John Cater was a masterful character actor who began his career in the first London season of the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1961. He went on to become a familiar face in numerous television sitcoms and serials, including a core cast member in the 1976 series The Duchess of Duke Street.
In The Duchess, Cater played the enigmatic hall porter Mr. Starr, who was never without his squeaky boots or little dog, Fred. This performance led to comedy stints with Frankie Howerd, Roy Kinnear, and Dick Emery.
Cater was also known for his work in the theatre, including appearances in Central's The Other 'Arf (1980) and the BBC's Sitting Pretty (1992). He was a perfectionist, proud of his craft, and believed that if you couldn't cross a stage with a cup of tea, do a half-trip, a double-take on the non-existent pothole, and finish the un-spilt cuppa on the other side, you should find something else to do for a living.
Born in Hendon, north London, Cater was enrolled at the Jean Boggan school of dance at the age of four. He completed his education at Shebbear college, near Bideford, before attending Rada in 1948. His early career was interrupted by national service in the Royal Army Educational Corps, but he went on to join the Dundee Rep, where he worked with Herbert Wise, a lifelong friend.
Cater's career continued to flourish, with appearances in numerous television shows, including The Bill, Crossroads, Minder, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders. He also appeared in several films, including Alfie (1966),Loot (1970),and a pair of horror movies starring Vincent Price.
In his later years, Cater continued to work in television and theatre, appearing in productions such as John Wells's satire Anyone For Denis? (1981) and Jonathan Kent's productions Rules of the Game (1992) and Gangster Number One (1995). He also featured as Justice Shallow in Terry Hands's production of Merry Wives of Windsor at the National in 1995.
Cater was an accomplished musician, playing jazz piano, trombone, harp, and guitar. He was also an avid jazz fan and loved music of all kinds, especially Ravel, Debussy, and Mahler.
Tragically, Cater died of liver cancer, leaving behind his wife Wendy, daughters Harriet and Emma, and a legacy of outstanding performances in film, television, and theatre.
