Ian Lavender, last surviving star of Dad's Army, dies aged 77
5 February 2024, 12:45 | Updated: 5 February 2024, 13:22
Dad's Army actor Ian Lavender, who played Private Pike in the classic sitcom, has died at the age of 77.
Listen to this article
Loading audio...
The Birmingham-born actor was aged just 22 when he first stared playing the hapless platoon member Pike.
Dad's Army made him a national treasure, and he starred in the show for 10 years alongside the likes of Arthur Lowe and Clive Dunn.
Lavender, who passed away on Friday (February 2), was the last surviving main cast member of the series.
The actor had a successful acting career, also playing Derek in EastEnders from 2001, appearing in over 200 episodes.
Ian trained at the Old Vic Theatre School in London and went on to star in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.
Ian's death was announced by the Dad's Army social media accounts on Monday afternoon. The post read: "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."
