Don't Panic! Dad's Army is returning!
Cold Feet actor Robert Bathurst is to star as Sergeant Wilson in Gold’s remake of Dad’s Army.
Robert, who plays David in Cold Feet, will be lining up alongside Pirate of the Caribbean actor Kevin McNally as Captain Mainwaring and the legendary Bernard Cribbins as Private Godfrey.
Dad’s Army: The Lost Episodes will see Gold remake three episodes of the hit comedy which were first broadcast 50 years ago before they disappeared from the archives. The shows will use the original scripts by Jimmy Perry and David Croft.
Talking about the role originally played by John Le Mesurier, Robert said: “I’ve played soldiers before, but find I handle guns with all the bloodcurdling authority of Sergeant Wilson. I’m looking forward to playing him. I hope we can honour Croft and Perry’s lost episodes. It’s a celebration of their writing, with understudies.”
Bernard Cribbins added: “What a way to start the New Year. Back in khaki again – just like I was in 1947.”
Kevin McNally revealed he was looking forward to the “daunting” prospect of taking on the role of Captain Mainwaring, originally played by Arthur Lowe.
He said: “Now look here men, HQ tells me that three episodes of Dad’s Army have gone missing. And it has fallen to us to step in and replace them.
“I have been asked to double for Captain Mainwaring and daunting as that may be, I accept the responsibility and look forward to leading the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard in three last pushes against the Jerries. I hope you’ll join us and enjoy the ride.”
The episodes are from the original second series and titled The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Walker, A Stripe for Frazer and Under Fire.
Dad’s Army: The Lost Episodes will be shown on Gold later this year. Cold Feet, starring Robert, is currently on ITV.
