Sir Ken Dodd is battling a severe chest infection in hospital.
Sir Ken Dodd
The 90-year-old comedian was taken by ambulance to a facility in Liverpool last Friday (12.01.18) when he struggled to breathe after being struck down with flu, and he's remained there ever since.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Doddy's a fighter but flu is very serious for a 90 year old.
"He was struggling last week and had trouble breathing so an ambulance was called and they've decided to keep him in until he's well enough."
Ken - whose beloved wife Anne, 76, has stayed by his bedside - is said to believe he picked up the illness at his Liverpool Echo Arena gig in December, which took place around the time Australian flu swept through the country.
A spokesperson for the legendary TV star, who was knighted last year for his comedy career and charity work, confirmed he is in hospital as a precautionary measure.
The representative said: "He's had a chest infection and is receiving treatment for that. He's expected to make a recovery.
"He went in for a check on Friday because with everything that has been going around and Ken's age, it's better to be safe than sorry.
"They are just keeping a close watch on him and making sure all is well."
The celebrated performer became popular in the 1960s with his recording of 'Tears', which was the UK's third-best-selling single back then, rivalling The Beatles.
He became an OBE in 1982, and is still seen touring the country with shows which are famous for going on well past the curtain call.
Talking about his passion for performing live, he previously said: "One of the happiest things is the joy and pleasure it brings to your family and friends and then you say to yourself it is a great honour and I just hope I'll be worthy of it."
And he has vowed to continue performing despite turning 90 in November.
He said: "I won't hang up my tickling stick up, till I have to."