British Comedy Guide

Donald Hewlett R.I.P.

Donald Hewlett, who was best known for his role in the 1970s BBC sitcom It Ain't Half Hot Mum, has died aged 90.

The actor, who played Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Reynolds in the show, had been ill for some time, his wife told the BBC.

He died at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in west London on Saturday, Therese McMurray-Hewlett said.

Hewlett was also known for his role as master of the house, Lord Meldrum, in 1990s BBC sitcom You Rang M'Lord?

The actor began his on-screen career with a small part in the 1954 comedy film Orders are Orders starring Peter Sellers, Donald Pleasance and Sid James.

He went on to have roles in numerous TV shows including The Saint, The Avengers, Doctor Who and Coronation Street.

But it was his turn as the commanding officer in It Ain't Half Hot Mum which made his name.

The series, set in British India and Burma towards the end of World War II ran on BBC One from 1974-1981.

Hewlett last appeared on TV in ITV sitcom The Upper Hand in 1995.

He is survived by his wife, Therese, and five children including daughter Siobhan, who is also an actress.

He also played the Colonel in the radio comedy Lenin of the Rovers

A shame, I hadn't heard of him for a few years but he pops up regularly in many of my favourite comedies. Including in Carry On Behind, which according to my ever changing whims may be my favourite Carry On film.

Carry on Behind gets a bad press but it is actually one of my favourite Carry On films also.

It was genius to bring Elke Sommer into the film.

He also appeared in Morris Minor's Marvellous Motors

He also stood as a Tory MP.

Donald Hewlett was terrific in It Ain't Half Hot Mum, and had a similar relationship with with Michael Knowles in You Rang, M'Lord?.

For all those who love Dad's Army, you should try It Ain't Half Hot Mum as it has some similarities.

Quote: Tim Azure @ June 13 2011, 1:24 PM BST

He also stood as a Tory MP.

Wow I never knew that.

You learn something new every day
:D

Was sad to hear this. Met him once. Was a nice man. It was about three years ago now, and for 87 years old (as he was at the time) he looked great for his age. RIP

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