John Robertson Hare, OBE (17 December 1891 – 25 January 1979) was a distinguished English actor renowned for his remarkable contributions to theatre and television, most notably within the realm of farce. His legacy is particularly cherished for his portrayal of the Archdeacon in the beloved BBC sitcom, All Gas and Gaiters.
Despite his modest height and unassuming looks, Hare carved out a successful career specializing in character roles, often portraying elderly men. One of his early favorites was the role of "Grumpy," a retired lawyer, which he performed across various provincial stages before gaining traction in London's West End.
Following his military service in World War I, Hare experienced a significant breakthrough. He starred alongside Ralph Lynn and Tom Walls in a long-running farce that established him as a prominent figure in the genre. His endearing, meek characters became a staple in the eleven Aldwych farces produced by Walls from 1923 to 1933, during which he also featured in film adaptations.
Even after the Aldwych era, Hare continued to thrive, taking on similar roles in new works, including plays by Ben Travers. He occasionally ventured into different genres, participating in revues alongside Benny Hill and musicals with Frankie Howerd. Hare’s final major role came in the late 1960s, where he reprised his comedic prowess as the Archdeacon of St Ogg's in All Gas and Gaiters, leaving an indelible mark on British comedy.
