Comedian Bob Mortimer has paid tribute to his “lovely”, “brilliant” friend Chris Rea, following the death of the “Driving Home for Christmas” singer at the age of 74. Rea’s death was announced on Monday, with a statement on behalf of his wife and two children confirming he passed away peacefully in hospital after a short illness, surrounded by his family.
Mortimer, 66, shared a touching tribute on X, writing: “So so sad. A lovely brilliant funny giant of a bloke. Oh Man... RIP Chris... Boro legend forever. Love to family and friends.” The pair, both from the North East, developed a firm friendship over the years. In 1997, they recorded a version of Rea’s “Let’s Dance” when Middlesbrough FC reached the FA Cup final.
Mortimer later referenced his pal during a memorable episode of Would I Lie to You?, claiming he always cracks an egg into his bath after being advised to do so by Rea. The comedian brought further delight to fans by posting a picture of Rea in a bath with an egg on social media, a story that has been widely re-shared following the singer’s death.
The pair teamed up again in 2020 when Rea appeared in a Christmas episode of Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. Rea found fame in the late Seventies and Eighties with hits such as “Fool (If You Think It's Over)”, nominated for a Grammy, and “The Road to Hell”. His festive single “Driving Home for Christmas” was first released in 1986.
Speaking to The Independent just days before his death, Rea shared the story behind the track: “It has that hope and warmth to it, like all the classic Christmas songs. That and the frustration of being stuck in the motorway traffic – that’s what people relate to.” He also revealed he had been banned from driving when he wrote it, and it was originally intended for Van Morrison.
Rea endured several health issues, including a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer at age 33, which led to the removal of his pancreas, part of his stomach, and small intestine. In 2016, he suffered a stroke, which he described as a “very scary moment”. He is survived by his wife Joan and their daughters Josephine and Julia.
