Among the fallen is the legendary Ronnie Barker, who played the sharp-witted Norman Stanley Fletcher. Barker, who became the heart of the show, passed away in 2005 at the age of 76 from heart failure. Another tragic loss is Richard Beckinsale, whose portrayal of the naive Lenny Godber resonated with audiences. He died suddenly in 1979 at just 31, leaving a legacy that continues to captivate.