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Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Red Dwarf cast now almost 40 years on from show's first episode as icon dies
Following the death of cast member Charles Augins, we look at what happened to the originals from Red Dwarf after one of the UK's best loved comedy series came to an end Fans of Red Dwarf have been left saddened by the death of Charles Augins, popular villain Queeg from the show's second series. Fans online have remembered the actor, who worked alongside Chris Barrie and Craig Charles on the long-running BBC programme following the news. It has been almost four decades since the sci-fi comedy first appeared on TV screens. The much-loved show aired on BBC Two between 1988 and 1999 before a reboot between 2009 and 2020. Red Dwarf centred around Scouse technician Dave Lister who wakes up following three million years in suspended animation to discover he is the last living human. He finds that he is on the mining spacecraft, joined by a hologram of his detested former bunkmate Arnold Rimmer and 'Cat,' a life form evolved from Lister's pregnant cat. The show gained a huge cult following and is remembered as one of the UK's best loved comedy series. The show went on to make household names of its cast, but where are they now? Here's what happened to the main cast, and their lives after the legendary programme. Craig Charles - Dave Lister Craig began his career as a performance poet, appearing on arts programme Riverside on BBC Two and Channel 4's Black on Black. However, it was his performance as Dave Lister in Red Dwarf that made Craig a household name. The actor appeared in all 12 series of the show. Craig joined the cast of Coronation Street in 2005 as taxi driver Lloyd Mullaney. He has also had acting roles in The Bill, Eastenders, Holby City, Doctors and Dream Team. Many will remember Craig for providing the English voice-over commentary on Takeshi's Castle for Challenge between 2002 and 2004. The popular game show had more than 100 contestants face a series of unusual challenges to reach the Showdown in hopes of winning a huge cash prize. Craig also presented Robot Wars on BBC Two between 1998 and 2003, then Channel 5 between 2003 and 2004. More recently, Craig has presented his weekday afternoon show on BBC Radio 6 Music since October 2021. He also regularly performs DJ sets as Craig Charles Funk and Soul. Chris Barrie - Arnold J. Rimmer Chris started his career with appearances on the BBC Radio 4 sketch show Son of Cliché and other various voice impersonation roles in the 1980s, including the original series of Spitting Image. He joined the cast of Red Dwarf in 1988 and played Arnold J. Rimmer in all 12 series. The actor is also known for playing Gordon Brittas in BBC sitcom The Brittas Empire from 1991 to 1997. He reprised the role in 2014 in the music video for Little Mix's version of 'Word Up'. He played Lara Croft's butler Hillary in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider in 2001 and Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life in 2003. Chris has presented Britain's Greatest Machines with Chris Barrie since 2009 on the National Geographic channel. He has also hosted the television series Chris Barrie's Massive Engines and Chris Barrie's Massive Machines on the Discovery Channel, which was later shown on Channel 5. From 2015 until 2018, he was the voice over of Channel 5's Car Crash TV and Idiot TV from 2018 until 2019. Danny John-Jules - Cat Danny has appeared in many films and television shows, but he is fondly remembered as Cat in all 12 series of Red Dwarf. Danny started his showbiz career as Baldy's Lookout in the 1979 film Scum starring a young Ray Winstone. He also lent his voice to two characters in the 1986 film Labyrinth, starring David Bowie. His other film credits include Barfly Jack in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, and Asad in Blade II. He has had appearances on television shows The Bill, Casualty and Doctors, as well as children's series M.I High and Maid Marian. Danny was also Milton Wordsworth in 74 episodes of BBC children's show The Story Makers. Following the end of Red Dwarf in 2020, Danny has appeared on Shakespeare and Hathaway: private Investigators and the 2021 Alan McGee biopic Creation Stories. He was also an original cast member in Death in Paradise, playing policeman Dwayne Myers until 2018. Robert Llewellyn - Kryten Robert became involved in Red Dwarf after his one-man comedy, about a robot who becomes more human, was performed at Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It was watched by the producer of the show, Paul Jackson, who invited Robert to audition for the role of Kryten. He joined the cast of Red Dwarf in 1989 at the beginning of its third series. Like his co-stars, Robert has had various television roles outside of Red Dwarf. He appeared as the Prime Minster in an episode of the CBBC series M.I. High in 2007 and was the narrator of the Channel 5 series The Boss is Coming to Dinner in 2010. He was the original presenter of Scrapheap Challenge on Channel 4 alongside Dick Strawbridge as a judge, and hosted it for 10 series. He also presented the 2015 BBC Two show The World's Busiest Railway with Dan Snow and Anita Rani. He was a contestant with Craig Charles on BBC One's Antiques Road Trip. Alongside his acting career, the star has written a total of fourteen books. He is also an electric car and sustainable technology advocate, regularly discussing the subject on his YouTube series Fully Charged and at conventions across the globe.
