Eric Morecambe lllness: What Was Eric Morecambe Suffering From?

In a diary entry dated August 17, 1967, during a summer season appearance in Great Yarmouth with his comedic partner Ernie Wise, Morecambe noted an unusual discomfort: “I have a slight pain on the left side around my heart. It’s most likely wind, but I’ve had it for about four days. That’s a hell of a time to have wind.” Little did he know, this seemingly minor discomfort would later unfold into a significant chapter in his health story.

The Hypochondriac’s Battle

Morecambe, a self-confessed hypochondriac, seldom dwelled on health concerns in his writings until after his first heart attack. At the time, he was grappling with a heavy load of unhealthy habits—smoking 60 cigarettes a day and indulging in heavy drinking. The repercussions of this lifestyle came crashing down in the early hours of November 8, 1968, following a show in Batley, Yorkshire.

The Near-Fatal Wake-Up Call

During a week of midnight performances at the Variety Club, Morecambe, oblivious to the warning signs, experienced pains in his right arm. Assuming it to be tennis elbow or rheumatism, he continued with his hectic schedule. However, as the pains escalated to his chest, he found himself unable to drive. A passerby came to his rescue, and at the second hospital they arrived at, Morecambe was diagnosed with a heart attack.

A Forced Hiatus and Lifestyle Changes

Morecambe, slated to perform at the London Palladium on November 18, 1968, had to miss the show due to his recovery. His absence was filled by Frankie Howerd and Mike Yarwood. After leaving the hospital on November 24, 1968, with strict orders not to work for three months, Morecambe made pivotal lifestyle changes. He bid farewell to his cigarette habit, embracing the pipe, a promise he made in August 1967. He also reduced public engagements and took a much-needed six-month hiatus.

The Road to Recovery and a Triumphant Return

Morecambe’s resilience shone through as he returned to the stage at the Bournemouth Winter Gardens on July 27, 1969, alongside Ernie Wise. The audience greeted them with a four-minute standing ovation—a testament to the public’s enduring love for the iconic duo.

The Ongoing Battle

Despite his triumphant return, Morecambe’s health journey continued to be marked by challenges. A second heart attack struck in March 1979, leading to bypass surgery in June of the same year. The comedian faced these adversities with characteristic humor and courage, continuing to share laughter with audiences around the world.