Donald Douglas was born on March 7, 1933, in Falkirk, Scotland. He began his education at Falkirk High School and later attended Edinburgh College of Art before enrolling at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Douglas's early television appearances included playing the young hero in adaptations of Walter Scott's novels, "Redgauntlet" and "Rob Roy," alongside a young Samantha Eggar. He has since appeared in a wide range of roles, departing from his typical Scottish parts in shows like "Taggart" and "Monarch of the Glen" to take on more diverse characters.
Some of his notable roles include idealistic Dr. Lydgate in "Middlemarch," a red-coated captain in "Poldark," and a sinister charmer in "Poirot: The ABC Murders." He has also appeared in continuing dramas like "Kavanagh QC" and "EastEnders."
Douglas made his stage debut at the Glasgow Citizens Theatre and has extensive experience in repertory theatre. His stage roles have included "Absurd Person Singular," directed by its author Alan Ayckbourn at the Whitehall Theatre in London, and "Medea" with Dame Diana Rigg, both in London and on Broadway.
One of his most notable film roles was playing the father of Colin Firth's character in the "Bridget Jones" film series. Today, Douglas resides near Toulouse, France, and is a neighbor of Robin Ellis, who appeared alongside him in "Poldark."
