Acting veteran Bernard Cribbins, who worked wonders on Children’s TV, has passed away, his agent has confirmed.
The TV and film star was aged 93 at the time of his death.
He was known for his role in The Railway Children, parts in the Carry On series as well as narrating The Wombles.
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Bernard Cribbins’ death was announced by his agent today, July 28, in a statement.
His death comes a year after the actor tragically lost his wife after 66 years of marriage.
‘He was unique’
Gavin Barker Associates said: “Beloved actor Bernard Cribbins OBE has passed away at the age of 93.
“His career spanned seven decades with such diverse work ranging from films like ‘The Railway Children’ and the ‘Carry On’ series, hit 60’s song ‘Right Said Fred’, a notorious guest on ‘Fawlty Towers’ and narrating ‘The Wombles’.
“He worked well into his 90’s, recently appearing in ‘Doctor Who’ and the CBeebies series ‘Old Jack’s Boat’. He lost his wife of 66 years, Gill, last year.
“Bernard’s contribution to British entertainment is without question. He was unique, typifying the best of his generation, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”
According to reports, he was working on an audiobook on his life.
Bernard Cribbins incredible career
The TV star became a household name thanks to his work on many TV shows and classic Children’s series.
Cribbins made more than 100 appearances on Jackanory and famously narrated The Wombles. He also featured in Coronation Street and played his part in the Doctor Who reboot.
The actor also starred in several Carry On movies, as well as 1967’s Casino Royale.
The star even dabbled in music and released hit songs, including Hole In The Ground and Right Said Fred in 1962.
Born in Oldham, he became a favourite with young audiences as he made his mark on the Children’s entertainment industry.
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‘A genuine national treasure’
Photo by Ferdaus Shamim/WireImage
Tributes have poured in for the acting veteran online and on social media.
One fan wrote: “The wonderful Bernard Cribbins has left us at 93 he will be sadly missed.”
Another added: “Devastating news this morning, Bernard Cribbins has sadly died at the age of 93. A legend that had been star of theatre, TV and Film for over seven decades. He will be greatly missed Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
While a third said: “What awfully sad news about Bernard Cribbins he will always be Wilf from Doctor Who to me”.
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Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Bernard Cribbins.
This man was such a special, unique, beloved talent in the world. He will be remembered by many generations, forever.
My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP to a wonderful man. pic.twitter.com/N8O6lR75Dy
— Bad Wolf Archives (@BadWolfArchives) July 28, 2022
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‘Fans bawling’ over Russel T Davies’ tribute
One fan said they were “bawling” after reading Russell T Davies’ “beautifully written” tribute to the star.
Russell penned on Instagram: “I love this man. I love him. That’s him as Snout in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. D’you fancy doing some Shakespeare, Bernard? “Let me see the script.” He knew everyone!
“He’d talk about the Beatles and David Niven, and how he once sat on the stairs at a party impersonating bird calls with T H White. Then he’d add, ‘I said to Ashley Banjo last week…’ He loved being in Doctor Who.
“He said, ‘Children are calling me grandad in the street!’ His first day was on location with Kylie Minogue, but all eyes, even Kylie’s, were on Bernard. He’d turned up with a suitcase full of props, just in case, including a rubber chicken.
“And what an actor. Oh, really though, what a wonderful actor.
“We once took him to the TV Choice Awards and sent him up on his own to collect the award, and the entire room stood up and cheered him. That’s a lovely memory.
“He’d phone up and say, ‘I’ve got an idea! What if I attack a Dalek with a paintball gun?!’ Okay, Bernard, in it went!
“He loved Gill with all his heart; he mentioned her in every conversation we ever had. A love story for the ages. I’m so lucky to have known him. Thanks for everything, my old soldier. A legend has left the world.”