Clive Dunn, English actor (d. 2012)

Clive Robert Benjamin Dunn (9 January 1920 – 6 November 2012) was a truly versatile English entertainer, celebrated for his expansive career as an actor, comedian, artist, author, and singer. He is most indelibly etched in the public consciousness for his iconic portrayal of the endearing, often bewildered, and perpetually enthusiastic Lance Corporal Jones in the legendary BBC sitcom Dad's Army. This hugely popular series, which vividly depicted the misadventures of a British Home Guard platoon during World War II, captivated audiences across 9 series and 80 episodes, running from 1968 to 1977. Dunn's character, with his memorable catchphrases like "Don't panic!" and "They don't like it up 'em!", became a beloved figure in British television history, contributing significantly to the show's enduring legacy as a classic of British comedy.

Dunn's journey into the world of acting commenced in the 1930s, but his budding career faced an abrupt and profound interruption with the outbreak of the Second World War. Demonstrating a different kind of courage, he served his country as a trooper in the 4th Queen's Own Hussars. This period of service included a harrowing experience in 1941 when his regiment was overrun during the Battle of Kalamata in Greece. Forced to surrender, Dunn spent the subsequent four years as a prisoner of war (POW) in Austria, a testament to his resilience and survival instinct. This intense personal ordeal undoubtedly shaped his worldview, though he rarely spoke extensively about it, preferring to focus on his craft.

Upon his liberation and the conclusion of the war, Dunn immediately resumed his dedicated pursuit of acting. He honed his skills extensively in the rigorous world of repertory theatre, a demanding environment where actors performed multiple roles in different plays each week, providing an invaluable foundation for his diverse career. His first venture into the nascent medium of television occurred in 1951, where he appeared as 'the man in the pub' in "Surprise Attack," a short public information film commissioned by the Ministry of Health. This marked the beginning of a prolific television career that saw him become a familiar face on British screens. Before securing his career-defining role in Dad's Army in 1968, Dunn collaborated with some of the biggest names in British comedy, making numerous appearances alongside legendary figures such as Tony Hancock in both series of The Tony Hancock Show, and with other celebrated performers including Michael Bentine, Dora Bryan, and Dick Emery. These collaborations underscore his standing as a highly respected comedic talent long before his most famous role.

After the final episode of Dad's Army aired, Clive Dunn skillfully leveraged his established forte for portraying charming, elderly characters. He took on the titular lead role of Charlie Quick in the popular children's slapstick television series Grandad, which ran from 1979 to 1984. This role further endeared him to a new generation of viewers, showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability in children's entertainment, where his gentle humor and physical comedy continued to shine.

Clive Dunn enjoyed a long and remarkable life, eventually settling in the serene Algarve region of Portugal. It was there, at the age of 92, that he passed away peacefully on 6 November 2012, due to complications arising from an operation earlier that week. His passing marked the end of an era for British comedy, but his legacy as a multifaceted entertainer and, most notably, as the unforgettable Lance Corporal Jones, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

What was Clive Dunn's most famous role?

Clive Dunn is most renowned for his iconic portrayal of Lance Corporal Jones in the highly popular BBC sitcom Dad's Army, which aired from 1968 to 1977.

Was Clive Dunn a real soldier?

Yes, Clive Dunn served as a trooper in the 4th Queen's Own Hussars during the Second World War and was held as a prisoner of war (POW) in Austria for four years after being captured in Greece in 1941.

What was Clive Dunn's role after Dad's Army?

After Dad's Army, Clive Dunn continued to play elderly character roles, most notably as Charlie Quick in the children's television series Grandad, which ran from 1979 to 1984.

When and where did Clive Dunn die?

Clive Dunn died on 6 November 2012, in Portugal, where he had retired to the Algarve region. His death was due to complications from an earlier operation.