Jimmy Martin, the actor best known for playing “Auld” Eric in the BBC sitcom Still Game, has died at the age of 93.
Martin appeared in 47 episodes of the beloved show alongside Greg Hemphill and Ford Kiernan between 2002 and 2018.
Unlike most of his co-stars, he was a real pensioner when the series began, though his character was eventually written out in the eighth season.
His management company paid tribute, stating that his performances “brought joy to so many.”
Former Still Game producer Michael Hines described him as a “wonderful actor” and expressed his honor in calling him a friend.
Greg Hemphill also shared heartfelt memories, calling Martin “an amazing fella” who was always a joy to be around, reminiscing about his stories from Byres Road in the 1960s, his time in the Navy, and his unique status as the only actual “auld yin” among the cast.
Born in Glasgow’s Partick, Martin later spent many years in Musselburgh, East Lothian.
He joined the Royal Navy at 17 and later served 16 years in the fire service before pursuing acting.
Recognized for his contributions beyond the screen, Martin was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours for his work with military charities.
His acting career took off in the 1980s with roles in Taggart and Take the High Road, eventually leading to his iconic part in Still Game, a spinoff of Chewin’ the Fat.
As Eric, he became a staple at The Clansman pub, sharing scenes with Jack and Victor (played by Kiernan and Hemphill), Winston (Paul Riley), Tam (Mark Cox), Isa (Jane McCarry), and barman Boaby (Gavin Mitchell).
His character delivered some of the show’s most memorable moments, from luring tight-fisted Tam into a poker night to humorously detailing the effects of aging and learning the hard way about the dangers of tampering with a fire hydrant.
In 2018, Martin’s real-life history was woven into his character’s storyline when Eric became the first customer of a new Craiglang funeral director.
The episode humorously revealed that his claim of a past romance with Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida was a fabrication, discovered only after his funeral.
Beyond Still Game, Martin appeared in Just Another Saturday, Rab C. Nesbitt, and the Netflix comedy Lovesick.
Red Shoe Entertainment, his management company, paid tribute, stating, “His warmth, humour, and unforgettable performances brought joy to so many, and his legacy will live on through the laughter he shared with the world.”
His passing marks the end of an era for fans of Still Game and Scottish comedy, but his contributions to television and his larger-than-life presence will not be forgotten.
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