Dads Army Frank star Ian Lavenders life – EastEnders to quitting television

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It’s been over 40 years since one of the nation’s most beloved sitcoms Dad's Army aired and sadly all of its stars have passed away – bar one.

Private Frank Pike, the youngest member of the cast when the show launched in 1968, played by Ian Lavender is still going strong at 75.

The Brummie actor was only 22 when he first appeared in Dad’s Army and since the show has had a prolific career.

Read more: Dad's Army creators were 'woke' back in 1960s and 1970s without even knowing it

He trained at the esteemed Old Vic Theatre School in London and went on to star in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.

But most memorably, Ian joined the cast of EastEnders in 2001 as Derek Harkinson, a gay pal of Pauline Fowler.

After Pauline tried to seduce him, he came out as gay in some memorable soap scenes.

Ian was in more than 200 episodes and then later returned as a guest to Albert Square in 2016, and for the final time, in 2017, before it was announced he would not be returning to the show.

He has not appeared on TV since.

Captain Mainwaring, played by star actor Arthur Lowe, died of a stroke in 1982.

Sergeant Arthur Wilson, played by John Le Mesurier, died in 1971 following liver complications.

Meanwhile, Frank Williams, who played Timothy Farthing in Dad’s Army, has passed away at the age of 90, a friend has confirmed.

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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!"

Fans flocked to pay tribute as one said: od 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 next:

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  • Eastenders

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