John Inman, 71; British actor known for role in ‘Are You Being Served?’

John Inman, 71, a British actor best known for his role as camp shop assistant Mr. Humphries in the long-running BBC television comedy “Are You Being Served?” died Thursday at St. Mary’s Hospital in London after a lengthy illness, his manager Phil Dale said in a statement.

Inman was one of the most memorable cast members on the department store-based sitcom, and his catchphrase “I’m free!” became part of popular culture in Britain and abroad. The show aired from 1972 to 1985.

Actress Wendy Richard, who played Miss Brahms in “Are You Being Served?” said she had regularly visited Inman, who had been seriously ill with hepatitis A.

She called him “the funniest and most inventive actor” she had ever worked with, BBC News reported.

Inman’s character, Mr. Humphries, had attracted criticism from some gay rights groups who were upset by what they saw as his portrayal of an over-the-top homosexual.

Born Frederick John Inman on June 28, 1935, in Preston, Lancashire, in northwest England, he had his first role at age 13 in Blackpool.

He became a window dresser, moved to London and acted in various stage productions before being cast in “Are You Being Served?”