Stanley Baxter Dies at 99, Leaving Behind a Golden Legacy of Laughter

End of an Era: Scottish Comedy Giant Stanley Baxter Dead at 99

Stanley Baxter, the celebrated Scottish actor, comedian, impressionist, and television personality, has died peacefully at the age of 99. His passing was announced by family and close friends, who confirmed he died on 11 December 2025 at Denville Hall, a care home for people from the entertainment industry in North London, where he had lived since late 2023.

A Career Spanning Nearly a Century

Born in Glasgow on 24 May 1926, Baxter’s performing career began as a child on the BBC’s Children’s Hour. He later served with the Combined Services Entertainment unit during his national service, where his comic talents were further honed.

Baxter became one of Britain’s most distinctive comedy figures from the 1950s onward. He was best known for his groundbreaking television sketch shows, including The Stanley Baxter Show and The Stanley Baxter Picture Show, which drew millions of viewers at their peak. His routines were famous for their elaborate production values, mastery of accents, and inventive impersonations — including bold send-ups of figures like the Pope and Queen Elizabeth II, often delivered in drag or in multiple roles per sketch. One of his most iconic sketches was Parliamo Glasgow, in which Baxter played with Glaswegian dialect to hilarious effect, translating phrases like “sanoffy cold day” for “It’s an awfully cold day.” 

Stage, Film, Radio and Pantomime

Beyond television, Baxter appeared in films such as Geordie, Very Important Person, and The Fast Lady, and enjoyed a long association with British theatre and pantomime. He also returned to radio later in life with series like The Stanley Baxter Playhouse.

Accolades and Legacy

Throughout his long career, Baxter received numerous honours, including BAFTA awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Comedy Awards, and BAFTA Scotland’s Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television Award. His highly ambitious shows influenced generations of performers and remain a high point of British comedy history. 

Personal Life

Baxter was married to actress Moira Robertson for 46 years until her death in 1997. In 2020, in his authorised biography The Real Stanley Baxter, he publicly discussed his sexuality, revealing that he was gay — a truth he had kept private for much of his life. He is survived by his younger sister and her family. In keeping with his wishes, Baxter’s funeral will be a small, private ceremony without public memorials.