Melvyn Hayes is a veteran English actor and voice-over performer best known for his iconic role as the camp female impersonator Gunner (later Bombardier) “Gloria” Beaumont in the BBC sitcom It Ain’t Half Hot Mum, which ran from 1974 to 1981. Born on January 11, 1935, Hayes has enjoyed a prolific career spanning over 75 years, encompassing film, television, stage, and voice acting. In January 2026, he celebrated his 91st birthday with the release of his long-awaited autobiography, It Ain’t Half Late Mum, a memoir decades in the making that chronicles his journey from a child evacuee and magician’s assistant to a mainstay of British entertainment. Beyond his famous television role, Hayes is celebrated for his appearances in the classic Cliff Richard musicals The Young Ones (1961) and Summer Holiday (1963), as well as his distinctive voice work as the villainous “Skeleton” in the children’s cartoon SuperTed.
Early Life and Showbiz Beginnings
Melvyn Hayes was born Melvyn Hyams in Wandsworth, South London, in 1935. As a child of Jewish ancestry, he was evacuated to Dawlish, Devon, during the Second World War to escape the Blitz.
His entry into show business was as unconventional as it was swift; after a failed attempt to become a jockey at age 15, he found work as an assistant to the magician The Great Masoni. Performing at the Comedy Theatre in London, Hayes earned £4 a week primarily for his role in the famous Indian rope trick, where he would “disappear” twice daily for audiences.
Breaking into Cinema and Cliff Richard
Before he became a household name on television, Hayes was a recognizable face in British cinema during the 1950s and 60s. One of his most notable early roles was playing the young Victor Frankenstein in the 1957 Hammer Horror classic The Curse of Frankenstein, starring alongside Peter Cushing.
his collaboration with pop idol Cliff Richard that brought him mainstream success. Hayes appeared as a core member of the “gang” in three of Richard’s major musical films:
The Young Ones (1961): Played the character Jimmy.
Summer Holiday (1963): Played Cyril, famously driving a double-decker bus across Europe.
Wonderful Life (1964): Played Jerry, though production was briefly delayed when Hayes broke his foot during filming.
It Ain’t Half Hot Mum
The role that defined Melvyn Hayes’ career came in 1974 with the premiere of It Ain’t Half Hot Mum, created by Jimmy Perry and David Croft. Hayes portrayed Gunner “Gloria” Beaumont, the star of the Royal Artillery Concert Party stationed in India and Burma during WWII.
Hayes’ portrayal of the effeminate, dress-wearing soldier was a masterclass in camp humor and comedic timing. Despite the show’s modern-day controversy regarding its stereotypical depictions, Hayes’ performance remains a technical highlight for his ability to balance physical comedy with the “straight man” foils of Sergeant Major Williams (Windsor Davies) and Gunner “Lofty” Sugden (Don Estelle).
Voice Acting and Children’s TV
Following the conclusion of his major sitcom run, Hayes transitioned into a highly successful career as a voice artist. His high-pitched, expressive delivery made him a natural fit for animated villains and sidekicks in the 1980s and 90s.
His most famous voice role was Skeleton in SuperTed (1983–1986). He later revealed that the voice for Skeleton was directly inspired by his performance as Gloria Beaumont. Other notable voice credits include:
The Dreamstone
Alfred J. Kwak
Budgie the Little Helicopter
Little Dracula
The 2026 Memoirs: “It Ain’t Half Late Mum”
In January 2026, Melvyn Hayes officially launched his autobiography, It Ain’t Half Late Mum, published by Alliance Publishing Press. The book’s title is a humorous nod to both the sitcom that made him famous and the fact that the project took him over 35 years to complete.
The memoir provides a candid look at his 75 years in the industry, including behind-the-scenes stories from the London Palladium and his time as a “King Rat” within the Grand Order of Water Rats. The launch event in London was attended by several surviving peers from the 1970s sitcom era, marking a significant moment in British cultural nostalgia.
Practical Information and Recent News
For those interested in Melvyn Hayes’ current activities and how to view his historical work in 2026:
Current Status: Melvyn Hayes remains active at age 91, recently receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in March 2025.
Where to Watch: It Ain’t Half Hot Mum and his Cliff Richard films are frequently broadcast on Talking Pictures TV in the UK.
Recent Appearances: He appeared as himself in recent episodes of Would I Lie to You? and Pointless Celebrities.
Public Appearances: As a past “King Rat,” he often attends charity events for the Grand Order of Water Rats, which supports performers in need.
Residence: He currently resides in South London with family, having moved from the Isle of Wight in 2022.
FAQs
Who is Melvyn Hayes?
Melvyn Hayes is a veteran British actor and voice artist, best known for playing Gloria Beaumont in It Ain’t Half Hot Mum.
Is Melvyn Hayes still alive in 2026?
Yes, as of February 2026, Melvyn Hayes is 91 years old and recently released his autobiography.
What is Melvyn Hayes’ most famous role?
His most famous role is Bombardier “Gloria” Beaumont in the BBC sitcom It Ain’t Half Hot Mum.
Did Melvyn Hayes star in films with Cliff Richard?
Yes, he appeared in the “trilogy” of Cliff Richard musicals: The Young Ones, Summer Holiday, and Wonderful Life.
What character did Melvyn Hayes voice in SuperTed?
He provided the voice for the villainous character Skeleton.
What is the name of Melvyn Hayes’ book?
His autobiography, released in 2026, is titled It Ain’t Half Late Mum: My Story.
Was Melvyn Hayes in a Carry On film?
Yes, he appeared in Carry On England (1976), playing a character named Gunner Shorthouse.
Is Melvyn Hayes related to any other actors?
His daughter, Charlie Hayes, followed in his footsteps and is a professional actress.
What is the “Grand Order of Water Rats”?
It is an exclusive British entertainment charity; Melvyn Hayes is a long-time member and served as “King Rat” in 2004.
Was Melvyn Hayes a foster parent?
Yes, Melvyn and his late wife Jayne Male were dedicated foster carers for many years, fostering over 50 children.
Where was Melvyn Hayes born?
He was born in Wandsworth, London, in January 1935.
For More lifestyle Related insights click on :
Lenny Rush: The Ultimate Guide to the BAFTA-Winning Star
James Argent Weight Loss: The Complete Transformation Journey
To read more , Brighton City News