Michael Robbins, a renowned English actor and comedian, was born on November 14, 1930, and passed away on December 11, 1992, at the age of 62. He is best remembered for his iconic role as Arthur Rudge in the TV sitcom and film versions of On the Buses, which aired from 1969 to 1972.
Born in London, Robbins began his acting career after appearing in amateur dramatic performances in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, where he resided with his family. He made his television debut in the 1960s, featuring in various shows, including Roll-on Bloomin' Death. Primarily a comedy actor, Robbins is most notable for his portrayal of Arthur Rudge, the sarcastic husband of Olive (Anna Karen),in the popular sitcom On the Buses.
Throughout his career, Robbins appeared in numerous comedy roles, including non-recurring parts in Man About the House, The Good Life, One Foot in the Grave, The New Statesman, George and Mildred, Hi-de-Hi!, and You Rang, M'Lord?. He also played a humorously portrayed police sergeant in the TV adaptation of Brendon Chase.
In addition to his comedic roles, Robbins took on various straight roles in prominent British television shows of the 1960s and 1970s, including Minder, The Sweeney, Z-Cars, Return of the Saint, Murder Most English, The Avengers, Dixon of Dock Green, The Bill, and the 1982 Doctor Who story The Visitation.
Robbins's film credits include The Whisperers, Up The Junction, The Looking Glass War, Zeppelin, and Blake Edwards' films The Pink Panther Strikes Again and Victor/Victoria. He also had an extensive career as a radio actor, featuring in the soap opera Waggoner's Walk and the satirical 1970s show Life is What Yer Make It.
Robbins was a dedicated worker for charity and the Catholic Stage Guild, receiving a Papal Award for his services in 1987. In one of his last television appearances, he spoke about his childhood visits to Norfolk and his faith, as well as his love for the Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham.
In the mid-1970s, Robbins directed a film, How Are You?. He was married to actress Hal Dyer from 1960 until his passing in 1992. Robbins was survived by his two children and four grandchildren. Hal Dyer passed away in 2011 from a brain hemorrhage, nearly 20 years after Robbins's death.
