Clive Dunn

Early Life

Clive Robert Bertram Dunn was born on January 9, 1920, in Brixton, south London, to actor parents, which likely influenced his future career in the performing arts. He was educated at Sevenoaks School in Kent and later studied at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. Dunn's early career included small film roles in the 1930s, where he appeared alongside Will Hay in films like "Boys Will Be Boys" (1935) and "Good Morning, Boys" (1937). His stage management experience began in 1939 with a touring production called "The Unseen Menace," although it was not a success due to the absence of its star.

Career

Dunn's acting career took off in repertory theatre, and he adopted the stage name Clive Dunn when he joined Equity. He made his television debut in 1951 and became a familiar face on shows like "The Tony Hancock Show" and "Hancock's Half Hour." However, he is best remembered for his role as the elderly Lance Corporal Jones in the beloved BBC sitcom "Dad's Army," which aired from 1968 to 1977. Dunn's portrayal of the doddering old man became a trademark, and he also enjoyed success as a recording artist, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1971 with his hit single "Grandad."

Personal Life

Dunn married fashion model Patricia Kenyon in 1951, but they divorced in 1958. He later married actress Priscilla Pughe-Morgan in 1959, with whom he had two daughters. In his later years, Dunn lived in the Algarve, Portugal, where he pursued painting until his eyesight began to fail. A supporter of the Labour Party, Dunn's political views often clashed with those of his conservative co-star Arthur Lowe. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1975, a recognition of his contributions to the arts. Dunn passed away on November 6, 2012, leaving behind a legacy as a cherished actor and entertainer.