Dad’s Army creator Jimmy Perry has died

Jimmy Perry, co-creator of ‘Dad’s Army’ has died.

The 93-year-old British sitcom writer was also responsible for the likes of ‘It Ain’t Half Hot Mum’, ‘Hi-De-Hi!’, and ‘You Rang M’Lord?’ - all of which he created alongside fellow Brit, David Croft.

He died Sunday morning at his home, following a brief illness.

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“After a brief period of illness, Jimmy Perry died at 10.30am this morning, at home, surrounded by loved ones,” revealed his agent, Tim Hancock. “His family would like to grieve in private. As his agent of many years, I have never met anyone as generous, dignified, funny and with as big a heart as Jimmy. He will be sadly missed.”

Of course, ‘Dad’s Army’ aired on the BBC between 1968 and 1977, and with its hilarious gags and typically British humour, became one of the most popular British sitcoms of the twentieth century.

But where did the idea come from?

Like much of his work with David Croft, the idea behind ‘Dad’s Army’ came from Perry’s own experiences - this particular project drew on his time as a young man in the Home Guard during the Second World War after he was simply too young to sign up for the military.

In fact, the character Private Pike was based on Perry himself.

‘Hi-De-Hi!’ was also based on his own time as a Butlin’s redcoat.

Comedians and colleagues have been paying their respect via Twitter… with many in the business considering him to be one of the big names responsible for the golden era of British comedy.

“RIP Jimmy Perry,” said comedian Jack Dee. “Amazing contribution to British telly. Watched Dad’s Army only yesterday. Still as funny as when I watched it as a kid.”

Pointless presenter, Richard Osman said: “When St. Peter asks for Jimmy Perry’s name he’s got a great gag lined up #ripjimmyperry”

“So sad we have lost #JimmyPerry,” said ‘Allo Allo’ actress, Vicki Michelle. “A brilliant comedy writer & true gentleman. He leaves us such a legacy.”

Jimmy Perry died 23 October 2016 aged 93.

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Picture Credit: BBC, WENN.

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