TV star John Inman died almost twenty years ago to the date, March 8, after suffering from hepatitis A and undergoing tests due to liver complications. Even two decades later he's still remembered as a beloved TV character after his iconic role on Are You Being Served? He famously played salesman Mr Humphries in the comedy series from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s and starred alongside Wendy Richard, Molly Sugden, Frank Thornton and Trevor Bannister.

His success had seen him amass a huge fortune as he left a large estate, totalling around £2.8million, which he left to his partner of 35 years, Ron Lynch. They'd had a civil partnership ceremony in 2005, which saved Ron from a £1million inheritance tax bill at the time. He also placedc £5,000 to the Entertainment Artistes Benevolent Fund.

He built up his career after working as a trainee window dresser at Fox's Departmental Store in Blackpool when he finished school, before moving to the Austin Reed store on London's Regent Street at 18. He then began making costumes for nearby theatres to top-up his wages. His previous manager had said that he always knew John wouldn't stay with them long because he constantly spoke of his ambition.

It was when he was 21-years-old that he left to focus on finding fame. He then appeared in plays, pantomimes and musical theatre before landing his breakthrough after TV producer David Croft wrote him a letter telling him "one day I'm going to cast you in a role you can really get your teeth into." He then wrote an episode for the BBC's Comedy Playhouse and cast him as Mr Humphries.

Now, years on, people have still remembered him for his incredible work, with one user writing on Facebook: "In early 2026, his work is honored as a brilliant milestone in the history of social documentation for comedy. His successful recording career and impeccable timing on stage have made him a household favorite across the globe.

"He remains a radiant icon, a performer whose work continues to "shine with absolute charm" through the archival lens of classic British variety." While another said they were remembering him still on today's date, 19 years after he passed. He was branded "one of the best" as fans also said he was "laugh out loud funny".

John sadly died from hepatitis A, an inflammation of the liver, in St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, on March 8 2007.