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PG Tips chimp dies aged 37 at Twycross Zoo

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By John Glenday, Reporter

July 12, 2013 | 1 min read

A chimpanzee who rose to national fame as the star of a series of PG Tips adverts broadcast throughout the 1970s and 1980s has passed away following a short illness at his home in Twycross Zoo, aged 37.

Known to millions for his role impersonating 007 as a suave, diminutive, tea quaffer Louis remained a favourite amongst staff and visitors.

The use of chimpanzee actors in advertising stretches back to the earliest days of television in the 1950s when the likes of Peter Sellers and Bob Monkhouse would provide voiceovers for their on-screen antics.

Typically used for comedic effect they would be employed to satirise popular themes, most famously James Bond, but the practice drew to an abrupt halt in 2002 following a campaign by animal rights activists.

Since then PG Tips have employed a hand puppet, known simply as 'Monkey', to maintain the tradition.

Louis is survived through his long term companion, and fellow small screen star, Choppers.

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