08/03/2007

Comedy star John Inman dies

Comedy actor John Inman, the star of 1970s sitcom 'Are You Being Served?’ has died in hospital at the age of 71.

Inman had been ill for some time, suffering from a Hepatitis A infection. The infection, which is usually caused by eating contaminated food, causes an inflammation of the liver.

The illness forced Inman to cancel the opening of a pantomime in London in December 2004. He had hoped to return to the production of 'Dick Whittington', but he never worked again.

Inman became a star playing Mr Humphries in the BBC sitcom 'Are You Being Served?' between 1972 and 1985. His catchphrase - 'I'm free!' - made him a household name.

In recent years he regularly appeared in pantomime, usually appearing as a dame.

Inman's manager said that he was "known and loved throughout the world".

His long-term partner, Ron Lynch, is reported to be "devastated" at his death.

(KMcA/SP)


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