Remembering the British actor Gorden Kaye
Kaye’s acting career took off in the 1970s with appearances in British television series such as Coronation Street, but it was his portrayal of René, the reluctant French café owner caught up in wartime absurdities, that brought him international fame
Remembering the British actor Gorden Kaye
The British actor Gorden Kaye, best known for his iconic role as René Artois in the long-running BBC sitcom ’Allo ’Allo! was born on April 7, 1941, in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England, Kaye developed an early interest in drama and music. Before fully embracing a career in acting, he worked in a variety of jobs, including time as a hospital radio disc jockey, where his voice and personality began to gain recognition.
Kaye’s acting career took off in the 1970s with appearances in British television series such as Coronation Street, Emmerdale Farm, and It Ain’t Half Hot Mum. However, it was his portrayal of René, the reluctant French café owner caught up in wartime absurdities, that brought him international fame. The show ran from 1982 to 1992 and remains a cult favorite for its slapstick humor and memorable catchphrases.
Despite suffering serious head injuries in a car accident during a storm in 1990, Kaye made a remarkable recovery and continued to work in theatre and television. His later years were more private, but he occasionally reprised his beloved role in stage adaptations of ’Allo ’Allo!.
Gordon Kaye was known to be a private individual. He identified as gay and described himself in his autobiography, René and Me, as a “shy, gay, overweight” youth. He faced challenges related to his sexuality, particularly during a time when homosexuality was less accepted in society. Despite these challenges, he maintained close relationships with his family, who were supportive of him.
Gorden Kaye passed away on January 23, 2017, in a care home in England. He was 75 years old.
Watch a mini documentary on the BBC comedy ‘Allo ‘Allo! from 2008
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