TV star (81) and music legend (83) remembered as fans reflect on their lasting legacy
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Two familiar figures from the entertainment world have sadly passed away.
One, known for a long career in television and stage, has died at 81, leaving behind a legacy that touched many. The other, a well-loved voice from the world of music, has passed away at 83, remembered fondly by fans who grew up with their songs.
Both individuals leave behind careers that brought joy and lasting memories to audiences across the globe.
Born in Virginia, USA, Charles Augins was a true renaissance man of the stage and screen.
His career was a tapestry woven with acting, dancing, and choreography, and he left an indelible mark on every project he touched.
While Red Dwarf fans will instantly recall his hilarious and memorable turn as Queeg 500 in the show’s second season, Augins’ influence on the series didn’t stop there.
He was also the creative force behind the iconic 'Tongue Tied' dance sequence, performed with infectious energy by Craig Charles, Chris Barrie, and Danny John-Jules—a moment that fans still celebrate to this day.
Augins’ passing on Saturday, 19 July, has prompted an outpouring of grief and gratitude from friends, colleagues, and fans alike.
Courtney Baker Oliver, a close friend and mentee, shared a moving tribute on social media, describing Augins as 'friend, inspiration, and surrogate father all in one.'
Oliver’s words paint a picture of a man who was not only a consummate professional but also a generous soul who lifted those around him, always encouraging others to 'dream bigger and say yes to every opportunity.'
The Red Dwarf fan community has also quickly honoured Augins’ memory.
The show’s official fan club and fans posted heartfelt messages on social media.
Many recalled the laughter and joy Augins brought to their screens, with one fan writing, 'I don’t think I have ever laughed so hard as when I saw that episode the first time! Jape of the century indeed. RIP legend.'
Another simply said, 'Heartbroken. Queeg is my favourite Red Dwarf episode ever.'
But Augins’ talents weren’t confined to Red Dwarf. His acting credits include appearances in beloved series and films such as Blake’s 7, Labyrinth, and The Tall Guy.
Yet, it was perhaps as a choreographer that he truly shone. In 1991, he was awarded the prestigious Laurence Olivier Theatre Award for Best Choreography for his work on Five Guys Named Moe—a testament to his creative genius and the respect he commanded in the theatre world.
For those who grew up with Red Dwarf or discovered it later in life, Augins’ work is woven into the fabric of our pop culture memories.
His performances were always delivered with a twinkle in the eye and a spring in the step, and his choreography brought joy to countless audiences.
He was a mentor, a friend, and a trailblazer, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Meanwhile, Helen Cornelius’ passing was confirmed on July 18th via a heartfelt post on her official fan page.
The message, penned by her friend Susan, was filled with both sorrow and gratitude: ‘I’ve heard from Christy, and Helen did pass yesterday (18 July) morning. I plan on keeping this page open as you all have posted such lovely photos of yourselves with Helen.’
Susan went on to share her own cherished memories, from sharing pizza and football in Helen’s living room to the time her dog, Harry Potter, made an unexpected stage appearance during rehearsal.
These stories, brimming with laughter and affection, paint a picture of a woman whose warmth extended far beyond the stage.
Fans from all walks of life quickly flooded the page with their own tributes.
One recalled seeing Helen perform with her legendary duet partner, Jim Ed Brown, at Opryland in 1978.
Another remembered Helen’s hilarious stories on the TV show Nashville Now, especially her good-humoured take on a wardrobe malfunction.
‘She might have been little, but she sure had a big heart and gave us all big beautiful memories!’ wrote one admirer, echoing the sentiment of so many who were touched by Helen’s kindness and generosity.
Helen Cornelius’s journey in music began at an astonishingly young age.
Born in 1941, she made her debut at just five years old, quickly winning talent contests and captivating audiences with her natural talent.
Alongside her sisters, she formed a country trio, with their devoted father shuttling them from gig to gig.
But it was Helen’s gift for songwriting that first caught the attention of the industry, opening doors to a professional career that would span decades.
Of course, for many, Helen will always be remembered for her iconic duets with Jim Ed Brown.
Their chemistry was undeniable, and together they created some of the most memorable country hits of the 1970s and ‘80s.
Their song ‘I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You’ soared to the top of the charts and earned them the coveted CMA Award for Vocal Duo of the Year in 1977.
The pair’s harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and genuine camaraderie made them favourites not just in the United States, but with country music fans here in Australia as well.
Helen’s talents weren’t confined to the recording studio. In 1991, she opened her own dinner theatre in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, performing nightly for five years and bringing her music directly to fans in an intimate setting.
Even as she ran her theatre, Helen continued to tour with country legends like Conway Twitty and The Statler Brothers, delighting audiences well into the 2000s.
But perhaps what set Helen apart most was her big heart.
Stories from friends and fans alike speak of her kindness, her willingness to mentor young artists, and her ability to make everyone feel special—whether they were a fellow musician, a fan at a meet-and-greet, or a child on Safety Patrol at Mark Twain Elementary.
One fan even shared how Helen kept letters from her early years in the business, a testament to her appreciation for the connections she made along the way.
Rest in peace to two cherished figures from the entertainment world.
Their talents brought joy to countless fans, and their legacies will be remembered for years to come.
May their contributions continue to inspire future generations.
Read more: Shocking end for legendary skydiver: What really happened to Felix Baumgartner?
