Spitting Image star and Dead Ringers creator Bill Dare has died following an accident overseas, his agent has confirmed.
A graduate of the University of Manchester, where he studied English and Philosophy, Dare was one of British comedy’s most influential but often unsung figures. His work spanned decades, shaping the landscape of radio and television satire.
Dare died over the weekend following an accident overseas, although no further details are known at this point.
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In a statement, the JFL Agency said: “Bill was a truly legendary producer and writer, and his comedy instincts were second to none. He made Dead Ringers into a national institution for the BBC, due to mark its 25th anniversary this year.
“But Bill’s creativity was unbounded – sketch shows, sitcoms, entertainment formats, novels, stage shows – he created them all and brought great pleasure to an untold number of viewers and listeners. He was also a great champion of talent, both writing and performing, and he will be remembered for working with the best of his generation at the same time as creating opportunities for the next.”
Dare, who was the son of fellow writer Peter Jones, played a key role in Spitting Image, producing the iconic puppet show through the 1990s. His time at Manchester proved formative, sparking the sharp wit and satirical edge that defined his career.
Dare championed new talent throughout his career, producing shows like Week Ending and The Mary Whitehouse Experience while also devising formats that gave early breaks to emerging writers and performers. His most recent project, The Island, was airing its first series at the time of his passing.
BBC Studios Creative Director Richard Morris called him a “legendary figure” who shaped Radio 4’s comedy landscape, while the JFL Agency described his comedy instincts as “second to none.”
Dare is survived by his wife, Lucy, and daughter, Rebecca.
