Beloved sitcom Dad's Army remains just as much of a hit in modern times despite finishing back in 1977. Original episodes of the BBC series are still being shown today, with the popularity of the comedy also resulting in two films and the modern spin-off Dad's Army: The Lost Episodes.
While the spirit and humour of Dad's Army continues to live on today, the original stars of the show have sadly passed on. Take a look to see the original cast and celebrate their work…
MORE: 7 facts about Dad's Army you may not have known
Private Pike - Ian Lavender
Ian Lavender very sadly passed away in February 2024, aged 77. The actor played Private Pike in the beloved TV show, and was just 22 when he was cast in the role. He went on to star in shows including EastEnders and Yes Minister. He was the last surviving main cast member of the series.
Speaking about the loss, Jon Petrie, the BBC’s director of comedy, said: “Ian was a much-loved actor and will be sorely missed by all those who knew him. In his role of Private Pike, in Dad’s Army, he delivered some of the most iconic and loved moments in the history of British comedy. Our thoughts are with his family.”
© Mark CuthbertCaptain Mainwaring - Arthur Lowe
Taking the lead role of Captain Mainwaring was Arthur Lowe. Arthur's role as the pompous caption was perhaps his most iconic role, but the actor also appeared in others shows such as Coronation Street and many other films. Arthur died 1982 aged 66 after suffering a stroke.
© Photo: Getty ImagesSergeant Arthur Wilson - John Le Mesurier
John le Mesurier was also perhaps best known for his role as Sergeant Wilson, often questioning Mainwaring's actions. However, John also starred in theatre productions of Shakespeare and Priestley plays. He also received a BAFTA for his role in TV play Traitor. John passed away in 1983 aged 71 after suffering liver complications.
© Photo: Getty ImagesLance Corporal Jack Jones - Clive Dunn
Clive Dunn played Lance Corporal Jack Jones, the "worrier" of the group. After serving as a trooper in the Second World War, Clive then pursued a career acting before landing the role in the sitcom in 1968. Clive died at his home in Portugal in 2012, aged 92.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrivate James Fazer - John Laurie
Scottish actor John Laurie played Private James Fazer, most loved for his catchphrase "We're doomed. Doomed!" John enjoyed huge success in acting, even prior to his role in the BBC sitcom, and often appeared in films directed by acting veteran Laurence Olivier. John died in 1980 aged 83.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrivate Charles Godfrey - Arnold Ridley
Playing Private Charles Godfrey was Arnold Ridley, who was known for his theatre work as well as TV work prior to starring in Dad's Army. Arnold died in 1984 aged 88 and actress Daisy Ridley is his great-niece.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrivate Joe Walker - James Beck
James Beck played Private Joe Walker – known as a 'black market spiv'. As well as Dad's Army, James had roles in TV shows such as Coronation Street and Sherlock Holmes. Sadly, James died in 1973 aged 44 after suffering pancreatitis while the show was still on air, meaning his character was written out of the show.
© Photo: Getty Images
