Vic Reeves Admits He Suffered ‘Sympathy Pains’ When Comedy Partner Bob Mortimer Was Sick

They were famed on Shooting Stars for smashing each other on the head with fake frying pans.

But Vic Reeves has admitted he experienced “sympathy pains” for his comedy pal Bob Mortimer when his sidekick was seriously ill with a heart condition.

The double act, known as Vic and Bob, below, had to delay their 25th anniversary tour in October so Mortimer, 56, could have an operation after his arteries were found to be 95 per cent blocked.

Speaking for the first time since the health scare, 57-year-old Reeves said he suffered pains in his chest during Mortimer’s illness.

He told the Daily Mirror: “I had a physical pain in my heart when I knew Bob was ill.

“It was like sympathy pains – I truly felt unwell. It’s something that only happens when you’re really close to someone. Bob is like a brother to me, so I literally had chest pains. That happens when there’s a strong bond.”

He added: “I resolved that if anything would’ve happened to him I wouldn’t have done comedy again. I would’ve retired from it. I couldn’t imagine doing it without him.”

Dad-of-four Reeves, pictured above whacking Mortimer during a skit, also explained the ordeal scared him into a healthier lifestyle.

He said: “I used to smoke, but I’ve given that up since Bob was ill.”

Pictures Getty Images