The Good Life actor Richard Briers dies at 79

The star Richard Briers is thought to have passed away 'peacefully'

15:03 18 February 2013

Richard Briers, who was famed for this role in the sitcom The Good Life, has died at the age of 79. His agent confirmed the news of his death, saying that Richard died "peacefully" at home in London on Sunday, 17th February.

The actor, who played Tom Good in the popular 70’s show, was believed to have been suffering with a lung problem, according to reports. Richard had previously said that he had a health problem which was caused by smoking.

The star, who was born on 14th January 1934, enjoyed a successful career. He was recognised as being a stage actor as well as being known for his TV roles.

Richard played the role of Tony Fairfax in the comedy Down to Earth in 1995, and also starred in an episode of Doctor Who. He also performed in many films, including; ‘Run For Your Wife’ in 2012, Love’s Labour’s Lost in 2000, ‘Frankenstein’ in 1994, and ‘Murder, She Said’ in 1961, among many others.

Included in this long list were also some of Shakespeare’s plays which were made into films, such as ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ and ‘Hamlet’.

Richard’s first West End performance is understood to have been for ‘Gilt And Gingerbread’ in 1958.

He took actress Anne Davies as his wife in 1956, and they had two children together.

The BBC’s The Good Life, which was written by Bob Larbey and John Esmonde, ran for three years after it was first broadcast in 1975. Others to have starred in the well-known show included Felicity Kendall, who played Tom’s wife, Barbara, and Penelope Keith.