Yoz Grahame's Cheerleader: Debbie Barham, 1976

April 29, 2003

Debbie Barham, 1976 - 2003

I first saw the name "D.A. Barham" in 1994: she was one of the first customers at Delphi UK, the tiny offshoot of the then-huge US online service, and I was doing phone support in my spare time from university. She was funny, smart and wild, making a big difference to the otherwise-dull forums. After that, I started seeing her name in lots of other places: not just online, but in the credits of almost every topical comedy show on TV. (I'm sure that nearly every person in Britain has laughed at one of her gags) In 1997, I was being shown around the offices of my new job when she recognised me and pulled me out into the hallway for a chat - we ended up working on the same game. The last time I saw her in person was when we went for a drink in Soho two years ago. The last time I heard from her was when she commented on one of my blog entries a mere three months ago. (I meant to mail her. Really, I did. Idiot.)

I had no idea she was dead until this morning, when I found Bruce Hyman's send-off in the Guardian. It will be a few days until the stunned feeling wears off. She was too talented and way too fucking young. I have various memories of her illness, but I'd rather not dwell on them. (I know it'd piss her off.) On the illness itself: the most shocking Google query I've ever run.

UPDATE (30/04): Cover story of today's Guardian G2 section.

Posted by Yoz at April 29, 2003 12:10 PM | TrackBack

Comments

Goddamn fucking hell.

Debs was the first professional comedy writer I know who told me the stuff I wrote was funny. For that alone I owe her more than I'll be ever to repay now.

And it's true that I never ceased to be amazed at the number of times her name would crop up in the credits of a comedy programme. Like Colin Bostock-Smith, except funny.

And I did email her, Yoz, and I don't feel any better, so don't beat yourself up about it. :(

We need to stop losing funny DAs.

Posted by: Tim on April 29, 2003 01:30 PM

Hi,

I truly am sadden to read of Debbie's death. It truly sad to see yet another sufferer die from this illness.

in relation to your search, not all of us are 'pro-eating disordered'. there are many legitmate sufferers out there that do not gloat about the illness and/or post on such forums. i for one, despite numerous hospital admissions, am quite secretive about my struggles and live a somewhat reclusive exsistence.

i send my deepest sympathy to you and all that knew deb.

condolences,

Posted by: Jo on May 9, 2003 12:37 PM

Hi
I'm very sad and shocked to hear of Debbies death.
I found her a true inspiration to the world of comedy.
It is such a shame that another brilliant,bright,
attractive talent is lost in this way.
My thoughts go out to all her family and friends
who have just lost a beautiful person.

Nick

Posted by: Nick Endacott on May 27, 2003 11:35 PM

Thanks for all the comments guys - Debs would have been suitably embarrassed. We've all lost one of the funniest parts of this world, but she'll be making me laugh for years, and you too, I hope.

Just keep remembering......and if you've got any memories you want to share, mail debs@barhamuk.com. We'll be putting a tribute site together shortly.

Peter (Debs Dad)

Posted by: Peter Barham on May 29, 2003 04:35 PM

Online Directory

Posted by: Need List on February 28, 2005 12:53 PM

Online Pharmacy

Posted by: Online Pharmacy on March 15, 2005 02:10 PM

Still I can find realy useful informations - isn`t it great?! Go on http://fragrance-oils.cooldvdshopping.com

Posted by: soap fragrance oil on March 18, 2005 02:00 AM