BBC News Online: Entertainment

Both feet in the grave

After 10 years of haranguing anyone who dared cross him, the perpetually incredulous OAP will die following a hit-and-run accident and bring to a close the popular show.

The sixth and last series will be one of the highlights of the BBC's autumn schedule and will feature Victor's death in the very last episode.

Actor Richard Wilson, 64, who plays Victor said: "I feel sad, of course, but it's the right time. To keep doing it would have got dull."

'Funny and touching'

Speaking in The Sun he continued: "It's strange reading about the demise of someone you've known so well and so long - and of course this means I'll get no more money from Victor.

"But I suppose I'm quite glad because this takes all the worry away about whether to do any more.

"The last episode is very funny and very touching and I would be upset if people weren't upset by it.

"The filming was quite jolly but the ending is very unexpected and really makes you think."

The show was watched by up to 18 million viewers at its height and also stars Annette Crosbie who plays Victor's wife Margaret.

A BBC spokesman said: "The way Victor Meldrew dies sounds shocking but in the hands of a genius like writer David Renwick you know there will be humour in the story. And it will be a fitting end to a phenomenally success show."