Sir Antony Jay, the broadcaster and writer who contributed to comedy hits such as Yes Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, has died at the age of 86.
The writer and producer died “peacefully” on Sunday evening surrounded by his wife and family.
Along with co-author Jonathon Lynn he is best known for writing the BBC political comedies starring Paul Eddington, Sir Nigel Hawthorne and Derek Fowlds.
He began his career in the BBC’s current affairs department and was a founding member of the Tonight team, later becoming editor of the programme in 1982.
Sir Antony was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) for personal services to the Royal Family after scripting the documentaries Royal Family and Elizabeth R: A Year In The Life Of A Queen.
In 1988 he was created a Knight Bachelor.
Sir Antony also authored several management books and founded Video Arts, a management and sales training film company, alongside John Cleese and two other colleagues in 1972.
Additional reporting by Press Association
