and casting directors often relied on him for credible, textured supporting parts.
Death and legacy
Knutt died suddenly of a heart attack in France on 25 September 2017 at the age of 71. Tributes highlighted both his early stand-up achievements and his long service as a familiar face on British television. For more information, consult contemporary obituaries and career summaries available online and in broadcast archives.