Rodney Bewes dead: Star of 'The Likely Lads' dies, aged 79
The actor Rodney Bewes, best known for his role in British sitcom The Likely Lads, has died aged 79.
"It is with great sadness that we confirm that our dear client, the much loved actor Rodney Bewes, passed away this morning," his agent said in a statement.
"He had a funny anecdote for every occasion. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. We will miss him terribly."
Bewes played Bob Ferris in the 1960s BBC comedy series. The show was based on the friendship between two young working class men from Newcastle.
Bewes was born in Bingley in Yorkshire in 1937, but early health problems with asthma and bronchitis were among the reasons that prompted his family to move south, to Luton.
After spending two years in the RAF he attended RADA, but was expelled during his final year. He attributed this to "partying too hard", according to an interview in 2013.
Other screen appearances included playing the Knave of Hearts in the 1972 film adaptation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and an appearance in the 1984 Doctor Who serial Resurrection of the Daleks.
Bewes is survived by his four children and two grandchildren.
