Many, many years ago I was dating a young American lass who was studying in London. She had never heard of Dave Allen so, for a laugh, I took her to see him live. Admittedly he was slightly more risqué in his live performance and occasionally used the 'F' word but he was a complete showman and really knew how to play an audience. My date thought him hilarious, even when he cracked a few jokes at her expense (she had a particularly loud laugh). Anyway, when Allen reappeared for his encore he had with him a bottle of champagne and two glasses. He poured both glasses, then walked down into the audience and handed one to my date. She was overjoyed and squealed with delight. I was just thrilled to be so close to the great man. What a performance, what an evening and what a gentleman! His like will probably not be seen again.

Although Dave routinely had fun with different religions he was never bigoted, vicious, cruel, used foul language or had an iota of hate in him. He was hugely intelligent, thought provoking and could tell a story that had you from the first word to last. As a kid he was my favourite comic on tv - it's only when they're gone do you realise how special some folk are.

We are sorely in need of people like Dave Allan today!

The fact that even the Catholics loved him just goes to show his total genius

No one ever came nearer to Dave Allen as a comedian. His wit ,way of storytelling , timing and brilliant sketches is unparalleled. He used to keep audiences in his palm. I have watched him from his begging to end. The most intelligent comedian ever.

"And he sees thar adam is happy" followed by a pause. Perfect comedic timing.

Sadly missed,  My goodness we need a Dave Allen these days. I am living in a dystopian nightmare devoid of true comedy.

My dad was a devout Christian and he would howl with laughter at dave's monologues 😊

Maybe just my age, but I find this stuff far funnier than anything around today. So glad that these comedies are still around to cheer me up.

I used to watch him as a kid in the 70s, and his stuff is still relevant today.

The man was singularly talented. He was story teller, joke teller, stand up comedian, sit down comedian, satirist, sketch writer & performer and actor. And he enjoyed nothing more than hosting large gatherings at the family home and making sure both adults and children had a wonderful time.

Dave Allen was the greatest comedian who ever lived. May he rest in peace. forever missed and remembered X

I loved him as a kid and still love him...RIP Dave Allan . Legend

I really don't understand why anyone could be offended. The world needs laughter, he is - still - a genius.

Dave Allen was my favourite comedian during the 1970s.

I am old enough to have enjoyed Dave Allen first time round.  As a youngster I was becoming very doubtful about religion but was not articulate enough to discuss it in my social environment.  Suddenly this guy appeared on TV and became a witty advocate for atheism.   I took a lot of comfort from this.   Dave Allen, you were a great guy.

At a Catholic Sunday school a group of students were asked what they wanted to be when they grow up. The first kid said I want to be a firefighter, another said I want to be a priest, and this girl said, "I want to be a prostitute". The nun looks at the child in utter horror and says "You want to be a what?" The girl responds "a prostitute". The nun sighs relief and says "Good, for a second I thought you said you wanted to be a protestant."

I used to love watching this with my Dad probably 55 yrs ago, my Dad laughed nonstop, so did I but probably did not realize half of what I was laughing for. Miss you Dad ❤

He was a friend of my father during the 1970s and the fun they had with one other with their mutual friend was legendary. RIP to all three.

As a small boy, I didn't really get the humour, but was awed by the sophistication and adult nature of his show. I reached for understanding.
As an adult, today, I'm glad to say I'm not disappointed  - bravo and thanks Dave Allen.