Mike Berry, ‘Are You Being Served?’ Actor, Dies at 82

A Life of Music and Laughter

With a career that began in the early 1960s, Mike Berry carved a path as both a hit singer and an unforgettable actor. Whether it’s the stage we’re talking about or the screen, Berry’s charm won hearts.

His performances in both music and acting left behind a legacy that’s anything but ordinary. Mike Berry kept his fans enchanted until his final performance.

Early Life

Mike Berry, born Michael Hubert Bourne on September 24, 1942, was the son of an amateur actress and singer. A few months after his birth, Mike and his mother relocated to North Wales, where they lived for two years before moving to Stoke.

There, Berry attended William Patten Primary School and later won a scholarship to Hackney Downs Grocers’ School. Mike Berry left school at the age of 16 to become an apprentice compositor.

Musical Beginnings

Mike Berry’s musical journey began in the late 1950s when he formed a skiffle group called The Rebels. Berry later switched to electric guitars with his band, Kenny Lord and the Statesmen.

This evolution caught the eye of producer Joe Meek, who became their recording manager. Meek signed a group called the Stormers to serve as Berry’s backing band.

Breakthrough Hit

Mike Berry’s breakthrough came in 1961 with the release of Tribute to Buddy Holly. This song was a moving homage to the late rock and roll pioneer.

The song was written by Geoff Goddard and produced by Joe Meek. Despite the song’s success, it was banned by BBC due to the song being “morbid” given Holly’s tragic death.

Chart Success

Mike Berry’s chart success further took flight with the release of Don’t You Think It’s Time in 1963. The song quickly climbed the UK Singles Chart.

It peaked at number 6 and remained on the chart for 12 weeks. This achievement made the singer a prominent figure in the British pop scene.

International Recognition

In the mid-1970s, Mike Berry once again experienced an increase in popularity in the Netherlands and Belgium. His 1975 cover of Don’t Be Cruel reached number 14 on the Dutch Nationale Hitparade.

In the same year, a re-recorded version of his earlier hit “Tribute to Buddy Holly” climbed up to number 2 place in the Netherlands and 3 in Belgium. This renewed interest in Berry’s work hinted at his widespread appeal among the masses.

Return to UK Charts

In 1980, Mike Berry made a notable return to the UK music charts with his rendition of the 1913 ballad “The Sunshine of Your Smile.”

Berry’s version resonated with audiences and climbed the UK Singles Chart. The success of this single marked a significant comeback for Mike Berry.

Transition to Acting

Mike Berry began his acting career in the 1970s, appearing in numerous television commercials.

In 1979, he gained recognition for his role as Mr. Peters, the father of two children, in the TV series Worzel Gummidge. This marked a significant turning point in his transition from music to acting.

‘Are You Being Served?’ Role

In 1981, Mike Berry joined the BBC sitcom Are You Being Served? as Mr. Bert Spooner. He stepped in after Trevor Banister’s departure as Mr. Lucas.

Berry’s character was known for his youthful charm and comedic timing. He remained with the show until it ended in 1985, with Berry’s role contributing largely to the series’ popularity.

Character of Mr. Spooner

Mr. Bert Spooner was introduced in 1981 as the junior salesman at Grace Brothers. His character was characterized by a cheeky demeanor.

Spooner was often seen engaging in witty banter with colleagues, particularly Mrs. Slocombe and Miss Brahms. Even though the character was sarcastic most of the time, he was found to be helpful when needed.

Final Episodes

​In the 1985 finale of Are You Being Served?, titled “The Pop Star,” Mr. Bert Spooner, portrayed by Mike Berry, is demoted due to tardiness but gains attention for his singing talent.

The staff prepares a musical performance, but during the show, Spooner’s voice fails, leading to a comedic mishap with a backup recording playing at double speed.

Other Acting Work

Mike Berry further expanded his acting career by appearing in a series of Blue Riband commercials. These advertisements included Berry singing catchy jingles.

These ads made him more popular and left a lasting impression on audiences. In 1999, Berry took on the role of Mac MacDonald in the film Julie and the Cadillacs.

Touring with Rock ‘n’ Roll Legends

In 2017 and 2019, Mike Berry joined the UK tour of The Solid Gold Rock’n’Roll Show. The 2017 lineup featured Berry alongside Marty Wilde, Eden Kane, Mark Wynter, and The Wildcats.

The 2019 tour celebrated Marty Wilde’s 80th birthday and included Charlie Gracie, Nancy Ann Lee, Mike Berry, and The Wildcats. These performances showcased Berry’s talent and passion for rock and roll.

Final Performance

Mike Berry’s final performance took place on February 23, 2025. The performance was held at The Half Moon in Putney, London.

This matinee show, which featured Mike Berry and The Outlaws, was a sold-out event. The concert was part of a series of performances at the iconic venue, which is known for hosting legendary events and acts.

Passing

Mike Berry passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, at the age of 82. He was surrounded by family at his home in Kingston upon Thames, England, during his last moments.

His manager, Peter Stockton, confirmed his death, stating, “It is with the deepest regret that I have to inform everyone that the legendary Mike Berry died peacefully this morning, his family members by his bedside.”

Berry has left a lasting impact and has made contributions to various impactful causes, joining the many beloved figures the entertainment world mourned in 2024.

Legacy

Mike Berry was a man of many talents. In his later years, Berry continued to delight the audience with his talent.

Berry’s legacy is characterized by his versatility and dedication to his craft. Berry’s death was sudden and quite shocking.

Similarly, the entertainment industry was recently shaken by the unexpected loss of Liam Payne, leaving fans mourning.

If you have fond memories of Mike Berry, share them with us in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.

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