David Daker died on April 30, 2026, at the age of 90.
- June 22, 2026
AceShowbiz - David Daker died on April 30, 2026, at the age of 90. The British actor, widely recognized for his role as Harry Crawford in the ITV series Boon, passed away leaving a legacy spanning decades of television and stage work.
David Daker was survived by his second wife Hilary and their daughter Rebecca. He had previously been married to Stella Newton, with whom he had two children, Tim and Pippa; sadly, Pippa passed away in 1997 from multiple sclerosis. Daker was born in Bilston, West Midlands, as the youngest of five children to Olive Cutler and Elijah Daker, a shoe factory worker. His television career began with a breakout role as PC Owen Culshaw in the BBC drama Z Cars, appearing in 84 episodes over a decade starting in 1967. He also had notable stints on Coronation Street, playing two different characters—Basil Griffin from 1968 to 1969 and Gordon Lewis from 1981 to 1985. Beyond these, he appeared in popular British shows such as Only Fools and Horses and Doctor Who, showcasing his versatility across genres.
The ITV drama Boon, produced by Cinedigm and directed by Derek Presley, featured Daker as Harry Crawford, the loyal best friend of Ken Boon. The series, which aired from 1986 to 1992, blended action, crime, and drama, with Daker's character often involved in various business dealings alongside the lead. His portrayal of Harry remains one of his most memorable contributions to television drama.
David Daker’s passing marks the loss of a distinctive figure in British television history, remembered for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to a wide range of roles. His work on shows like Boon and Coronation Street connected with audiences through his nuanced performances, leaving a lasting impression on fans and colleagues alike.