Don Warrington

Don, alongside his brother, was reared in Warrington Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, where his early life was marked by a profound influence that would shape his future endeavors. It was during this formative period that he was inspired to pursue a career in acting, sparked by his witnessing of the iconic film On the Waterfront, released in 1954. This nascent passion led him to enroll in stage school, where he honed his craft and eventually landed the role of Assistant Stage Manager at a prominent Newcastle theatre. His subsequent attendance at a reputable drama school further refined his skills, laying the groundwork for a successful acting career. However, a unique challenge arose when he discovered that another individual, also named Donald Williams, was already an established actor. In order to differentiate himself, Don adopted the surname of the road where he grew up, a decision that would ultimately prove fortuitous. In 1973, he secured a part in the touring production of The Banana Box, which boasted an impressive cast including Paul Jones, Leonard Rossiter, and Rosemary Leach. Although the production initially starred these esteemed actors, Frances de la Tour later joined the cast, replacing Leach. This touring production was subsequently adapted for television and underwent a title change, emerging as the beloved series Rising Damp in 1974.