Person Biography:
Born in England, the Australian character actor, director, and producer emigrated to Australia in 1950 at the age of approximately 25. Prior to his acting career, he worked as a publicity officer before quitting his job in 1968 to pursue his passion for the stage.
As a professional actor, he gained recognition for his villainous roles, which he attributed to his bald head. Throughout his career, he appeared in various television series, mini-series, telemovies, and films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Early Life:
Conscripted into Her Majesty's Royal Navy at the age of 18 in 1943, he served on a minesweeper during World War II. His ship was involved in the D-Day operation, and he witnessed the action from just off the Arromanches beach.
Emigration to Australia:
In October 1950, he arrived in Melbourne, Australia, under the £10 assisted passage emigration scheme. He later took Australian Citizenship in December 1975.
Theatre Career:
By 1953, he was taking on leading parts with the Little Theatre Company in Melbourne, producing and directing difficult plays such as Chekhov and Ibsen. In 1963, he moved to Brisbane and joined the Queensland Arts Theatre, continuing his acting career in his spare time.
Arts Centre Campaign:
In the 1960s, he campaigned in Brisbane for a new permanent arts centre and was involved in the plans that resulted in the Arts Complex being built.
Notable Roles:
In 1970, he played the role of Samuel Marsden, the priest who brought merino sheep to Australia, in the play "It's a Rum Do." The play was chosen for a Royal Command Performance, and he was presented to the Queen. After this, his acting career took off.
Television Roles:
In the 1970s, he gained fame for his recurring roles in soap operas, including slimy Town Clerk Eddie Buchanan in "Number 96" and Dr. Vincent Snape in "The Young Doctors." He also played devious town councillor Alfred Muldoon in "A Country Practice" from 1982-1992.
Film Roles:
He appeared in the film "Street Fighter" and had a role in the horror film "Bloodmoon" in 1990, playing the character Mr. Gordian.
