Laurie Webb dead: Doctor Who and Hancock's Half Hour star dies weeks before birthday
A Doctor Who star has died. Laurie Webb, who was one of the oldest living stars to appear in the show died weeks before his 102 birthday. Webb died on Sunday, with his family sharing the sad news on social media
Actor and writer Toby Hadoke shared the news of Laurie's death after being asked to do so by his family. On Twitter/X the star said: "I’ve been asked by the family to pass on the sad news that one of the Doctor Who’s longest lived contributors – Laurie Webb, aka Mr Ollis in The Three Doctors – passed away peacefully on Sunday: 5 weeks short of his 102nd birthday.
“What a life, what a man. Delightful company too.”
- Stacey Solomon reveals why she didn't legally marry Joe Swash at Pickle Cottage
- Scott Mills' BBC sacking update as bosses 'unaware' boy was under 16
Webb starred in the Third Doctor story, The Three Doctors in 1972/3. He took on the role of Mr Ollis, the game warden of Minsbridge Wildlife Sanctuary.
He later appeared in 2023's Tales of the TARDIS. His appearance came in archive footage from the serial.
Following his death, fans shared messages of condolence on the social media platform. One user wrote: "Sad to hear of the passing of lovely Laurie Webb at the outstanding age of 101. We had a great (and very moving) time filming with him on Looking for Lennie - just incredibly good-natured as a person. RIP."
Another fan said: "I will watch #theThreeDoctors again tonight in his memory ! #LaurieWebb #RIP #DoctorWho." And a third wrote: "My condolences to his family & friends. I only know Mr Webb from his role Mr Ollis in The Three Doctors.
"That last scene when Mr Ollis arrives home & his wife accosts him about where he's been. His reaction is so funny. Fine actor that makes me smile & laugh everytime I watch it."
A fourth called the star a "legend," writing: "A fantastic performer in a marvellous role in an especially special story. I send my condolences to you and all his family and loved ones, Toby. Thank you, Laurie for sharing your gifts. What a legend."
The Tony Hancock Appreciation Society also said: "Very sad to hear from the family that our great friend and Hancock's Half Hour regular Laurie Webb has passed away at the age of 101. He had a wonderful career in the theatre, filling in between stage commitments with TV work, including Dr Who. A lovely man, so generous to fans."
Laurie had become the oldest living member of the Doctor Who cast in December 2024 following Arnold Yarrow's death aged 104. The title is now thought to be held by Peter Cellier, who appeared in the 1982 story Time-flight. He is currently 97.
Webb began his career on TV in 1958. He appeared on Sid Caesar Invites You. He later went on to star in Hancock’s Half Hour in 1959.
Other credits to his name included King of the River (1966), The Troubleshooters (1970), Paul Temple (1971) and Doomwatch (1971).
TikTok
Snapchat
Instagram
Twitter
Facebook
Threads