Beloved actor John Clegg, famed for his portrayal of La Di Da Gunner ‘Paderewski’ Graham in the BBC sitcom ‘It Ain’t Half Hot Mum’, has passed away at the age of 90.
He also became well known for his appearances in the classic comedy ‘Dad’s Army’ and was a cherished figure in the theatre community.
Clegg was confirmed to have “died peacefully in care” and “will be missed by all his friends from the theatre, his friends in Chichester and his family.”
A private funeral service is scheduled for August 29th in Chichester, West Sussex. The sad news of his death was shared on Tuesday through an announcement in The Telegraph, with Morris Bright, a Board Director at Elstree Studios, also paying tribute.
On X, previously known as Twitter, Morris Bright expressed his condolences: “We is very sorry indeed to hear that La Di Da Gunner Graham, actor John Clegg, has gone to that great concert party in the sky, aged 90. He certainly was one of the boys who entertained us.”, reports the Mirror.
The British Comedy Society also took to X to honour Clegg’s memory: “We’re saddened to learn of the death of actor John Clegg, best known as It Ain’t Half Hot Mum’s Padrewski, Gunner Graham. He was 90.”
Fans have been sharing their heartfelt tributes online, with comments such as “Rest in peace lovely boy,” and “Mr lah di dah gunner Graham brilliantly played.”
Others expressed their condolences, saying, “Sorry to hear this news RIP #JohnClegg,” and “Very sad news indeed that the Actor John Clegg sadly passed away RIP Sir.”
After his notorious role in It Ain’t Half Hot Mum, Clegg made numerous appearances on television and film including Dad’s Army, Are You Being Served? and Bless This House. He also featured as Clifford Howes in the soap opera Crossroads in 1978.