One, known for a long career in television and stage, has died at 81, leaving behind a legacy that touched many. The other, a well-loved voice from the world of music, has passed away at 83, remembered fondly by fans who grew up with their songs.
Both individuals leave behind careers that brought joy and lasting memories to audiences across the globe.
Born in Virginia, USA, Charles Augins was a true renaissance man of the stage and screen.
His career was a tapestry woven with acting, dancing, and choreography, and he left an indelible mark on every project he touched.
While Red Dwarf fans will instantly recall his hilarious and memorable turn as Queeg 500 in the show’s second season, Augins’ influence on the series didn’t stop there.
Entertainment world mourns Charles Augins, known for Red Dwarf role and award-winning theatre work. Credit: Facebook
He was also the creative force behind the iconic 'Tongue Tied' dance sequence, performed with infectious energy by Craig Charles, Chris Barrie, and Danny John-Jules—a moment that fans still celebrate to this day.
Augins’ passing on Saturday, 19 July, has prompted an outpouring of grief and gratitude from friends, colleagues, and fans alike.
Courtney Baker Oliver, a close friend and mentee, shared a moving tribute on social media, describing Augins as 'friend, inspiration, and surrogate father all in one.'
Oliver’s words paint a picture of a man who was not only a consummate professional but also a generous soul who lifted those around him, always encouraging others to 'dream bigger and say yes to every opportunity.'
The Red Dwarf fan community has also quickly honoured Augins’ memory.
The show’s official fan club and fans posted heartfelt messages on social media.
Many recalled the laughter and joy Augins brought to their screens, with one fan writing, 'I don’t think I have ever laughed so hard as when I saw that episode the first time! Jape of the century indeed. RIP legend.'
Another simply said, 'Heartbroken. Queeg is my favourite Red Dwarf episode ever.'
But Augins’ talents weren’t confined to Red Dwarf. His acting credits include appearances in beloved series and films such as Blake’s 7, Labyrinth, and The Tall Guy.
Yet, it was perhaps as a choreographer that he truly shone. In 1991, he was awarded the prestigious Laurence Olivier Theatre Award for Best Choreography for his work on Five Guys Named Moe—a testament to his creative genius and the respect he commanded in the theatre world.
For those who grew up with Red Dwarf or discovered it later in life, Augins’ work is woven into the fabric of our pop culture memories.
His performances were always delivered with a twinkle in the eye and a spring in the step, and his choreography brought joy to countless audiences.
He was a mentor, a friend, and a trailblazer, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Meanwhile, Helen Cornelius’ passing was confirmed on July 18th via a heartfelt post on her official fan page.
The message, penned by her friend Susan, was filled with both sorrow and gratitude: ‘I’ve heard from Christy, and Helen did pass yesterday (18 July) morning. I plan on keeping this page open as you all have posted such lovely photos of yourselves with Helen.’
Susan went on to share her own cherished memories, from sharing pizza and football in Helen’s living room to the time her dog, Harry Potter, made an unexpected stage appearance during rehearsal.
Country music legend Helen Cornelius dies at 83, remembered for hit duets and stage performances. Credit: Facebook
These stories, brimming with laughter and affection, paint a picture of a woman whose warmth extended far beyond the stage.
Fans from all walks of life quickly flooded the page with their own tributes.
One recalled seeing Helen perform with her legendary duet partner, Jim Ed Brown, at Opryland in 1978.
Another remembered Helen’s hilarious stories on the TV show Nashville Now, especially her good-humoured take on a wardrobe malfunction.
‘She might have been little, but she sure had a big heart and gave us all big beautiful memories!’ wrote one admirer, echoing the sentiment of so many who were touched by Helen’s kindness and generosity.
Helen Cornelius’s journey in music began at an astonishingly young age.
Born in 1941, she made her debut at just five years old, quickly winning talent contests and captivating audiences with her natural talent.
Alongside her sisters, she formed a country trio, with their devoted father shuttling them from gig to gig.
But it was Helen’s gift for songwriting that first caught the attention of the industry, opening doors to a professional career that would span decades.
Of course, for many, Helen will always be remembered for her iconic duets with Jim Ed Brown.
Their chemistry was undeniable, and together they created some of the most memorable country hits of the 1970s and ‘80s.
Their song ‘I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You’ soared to the top of the charts and earned them the coveted CMA Award for Vocal Duo of the Year in 1977.
The pair’s harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and genuine camaraderie made them favourites not just in the United States, but with country music fans here in Australia as well.
Helen’s talents weren’t confined to the recording studio. In 1991, she opened her own dinner theatre in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, performing nightly for five years and bringing her music directly to fans in an intimate setting.
Even as she ran her theatre, Helen continued to tour with country legends like Conway Twitty and The Statler Brothers, delighting audiences well into the 2000s.
But perhaps what set Helen apart most was her big heart.
Stories from friends and fans alike speak of her kindness, her willingness to mentor young artists, and her ability to make everyone feel special—whether they were a fellow musician, a fan at a meet-and-greet, or a child on Safety Patrol at Mark Twain Elementary.
One fan even shared how Helen kept letters from her early years in the business, a testament to her appreciation for the connections she made along the way.
Their talents brought joy to countless fans, and their legacies will be remembered for years to come.
May their contributions continue to inspire future generations.
Read more: Shocking end for legendary skydiver: What really happened to Felix Baumgartner?
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