Humanists UK mourns Warren Lakin (1954-2025)

Humanists UK is saddened by the death of our patron Warren Lakin, a comedy producer, writer, and devoted humanist, aged 71.

Lakin was a constant figure in the world of British comedy, working as a producer, promoter, and agent. To humanists, however, he was best known as the partner of the late Linda Smith, the much-loved comedian and writer who served as President of Humanists UK from 2004 until her death in 2006.

Born in 1954, Lakin met Smith in 1983 while they were both working with the Sheffield Popular Theatre. They formed a formidable partnership that spanned 23 years, moving to east London together in 1993. Lakin was a steadfast supporter of Smith’s work and her involvement with Humanists UK, standing by her side during her time as President.

Following Linda’s death in 2006 from ovarian cancer, Lakin ensured her values were honoured by organising a humanist funeral – a decision that, at the time, helped raise the profile of non-religious ceremonies in the UK. He continued to champion her legacy and their shared worldview, compiling and editing an account of her career, I Think the Nurses Are Stealing My Clothes (2006), and writing her biography, Driving Miss Smith: A Memoir of Linda Smith (2007).

Commenting on Warren Lakin’s death, Chief Executive Andrew Copson said:

‘Warren was a vital part of the humanist community, not just as the partner of one of our most cherished presidents, but as a committed humanist in his own right. He supported Linda during her presidency with characteristic warmth and, in the years following her death, remained a loyal friend to Humanists UK. He will be missed by all of us who knew him through his unwavering support of our cause, and our thoughts go out to his partner Debra on his loss.’