Actor and Director Ron Bain, Known for ‘Naked Video,’ Dies at 79

Tributes have been pouring in for actor and director Ron Bain, who passed away at the age of 79.

Bain’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he became a staple of Scottish television comedy and drama.

Born in Grangemouth, Bain trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (RSAMD).

He made his television debut in 1971 alongside Roddy McMillan in the BBC Scotland drama “The View from Daniel Pike.” His career as a character actor included notable appearances in “Play of the Month” (1975), “The XYY Men,” “Taggart,” and “The Tales of Para Handy.”

Bain’s association with the late actor Rikki Fulton began with their acclaimed stage performance in Molière’s play “The Miser” in 1971. This collaboration continued as Bain both acted with and directed Fulton in the beloved TV sketch show “Scotch and Wry,” and its spin-offs featuring the character Reverend IM Jolly.

In the 1980s, Bain became a familiar face through his work with BBC Scotland’s Comedy Unit.

He starred in a series of popular comedies, including “A Kick of the 80s,” “Laugh? I Nearly Paid My Licence Fee,” “City Lights,” “Naked Radio,” and its successor “Naked Video.” The latter launched the career of actor Gregor Fisher, with whom Bain later worked on “Rab C Nesbitt” and “Snoddy.”

Bain transitioned behind the camera, taking on roles as producer and director for various comedy and drama programs such as “The Bill,” “River City,” and “The Karen Dunbar Show.” Despite his television success, Bain never abandoned theatre, continuing to perform onstage and mentor aspiring actors.

Luke McCullough, head of corporate affairs at BBC Scotland, expressed his condolences: “We’re saddened to hear about the death of Ron Bain. He was an important part of much-loved BBC Scotland comedies including ‘Naked Video,’ ‘Laugh? I Nearly Paid My Licence Fee,’ and ‘Rab C Nesbitt.’ Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and all who worked with him across his career.”