Jack Smethurst has passed away at the age of 89.
The actor is best remembered for playing the leading role of bigoted working-class simpleton Eddie Booth in the 1970s comedy series Love Thy Neighbour.
The star died peacefully at home surrounded by his family this week.
As well as starring in Love Thy Neighbour, Jack also appeared in For The Love Of Ada, Carry On Sergeant, The Rag Trade; Dinnerladies, Here’s Harry, Watch Your Stern and Doctor At Large.
However, the level of popularity that he received from the infamous sitcom Love Thy Neighbour lead him to appear as himself in the feature film adaptation of fellow hit ITV comedy Man About The House.
(Image: FilmMagic)
Jack was born in Manchester on 9th April 1932 and raised in Collyhurst.
Before he pursued a career in televsion, the actor completed national service with the RAF. He later attended the London Academy of Dramatic Arts.
While taking part in a Radio 4 documentary in 2016 called Still Loving Thy Neighbour?, Jack discussed the sitcom’s popularity, which was seen by up to 17 million viewers each week.
He said: “For a while after Love Thy Neighbour finished – and I’m not ashamed to tell you this – but I couldn’t get arrested.”
(Image: Mirrorpix)
However, he also confessed that he found it very difficult to land other parts due to playing the controversial character.
Jack added: “I don’t think it was the racial content; I think it is that your face is so familiar. I think people are a lot more adaptable now in accepting that an actor who was playing one role is playing a different role this time. It must have lost me a few roles, but I more than made up for it.”
Discussing his career on the documentary, which later included roles in Coronation Street and Last Of The Summer Wine, Jack concluded: “It’s been a rewarding one. I’ve enjoyed every minute.”
(Image: FilmMagic)
Since the news of his passing broke, fans shared their tributes online.
Taking to Twitter, one fan penned: “R.I.P. Jack Smethurst.”
Another said: “Very sad news . Sorry for your loss . I was a young wee nipper when I was watching your Dad in Love Thy Neighbour . Great memories. RIP Jack.”
Jack married his wife Barbara Nicholls in 1957, the couple share four children.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
