Richard Briers dies in London at the age of 79

British actor Richard Briers, best known for his role in TV’s The Good Life, has died at the age of 79, his agent has announced.

Richard Briers, who was also an accomplished stage actor, had been battling a serious lung condition for several years.

He died “peacefully” at his London home on Sunday, his agent added.

Richard Briers recently blamed years of smoking for his emphysema.

“It’s totally my fault,” he said.

“So, I get very breathless, which is a pain in the backside. Trying to get upstairs… oh God, it’s ridiculous. Of course, when you’re bloody nearly 80 it’s depressing, because you’ve had it anyway.”

His agent, Christopher Farrar, said: “Richard was a wonderful man, a consummate professional and an absolute joy to work alongside.

“Following his recent discussion of his battle with emphysema, I know he was incredibly touched by the strength of support expressed by friends and the public.

“He has a unique and special place in the hearts of so many. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and deepest sympathy go to his family at this sad time.”

In 1970s BBC sitcom The Good Life, Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal played a married suburban couple who try a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Richard Briers also starred in shows including Marriage Lines, Ever Decreasing Circles, Monarch Of The Glen plus a role in Doctor Who and Torchwood.

He appeared in many films, most recently in British comedy film Cockneys versus Zombies, plus a cameo role in Run For Your Wife, based on Ray Cooney’s 1980s stage farce.

RichardBriers narrated the 1970s children’s cartoon series Roobarb And Custard and also provided the voice for the character of Fiver in the animated feature Watership Down (1978).