Tributes and condolences flooded in for ex-EastEnders star Ian Lavender as he drew his last breath at 77. The British television legend peacefully rested after dealing with a series of health setbacks over the years. Ian had a remarkable acting career and contributed to philanthropy by raising awareness. Please continue reading to learn more about the Lost Star!
EastEnders: A Quick Glimpse Into Lavender’s Acting Odyssey!
Lavender rose to fame by playing Private Pike as part of the troupe in Dad’s Army. The actor sustained fame after becoming popular on EastEnders, for which he starred in over 200 episodes. However, it was not smooth sailing for Ian! The Birmingham-born used to earn only £9 a week during a six-month stint at Canterbury Rep before his big break. He had no idea that his role in Dad’s Army would skyrocket him to stardom!
On the flip side, Ian’s fantastic performance on the hit comedy show pigeonholed him into television roles. Moreover, it shut the doors of the film world. But the EastEnders alum had no qualms with this regard. In a 2014 interview with the Guardian, he expressed immense pride in the sitcom’s success. The show had a massive 18 million viewership and long run. He chuckled, “I’d have been a fool to say ‘bugger off.’ I’d be a fool to have regrets.”
In addition, Lavender spent a decade of his career in supporting roles in shows like EastEnders, Doctors, and multiple theatre productions. Ian’s other famous role was Pauline’s gay best friend – Derek Harkinson, on EastEnders from 2001 until 2005. However, as fate would have it, the seasoned actor was thrust into a battle against several fatal health scares.
Navigating Through Fatal Health
In 1993, Ian was diagnosed with bladder cancer, but it was treated successfully. Since then, he has made it his mission to spread symptom awareness. After eight years, the former EastEnders star suffered a heart attack. Ian explained, “In the middle of reading an EastEnders script. I just knew there was something very wrong.”
Furthermore, “I don’t remember being in pain except that my chest and arms felt heavy,” he added. The famed actor was stunned and recalled his mother’s similar ordeal three decades earlier.
Cut to 2017, Lavender fell ill with sepsis while filming for a reality show on Channel 5. The journeyed actor recovered, but the sepsis battle put a full stop to his time on the big screen. The BBC executives couldn’t secure insurance for his appearances anymore. Before vanishing, Ian returned to EastEnders for a Christmas special in 2016, but his planned 2017 return was axed.
The actor only poured love in an interview with The Radio Times. “I’ve got nothing but admiration for all the soaps, for getting on to the screen for three and four episodes weekly.” Dad’s army reciprocated the love in their condolence post. It read, “His wonderful performance as Private Frank Pike will live on for decades to come.” Continued, “He leaves behind a legacy of laughter enjoyed by millions. We will dedicate this year’s tour to his memory.”
You might now know, but Ian was the final original cast member of Dad’s Army! Share your favourite Lavender role. Here’s hoping he’s resting peacefully. Till then, keep reading TV Season and Spoilers for more EastEnders celebs, news, and updates!