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Gavin & Stacey legend Larry Lamb, 77, says role as Mick Shipman in the sitcom is likely to be his last ever TV job as he steps back from acting

BBG News

Larry Lamb has shared that it’s probable that Gavin & Stacey will be his final television role, as he plans to take a step away from acting.

The venerable actor, now 77 years old, expresses joy at wrapping up his acting journey by portraying Mick Shipman one final time in the sitcom‘s Christmas episode, which is being called “The End.

currently, he is primarily working on a fresh novel that delves into the world of show business. However, he mentions that he might accept minor acting roles on stage just to maintain his visibility, emphasizing that he is content with allowing others to take on the more significant parts.

Apart from playing the beloved character Mick in Gavin & Stacey, Larry is also well-known for his portrayal of the villainous Archie Mitchell in EastEnders. However, it’s his role in the classic sitcom that brought him the most happiness, and he acknowledges that the holiday special, which was viewed by 19 million viewers, was an ideal conclusion to his television acting career.

Addressing TopMob, he expressed: “You immerse yourself so deeply into these characters that they feel like your favorites during that period. They dominate your life’s focus. However, wrapping up my 70s portraying a character like Mick, who is adored by countless fans worldwide, requires giving the writers their due recognition… At this stage of my career, Mick is undeniably the character closest to my heart.

Over the course of six decades, Larry’s professional endeavors have been extensive; however, it wasn’t until his fifties that he achieved widespread recognition on British television, largely due to two pivotal roles that significantly shaped his career.

He went on to say, ‘My professional journey has been exceptionally blessed; there’s a lot I’ve accomplished that I take great pride in, which might not be widely recognized.’

‘Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of performing at the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, as well as 12 West End shows. I’ve also graced the stages of all major fringe theatres in London and even Broadway. I consider myself quite fortunate, and now I’m content to let others take on the leading roles.’

Larry considers achieving fame through his portrayal of Mick and Archie as a just reward for all the tough work he’s put in over the years, much of which was done both onstage and in front of cameras.

For quite some time, people were unaware of how much effort I put into theater work; they typically thought I was always appearing on television, but that wasn’t the case.

Approximately half my time will be dedicated to working on television, while the remaining half will be spent performing in the theater.

If you’ve spent your life in the entertainment industry, and then find yourself becoming well-known primarily as a character, instead of just being recognized for who you are as a person…

If you’ve been in showbiz for ages, but suddenly people recognize you almost exclusively for your onscreen persona rather than knowing you personally…

For me, being recognized is more gratifying than remaining anonymous. Especially if one is recognized as a beloved figure, it seems like an ideal way to conclude one’s professional journey.

In May, Larry joined the Gavin & Stacey cast, which included writers James Corden and Ruth Jones, at the BAFTA TV Awards.

At the event, they were anticipating winning the Award for Unforgettable Incident, but ultimately, it was awarded to Chris McCausland, the victor of Strictly Come Dancing instead.

In case the cast had won that night, it would have been Larry, the character played by Ruth (Nessa Jenkins), who would have delivered the acceptance speech onstage.

He told me that Ruth phoned him, and she mentioned that both James and he wanted me to deliver a speech on their behalf. I composed this speech myself.

‘Indeed, we didn’t take home the victory, but luck wasn’t on our side that day. However, the final sentiment in that speech really touched us all – ‘Gavin and Stacey, created by Ruth and James, they crafted a family that everyone can identify with and be a part of for eternity.’ And that’s what truly matters. We are all now part of this extended family, and it’s a powerful, genuine connection built on real love.’

Unlike some veteran TV actors, Larry’s decision to retire has nothing to do with his health. 

Without a doubt, this London-native celebrity maintains a healthy lifestyle free from vices, as he firmly believes that it sets a strong base for living a long and fruitful existence.

Larry advises that if he were to impart some sage advice, it would be to keep yourself physically active starting at a young age.

He advised: “Begin early and prioritize your health, remember not to underestimate it. Stay active. I’ve been alcohol-free for many years, have never touched cigarettes, and generally, I strive to make conscious food choices, even though sometimes I overindulge.

Remember, your body is something special and unique – you only get one! Take care of it like you would a precious gift.

He stated that he works out every day in various ways – swimming, cycling, or using an exercise bike when outside isn’t possible. He doesn’t merely spend 10 minutes on it casually; instead, he dedicates an hour to intense exercise, determined to stay fit.

“I’d like to enroll for the upcoming session, and I’m content with the current phase. As you age, responsibilities pile up, but the key is to begin early and persist. It’s crucial to maintain your fitness and hold onto it.

Larry and his television host son, George Lamb, are collaborating on a fresh initiative with British Rail. This partnership led them to embark on a train journey together.

The duo were the initial users to test National Rail’s innovative Guided Q&A Questions to Connect platform, designed to facilitate a stronger connection between travelers during their trips.

For Larry, the partnership was just right since his longtime affection for trains, which started during his childhood years, made it an ideal match.

He mentioned that his affection for trains and rail travel dates back many years. As a young child, no cars were part of his family’s lifestyle, so he either traveled by bus, subway, or train. The train would often take him on vacations to the beach or other destinations.

‘I was reminded of bustling, colorful train stations when I smelled that distinctive aroma. With memories of steam trains, travelers carrying luggage and pushing strollers, I’ve often talked about such places. National Rail approached me about a potential project related to this very topic, specifically collaborating with George on it.’

In Larry’s collaboration with National Rail, recent findings suggest that approximately one-third of people are unaware of the place where their fathers originated, while an equal number admit to knowing less about how their parents met. It appears that many British citizens know more about celebrities than they do about their own parents.

He said: ‘According to research, Brits know more about celebrities than they do their own parents. 

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I recently found myself in an intriguing situation where I discovered that I was unaware of my parents’ favorite foods or the story behind how they met. This revelation struck me as extraordinary! However, thanks to these 36 insightful questions that George and I exchanged, we managed to delve deep into our family histories, uncovering hidden gems that brought us closer together.

It’s truly regrettable that some individuals find themselves in such difficult circumstances. On the other hand, I consider myself incredibly fortunate for the strong bond I share with my children. Our connection thrives on mutual love, and we often communicate openly about every aspect of our lives.

  • Make time to connect – On the train you can. Visit www.nationalrail.co.uk/questionstoconnect 

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2025-07-13 11:19

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