Metro
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Love Actually and Eastenders star Jo Bacon dies aged 72
Joanna Bacon has died at the age of 72, with tributes flooding in paying homage to the actress. The star was diagnosed with cancer in January and died in June, with her funeral taking place yesterday on July 15. The actor was best known for playing the mother of Natalie (played by Martine McCutcheon) who appears in the 2003 film when the Prime Minister (played by Hugh Grant) knocks on her door in Wandsworth, in an attempt to win Natalie back. Bacon was also best known for her appearances in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill, Pie in the Sky, Little Britain, A Touch of Frost and New Tricks. She also notably appeared in the series Breeders, where she played Jackie, the mother of Paul (played by Martin Freeman). More Trending At the funeral on Tuesday, celebrant Jo Moore said: 'Jo's talent as an actor was a gift that she shared with the world. On stage and on screen, she brought us joy, laughter, and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she reached. 'She was a woman of many talents and facets, and I would like to share with you a description of Jo, given by Gill, one of her lifelong friends: 'Jo's life was a wonderful, elaborate, kaleidoscope with different sections for each of her passions and only Jo was at the centre and could see and enjoy the whole kaleidoscope. 'In many ways Jo was a contradiction – a flamboyant extrovert, a superb wit, a natural communicator and yet, at the same time, an introspective loner. 'We all thought we knew her so well but, in reality, we each only knew and loved one aspect of her.' Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: Paranormal TV investigator Dan Rivera dies suddenly while touring with haunted Annabelle doll MORE: Musician and Spinal Tap star David Kaff dies aged 79 MORE: Pokemon voice actor James Carter Cathcart dies aged 71
Irish Daily Mirror
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Love Actually star Jo Bacon dies as friends remember her 'brilliant life'
Tributes have been paid after the death of a 'brilliant' actor - who appeared in one of the most iconic scenes in Love Actually. Jo Bacon played Natalie's mum in the 2003 film when the Prime Minister played by Hugh Grant knocked on the door of their south London house looking for Martine McCutcheon's character. Bacon who was a hugely popular figure across the world of TV, theatre, film and ballet also made appearances in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill, Pie in the Sky, Little Britain, A Touch of Frost and New Tricks. And she won rave reviews for her performances in Breeders where she played Jackie the mum of Paul played by Martin Freeman. Freeman was one of many actors who paid their last respects to Bacon, who has died at the age of 72, at her funeral yesterday, Mirror UK reports. The celebrant Jo Moore said: "Jo's talent as an actor was a gift that she shared with the world. On stage and on screen, she brought us joy, laughter, and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she reached. "She was a woman of many talents and facets, and I would like to share with you a description of Jo, given by Gill, one of her lifelong friends: 'Jo's life was a wonderful, elaborate, kaleidoscope with different sections for each of her passions and only Jo was at the centre and could see and enjoy the whole kaleidoscope. In many ways Jo was a contradiction - a flamboyant extrovert, a superb wit, a natural communicator and yet, at the same time, an introspective loner. "We all thought we knew her so well but, in reality, we each only knew and loved one aspect of her.'' Service programme for funeral of much-loved Jo Bacon After her cancer diagnosis in January, Jo herself said 'I have had a brilliant life. I have been so lucky to do the things I have done and to have met the wonderful people I have met. I have no regrets.' Bacon's close friend Patrick Roberts spoke passionately as he recalled Jo's love of life, love of travel and love of animals. There was applause, laughter and tears as the congregation listened to a string of anecdotes about her life and career. Jo in Breeders (Image: ©Avalon ©Sky UK Ltd) Another friend Barry Bowen said: "The thing I remember and love most about her I suspected in those early local days and it proved true in spades as the years went by…. her unfailing loyalty to her friends. If Jo had wanted to be anything other than the humble person we all knew, she was so well equipped to be a name dropper. Sharing stages and studios with the likes of Redgrave, O'Toole, Mirren, Bates, Rickman, Grant, Firth and Freeman were a silent compliment to her." Jo Bacon playing Natalie's mum in Love Actually The congregation heard how Bacon started her career in the 1960s and 1970s at amateur dramatic groups in Hatfield Heath and Harlow, Essex. And as she enjoyed increasing success in her career Bacon remained a steadfast supporter of local groups near her home in Hatfield Heath regularly attending many performances of the Heath Players, Harlow Ballet and at Harlow Playhouse Her coffin left the venue at GreenAcres Epping to the sounds of the Rolling Stones Honky Tonk Woman. A huge animal lover, particularly dogs, she asked for donations to be made to a local charity called Mutts in Distress. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Love Actually and Eastenders actor Jo Bacon dies aged 72
