John Robertson Hare, a celebrated English actor of great repute, entered this world on December 17, 1891, and subsequently departed it on January 25, 1979. Throughout his illustrious career, he garnered widespread recognition for his unforgettable portrayals in the beloved BBC sitcom, All Gas and Gaiters, wherein he skillfully embodied the character of the Archdeacon, an iconic role that has left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of modern audiences.
Despite his understated demeanor and diminutive physical stature, Hare managed to forge a prosperous theatrical career, frequently being cast in character roles, often portraying older men from the very inception of his acting profession.
His most cherished part, which he initially performed in provincial theaters before achieving widespread acclaim in the West End, was that of "Grumpy", a retired lawyer, a role he toured extensively before the outbreak of World War I.
Following his distinguished military service in the army during World War I, Leslie Hare achieved a groundbreaking milestone in his career by landing a starring role in a long-running farce alongside the renowned comedic talents of Ralph Lynn and Tom Walls.
Throughout the eleven Aldwych farces presented by Walls between 1923 and 1933, Hare's meek and beleaguered character became a recurring presence, endearing himself to audiences with his relatable portrayal of a hapless everyman.
In addition to his work on stage, Hare also appeared in film adaptations of most of the Aldwych farces, further cementing his status as a beloved comedic actor of the era.
After the Aldwych series came to a close, Hare continued to be cast in similar roles in new plays by prominent playwrights such as Ben Travers, as well as many other notable writers, solidifying his reputation as a master of comedic timing and character development.
The multifaceted career of Hare, whose artistic endeavors extended far beyond the realm of farce, as he would occasionally step away from the genre to collaborate with other esteemed performers, such as Benny Hill, in revue productions, and with the renowned Frankie Howerd, in a musical endeavor.
In the latter years of his career, Hare's final notable role emerged on the small screen, as he brought to life the character of the Archdeacon of St Ogg's in the BBC's comedy series, All Gas and Gaiters, a production that aired in the late 1960s and served as a testament to his enduring talent.
John Robertson Hare, a luminary of unparalleled distinction, embarked upon a career of extraordinary longevity, effortlessly transcending the boundaries of time and leaving an indelible imprint upon the realm of entertainment, his profound influence reverberating across the vast expanse of the decades, a testament to his unwavering dedication and unbridled passion for the art of performance.
