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Dad’s Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender has died

Published 13:34 5 Feb 2024 GMT

Updated 13:39 5 Feb 2024 GMT

Nina McLaughlin
Dad’s Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender has died

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The actor was the last surviving member of the Dad’s Army main cast.

English stage, film and television actor Ian Lavender, best known for his roles in Dad's Army and EastEnders, has died at the age of 77. Lavender played the role of Private Pike for 80 episodes of the classic war comedy sitcom from 1968 to 1977, on top of appearing in its two movie spin-offs in 1971 and 2016. He also played the role of Derek Harkinson in the soap opera EastEnders for 240 episodes. The actor also enjoyed an illustrious theatre career, starring in performances of everything from Shakespeare to The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Dad’s Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender has died

Tributes have begun pouring in for the actor, with the Dad's Army Radio Show Facebook page posting the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened to hear the passing of the wonderful, Ian Lavender. “In what truly marks the end of an era, Ian was the last surviving member of the Dad’s Army main cast. His wonderful performance as Private Frank Pike will live on for decades to come. “He leaves behind a legacy of laughter enjoyed by millions. We will dedicate this year’s tour to his memory. “Our thoughts and love are with Ian’s wonderful wife Miki, their family and close friends.”
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Dad’s Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender has died