Tall, rugged, and red-haired, a character actor with a heavily lined face that seemed to tell a story of a hard life. His journey in show business began with his father, Nosmo King (real name Vernon Watson),as half of a music hall double act. Later, he honed his skills as a monologuist and impersonator in radio, showcasing his versatility.
During World War II, Watson served as a petty officer in the Royal Navy, a remarkable feat for someone who would later become a comedian. His early career saw him take on unlikely roles, but he eventually found his footing as a stalwart character actor in films of the 1960s and 1970s.
Watson's talents were often utilized as by-the-book police inspectors in films like Peeping Tom (1960) and Konga (1961),or as gruff, laconic soldiers in The Hill (1965) and Tobruk (1967). His passion for sports in real life made him a natural fit for the role of Len Miller, captain of a Rugby League team, in Lindsay Anderson's This Sporting Life (1963).
Watson also impressed in villainous roles, particularly as the corrupt police officer Quince in The Strange Affair (1968). His career experienced a resurgence in the 1970s, with strong parts in television, including starring roles in The Rebellious Red Gauntlets (1970) and as Llud, right-hand man to Oliver Tobias, in Arthur of the Britons (1972).
Watson made sporadic appearances on popular British television shows, such as Coronation Street (1960) and Z Cars (1962). Despite offers from Hollywood, Watson remained committed to his roots, preferring to stay firmly rooted in British screens.