Jo Bacon played Natalie's mum in the 2003 film Love Actually and has died at the age of 72. Heartfelt tributes have poured in following the passing of a 'brilliant' actress who featured in one of Love Actually's most memorable scenes. Jo Bacon portrayed Natalie's mum in the beloved 2003 romantic comedy, appearing in the unforgettable moment when Hugh Grant's Prime Minister arrives at their south London home searching for Martine McCutcheon's character. The 72 year old performer, who was cherished throughout the television, theatre, film and ballet communities, also graced screens in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill, Pie in the Sky, Little Britain, A Touch of Frost and New Tricks. She earned critical acclaim for her role as Jackie in Breeders, playing the mother of Martin Freeman's character Paul. Freeman joined numerous fellow actors in paying final respects to Bacon at her funeral service yesterday, reports the Mirror. Celebrant Jo Moore reflected: "Jo's talent as an actor was a gift that she shared with the world. On stage and on screen, she brought us joy, laughter, and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she reached. "She was a woman of many talents and facets, and I would like to share with you a description of Jo, given by Gill, one of her lifelong friends: 'Jo's life was a wonderful, elaborate, kaleidoscope with different sections for each of her passions and only Jo was at the centre and could see and enjoy the whole kaleidoscope. In many ways Jo was a contradiction - a flamboyant extrovert, a superb wit, a natural communicator and yet, at the same time, an introspective loner. "We all thought we knew her so well but, in reality, we each only knew and loved one aspect of her.'" Following her cancer diagnosis in January, Jo herself reflected: "I have had a brilliant life. I have been so lucky to do the things I have done and to have met the wonderful people I have met. I have no regrets." Patrick Roberts, a close friend of Bacon's, spoke with fervour as he remembered her zest for life, her passion for travel, and her love for animals. The congregation experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, from applause to laughter and tears, as they listened to various heartfelt stories about her life and career. Barry Bowen, another friend, fondly recalled: "The thing I remember and love most about her I suspected in those early local days and it proved true in spades as the years went by.... her unfailing loyalty to her friends. If Jo had wanted to be anything other than the humble person we all knew, she was so well equipped to be a name dropper. Sharing stages and studios with the likes of Redgrave, O'Toole, Mirren, Bates, Rickman, Grant, Firth and Freeman were a silent compliment to her." The attendees were reminded of how Bacon began her acting journey in the 1960s and 1970s with amateur dramatic societies in Hatfield Heath and Harlow, Essex. Despite her growing success, Bacon remained a dedicated supporter of local arts, frequently attending performances by the Heath Players, Harlow Ballet, and at the Harlow Playhouse, close to her home in Hatfield Heath. Her coffin was carried out of the GreenAcres Epping venue to the tune of the Rolling Stones' Honky Tonk Women. A passionate animal enthusiast, especially dogs, she requested that donations be made to a local charity named Mutts in Distress.
Daily Mirror
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Jo Bacon dead: Love Actually and EastEnders star dies as tributes flood in
Tributes have been paid after the death of a 'brilliant' actor - who appeared in one of the most iconic scenes in Love Actually. Jo Bacon played Natalie's mum in the 2003 film when the Prime Minister played by Hugh Grant knocked on the door of their south London house looking for Martine McCutcheon's character. Bacon who was a hugely popular figure across the world of TV, theatre, film and ballet also made appearances in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill, Pie in the Sky, Little Britain, A Touch of Frost and New Tricks. And she won rave reviews for her performances in Breeders where she played Jackie the mum of Paul played by Martin Freeman. Freeman was one of many actors who paid their last respects to Bacon, who has died at the age of 72, at her funeral yesterday. The celebrant Jo Moore said: "Jo's talent as an actor was a gift that she shared with the world. On stage and on screen, she brought us joy, laughter, and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she reached. "She was a woman of many talents and facets, and I would like to share with you a description of Jo, given by Gill, one of her lifelong friends: 'Jo's life was a wonderful, elaborate, kaleidoscope with different sections for each of her passions and only Jo was at the centre and could see and enjoy the whole kaleidoscope. In many ways Jo was a contradiction - a flamboyant extrovert, a superb wit, a natural communicator and yet, at the same time, an introspective loner. "We all thought we knew her so well but, in reality, we each only knew and loved one aspect of her.'' After her cancer diagnosis in January, Jo herself said 'I have had a brilliant life. I have been so lucky to do the things I have done and to have met the wonderful people I have met. I have no regrets.' Bacon's close friend Patrick Roberts spoke passionately as he recalled Jo's love of life, love of travel and love of animals. There was applause, laughter and tears as the congregation listened to a string of anecdotes about her life and career. Another friend Barry Bowen said: "The thing I remember and love most about her I suspected in those early local days and it proved true in spades as the years went by…. her unfailing loyalty to her friends. If Jo had wanted to be anything other than the humble person we all knew, she was so well equipped to be a name dropper. Sharing stages and studios with the likes of Redgrave, O'Toole, Mirren, Bates, Rickman, Grant, Firth and Freeman were a silent compliment to her." The congregation heard how Bacon started her career in the 1960s and 1970s at amateur dramatic groups in Hatfield Heath and Harlow, Essex. And as she enjoyed increasing success in her career Bacon remained a steadfast supporter of local groups near her home in Hatfield Heath regularly attending many performances of the Heath Players, Harlow Ballet and at Harlow Playhouse Her coffin left the venue at GreenAcres Epping to the sounds of the Rolling Stones Honky Tonk Woman. A huge animal lover, particularly dogs, she asked for donations to be made to a local charity called Mutts in Distress.
