11/01/2026
Today we celebrate Melvyn Hayes, a beloved English actor whose remarkable career has spanned over seven decades. Born on 11 January 1935 in London, Hayes has been a familiar face on stage and screen since the 1950s, bringing charm, comic timing and warmth to an extraordinary range of roles.
Hayes first appeared in films such as The Curse of Frankenstein (1957), Summer Holiday (1963) and Wonderful Life (1964), establishing himself as a reliable and recognisable presence in British cinema of the period.
Later, he became a household name on television as Gunner — later Bombardier — “Gloria” Beaumont in the BBC sitcom It Ain’t Half Hot Mum (1974–1981), appearing throughout the series’ 56-episode run and becoming one of its most recognisable characters.
Hayes also appeared in children’s TV as Scooper in Here Come the Double Deckers! (1970–1971), and later lent his voice to animated favourites including Skeleton in SuperTed and roles in The Dreamstone and The Further Adventures of SuperTed.
In more recent years he has continued to enjoy screen work, from a cameo in Not Going Out (2023) to appearances on panel shows like Would I Lie to You? — a testament to his enduring appeal and versatility.
Off-screen, Hayes’s life has been as full as his career. Married three times and father to six children, he and his family also fostered many children over the years, offering stability, care and support to those who needed it most. He has often spoken about the importance of fostering and helping young people find their feet — a commitment that sat quietly alongside his work in theatre and film for years.
Here’s to Melvyn Hayes at 91 — a man who has made generations laugh, charmed audiences in film and television, and shown that longevity in entertainment comes from talent, resilience, and genuine love of the craft. Have a great day! 🎉
