Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Andy Cunningham dead: Bodger and Badger creator and star dies aged 67

Actor is said to have died in Brighton after a lengthy illness

Roisin O'Connor
Wednesday 07 June 2017 11:14 BST
Comments
Andy Cunningham with Bodger
Andy Cunningham with Bodger (BBC)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Bodger and Badger creator and actor Andy Cunningham has died following a "lengthy illness", it has been reported.

Cunningham is said to have passed away on Tuesday 6 June in Brighton.

Cunningham played Simon Bodger in the classic children's TV show Bodger and Badger, which focused on his antics with his animal friend, often involving mashed potato.

He also appeared as Ephant Mon, Jabba the Hut's bodyguard, in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi.

The news was first reported on stand-up comedy website Beyond The Joke.

Comedian Charmian Hughes paid tribute to Cunningham on Facebook, writing: "So sad to hear Andy Cunningham has died. I first met him doing his magic show when I was being a terrible clown at the same event and we were near neighbours in Islington. He was so sweet and kind and full of advice.

"I had quite a pash on him but my dog Arthur weed on him when he came to dinner, so put paid to that. I last saw him at the Brighton fringe about three years ago and he was very mischievous in my audience. Actually, he was my audience. RIP sweet man."

Comedian/actor Andre Vincent worked with him on Bodger and Badger and wrote: "He let me be his baddy in his TV show and I played Sidney Fudgepocket...I loved him and his crazy creations. Big love brother and I will truly miss you. X"

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in