UK

Dad's Army and It Ain't Half Hot Mum creator Jimmy Perry dies aged 93

The cast of the TV show Dad's Army. Picture by BBC
The cast of the TV show Dad's Army. Picture by BBC The cast of the TV show Dad's Army. Picture by BBC

JIMMY Perry, who created popular TV comedy shows like Dad's Army and It Ain't Half Hot Mum, has died aged 93 after a brief illness.

Perry, who worked closely with producer David Croft and was also responsible for Hi-de-Hi! and You Rang M'Lord?, died on Sunday morning at his home, his agent said.

His writing drew on his life experiences as a young member of the Home Guard during the Second World War and as a Butlin's holiday camp Redcoat.

People who worked with Perry and fans of his shows said he has left a great legacy.

Shane Allen, BBC controller of comedy commissioning, said Perry's work spanned decades and will be remembered for a long time to come.

He said: "Jimmy Perry is a Goliath of British comedy writing. He was behind some of the longest running and most loved sitcoms on British television spanning the 60s, 70s and 80s.

"His work will be enjoyed and appreciated for many years to come. Our thoughts are with his friends and loved ones at this sad time."

Actress Vicki Michelle, who has previously said Perry, Croft and 'Allo 'Allo writer Jeremy Lloyd were "largely responsible for the golden age of British comedy", tweeted: "So sad we have lost #JimmyPerry a brilliant comedy writer & true gentleman. He leaves us such a legacy."