“Mike Berry died peacefully at home aged 82 after a long and successful career in showbusiness (Picture: BBC) Mike Berry, legendary 60s artist and actor, has died at the age of 82. His manager and friend Peter Stockton confirmed the news to Metro, describing him as a ‘brilliant’ and ‘humourous’ man. The legendary artist –”, — write: metro.co.uk
Mike Berry died peacefully at home aged 82 after a long and successful career in showbusiness (Picture: BBC) Mike Berry, legendary 60s artist and actor, has died at the age of 82.
His manager and friend Peter Stockton confirmed the news to Metro, describing him as a ‘brilliant’ and ‘humourous’ man.
The legendary artist – known for hits including 1960 song Tribute to Buddy Holly and his rendition of 1913 classic The Sunshine of Your Smile – began his career in the 1960s.
He stayed on the road for the rest of his life up until a week before his death, when he performed a sold out show at the Half Moon Putney.
Berry was the last surviving regular cast member of hit sitcom Are You Being Served? which ran from 1972 to 1985, in which he played Mr Spooner.
The star joined the show in 1981 – replacing previous cast member Trevor Bannister who played Mr Lucas – and remained until the show ended.
Born in Northampton, Berry formed his own skiffle group in school called The Rebels, and went on to release three hits in the 1960s including Don’t You Think It’s Time.
Mike was still performing up until a week before his death (Picture: Michael Putland/Getty Images)
He also recorded Drift Away in 1970, a classic that would go on to be covered by many artists, most notably soul singer Dobie Gray, who made it a surprise international hit in 1973.
In 2016, Berry auditioned for the fifth series of The Voice, singing a rendition of Buddy Holly’s True Love Ways, but proved unsuccessful.
While none of the judges wanted him in their teams, fans rallied to support Berry in the comments section of the YouTube video.
‘This was a Master Class in singing. No gimmicks, no runs, no shouting, no belting,’ said @Jvargas0026.
Berry (left) starred in Are You Being Served with the likes of John Inman (right) (Picture: Publicity still) ‘This is an absolutely flawless performance from Mike – he deserves so much better,’ said @jimcannon1162.
Announcing the news of his death, Peter also wrote on Facebook: ‘It is with the deepest regret that I have to inform everyone that the legendary Mike Berry died peacefully this morning, his family members by his bedside.
‘As we all know, Mike was an amazing, highly talented performer whose career spanned 64 years – his first Hit being the haunting Tribute to Buddy Holly in 1961.
‘His last show on February 23rd at The Half Moon was a sell out, and was testimony to his superb talent.
Berry started his music career in the 60s and crossed over into the acting world years later
‘He was also a gifted actor, highlighted by his performances in the iconic comedy Are You Being Served.
‘A tragic loss to our world of music, and I hope that he is now having a laugh with many of his old pals up in Heaven.’
Editor at SongLink David Stark also posted a moving Facebook tribute.
‘I knew Mike for almost 50 years since 1976, one of the nicest guys in the biz always with a laugh and a smile.
‘His excellent sold out show at the Half Moon Putney was only a few weeks ago, he was on terrific form and was due to do another one in the summer.
‘Very, very sad news indeed, RIP Mike you will be missed…’
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