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John Junkin was a prominent figure in British television comedy throughout the 1960s and 70s, known for writing scripts for shows such as The Army Game, The World of Beachcomber, Queenie's Castle, and for numerous comedians including Ted Ray, Jim Davidson, Bob Monkhouse, and Mike Yarwood.
As an actor, he gained recognition among TV soap audiences when he appeared in EastEnders (2001) as Ernie, a mysterious stranger who suddenly arrives at the Queen Vic.
Born in Ealing, West London, Junkin was educated locally and initially worked as a teacher in the East End of London, a job he disliked despite his affection for the children. "I loved the kids," he said, "but hated the adults and bores of the Education Authority."
In 1960, he joined Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop in Stratford East and was part of the original cast of Littlewood's Sparrers Can't Sing alongside Barbara Windsor.
During the 1960s and 70s, Junkin was one of the busiest figures on television, both performing and writing. His script for comedian Marty Feldman won the Golden Rose Award in 1972. Alongside Barry Cryer and others, he contributed to many BBC Morecambe and Wise specials. He also co-wrote, with Bill Tidy, The Fosdyke Saga and The Grumbleweeds for radio.
Junkin enjoyed a prolific film career, playing a range of straight and comedic roles. He described himself as easy to cast: "I look like the bloke next door," he said. "I always seem to be wearing one of those sheepskin coats."
Later in his career, Junkin became disillusioned with the entertainment industry, especially television. He had a falling out with an unnamed producer over the writing of a game show format he had created. Legal battles cost him £70,000, and he owed £120,000 in taxes. Nonetheless, he returned to scriptwriting, contributing to The Crazy World of Joe Pasquale (1998) and The Impressionable Jon Culshaw (2004), and was sought after as an after-dinner speaker.
Dave Lee Travis, a close friend and former Radio 1 DJ, said: "If you were in conversation with John, you were always in a state of hilarity. He had no airs and graces.
