Actor Frank Williams has sadly passed away at the age of 90, a friend has confirmed.
Frank’s Facebook page posted a message saying: “So sorry to say that our beloved friend, colleague and actor, Frank Williams, passed away this morning. He was almost 91, and we are grateful for all the years of joy, laughter and happiness he brought to so many. Thank you Frank!”
Frank became well known for playing the role of Timothy Farthing in the hit 1970’s comedy Dad’s Army.
READ MORE: Dad’s Army creators were ‘woke’ back in 1960s and 1970s without even knowing it
Throughout the episodes, he often became entangled in the platoon’s misadventures, usually by accident.
(Image: Getty Images)
His death means that Ian “Private Pike” Lavender, 76, is the now the only surviving cast member from the series.
All the other favourites such as Arthur Lowe who played Captain Mainwaring, John LeMesurier who was Sergeant Wilson and Clive Dunn as Lance-Corporal Jones are gone.
Frank was born on July, 2 1931 in London and attended Ardingly College in West Sussex and Hendon School. He then went on to attend Hendon County School.
According to reports, Frank began his acting career in repertory theatre, most notably at the Watford Palace Theatre, which was run by Dad’s Army creator Jimmy Perry.
(Image: BBC)
A number of his future co-stars, including Michael Knowles, Colin Bean, Donald Hewlett, and Mavis Pug, were also introduced to Williams.
Frank joined Dad’s Army during its third series in 1969 and appeared on and off until the last ever episode in 1977.
He and the church verger Mr Yeatman became something of a double act with their petty squabbling.
Frank went on to appear in sitcoms including You Rang, M’Lord?, Hi-de-Hi! and What’s Up Nurse.
(Image: ©Stan Kujawa)
But in 2016, he reprised his role of the vicar of St Aldhelm’s, in the 2016 movie remake with Toby Jones playing Mainwaring.
He loved meetings fans of the show and often attended Dad’s Army conventions.
Frank shared a home in Edgeware in London with Dad’s Army stage show pal Ronnie Grainge.
He was too upset to speak about his pal’s passing.
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
Since the news of his death was announced on Facebook, fans have shared their thoughts and condolences to the late star.
One person wrote: “God Bless Frank who together with that great cast and writers brought so many people happiness over many years on Dads Army .Deepest sincere condolences to Frank’s Family and friends at this time.”
Meanwhile another said: “Thank you Frank for bringing so much fun ,laughter & joy to Dad`s Army many fans RIP.”
READ MORE:
. Dad’s Army is hated by Europe, says show legend Frank Williams ‘who is never recognised’
. Dad’s Army creators were ‘woke’ back in 1960s and 1970s without even knowing it
. Dad’s Army star revealed he slipped x-rated word into show
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
