Actor Bernard Cribbins has died aged 93.
The famous actor who appeared in the likes of Carry On, Doctor Who and narrated The Wombles died at 93-years-old as his agents Gavin Barker Associates confirmed the tragic news.
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The statement read: “Beloved actor Bernard Cribbins OBE has passed away at the age of 93.
“His career spanned seven decades with such diverse work ranging from films like The Railway Children and the Carry On series, hit 60s song Right Said Fred, a notorious guest on Fawlty Towers and narrating The Wombles.
(Image: Getty Images)
“He worked well into his 90s, recently appearing in Doctor Who and the CBeebies series Old Jack’s Boat.
“He lost his wife of 66 years, Gill, last year.
“Bernard’s contribution to British entertainment is without question. He was unique, typifying the best of his generation, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”
The actor became widely known for his range of roles, but he became particularly popular with young audiences after narrating The Wombles for many years.
(Image: Mirrorpix)
Bernard played Wilfred Mott in Doctor Who between 2007 and 2010 and also appeared on Coronation Street in 2003 as Wally Bannister – the love interest of Blanche Hunt for a short time.
It was also reported that Cribbins would be returning alongside David Tennant and Catherine Tate in a 2023 Doctor Who episode to celebrate the programme’s 60th anniversary.
Throughout his long career he has been highly respected, with the star receiving an OBE for services to drama in 2011.
Tributes have since poured in for the late star as fans celebrated his time on-screen with sweet messages.
(Image: PA)
The Charlatans lead singer Tim Burgess has paid tribute to Bernard Cribbins following his death as he wrote: “Farewell Bernard Cribbins. Safe travels.”
Russell Davies said: “I love this man. I love him.,” as he reflected on his best memories and said: “He loved being in Doctor Who. He said, ‘Children are calling me grandad in the street!’ His first day was on location with Kylie Minogue, but all eyes, even Kylie’s, were on Bernard.
“He’d turned up with a suitcase full of props, just in case, including a rubber chicken. And what an actor. Oh, really though, what a wonderful actor.”
He also praised his love for his late wife as Russell added: “He loved Gill with all his heart; he mentioned her in every conversation we ever had. A love story for the ages. I’m so lucky to have known him. Thanks for everything, my old soldier. A legend has left the world.”
(Image: PA Archive/Press Association Ima)
TV presenter Iain Lee added: “I grew up watching him and then so did my kids. Thanks for making my boys laugh. Bernard Cribbins RIP.”
Edward Russell, who works in the TV industry, wrote: “You’ll read a heap of tributes to the wonderful Bernard Cribbins today. I can only add that my own experience was of an utterly adorable man.
“A wonderful human being. He’d phone to say thank you for something and would chat for ages. That wonderful wonderful voice!”
Bernard Cribbins was born in Oldham in December 2918 and, after leaving school at the age of 13, he launched his career and joined the Oldham Repertory Theatre.
He made his West End debut in 1956 played the two Dromios in A Comedy of Errors.
He then continued to appear on screen with multiple TV shows under his belt.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
