Gorden Kaye dead: ‘Allo ‘Allo! star previously cheated death in horrific car accident
GORDEN KAYE suffered serious head injuries when a piece of wood smashed through the windscreen of his car during a storm in 1990, according to reports at the time.
Gorden Kaye plays René Artois in BBC sitcom 'Allo 'Allo!
The actor, who was best known for his role of Rene Artois in ‘Allo ‘Allo!, was believed to have been knocked unconscious for days following the horrific incident.
He was set to star in a theatre production of the much-loved BBC sitcom as part of a three-month tour of Australia when it happened.
However, due to his condition, he was forced to stay at home while Australian actor Mac Gillies filled in for him.
Gorden was thought to have been kept artificially unconscious after he underwent five hours of surgery following the accident at London’s Charing Cross Hospital.
Gorden Kaye cheated death after horrific car accident in 1990
The actor was best known for his role of Rene Artois in 'Allo 'Allo!
The star was then put on a ventilator to give his brain a chance to breathe as he began to slowly recover.
Not long after the incident, a spokesperson for the theatre production said: “He is beginning to regain consciousness, which is a wonderful sign, and he is moving spontaneously.
“That means if he has got an itch he is able to scratch it. His nervous system is fine and he is aware of his surroundings.”
They added that he “would be furious” if they had cancelled the tour on his account.
The star suffered serious head injuries when a piece of wood smashed through his car windscreen
Gorden's former agent confirmed that he passed away this morning at the age of 75
Gordon’s former agent confirmed that he had passed away this morning, 17 years after the ordeal, at a care home.
Following the news of his death, Shane Allen - who is controller of BBC comedy commissioning - commented: “Gorden Kaye was a terrific comic actor whose signature tole, Rene Artois, earned his place in the comedy hall of fame.
“He was instrumental in making ‘Allo ‘Allo! such a long-running and well-loved series. His work lives on and thoughts are with friends and loved ones at this sad time.”