Albert Patrick Jordan, the son of a regimental sergeant major, embarked on a stage career in London, making his debut in a 1946 Old Vic production of "Richard II" at the New Theatre. He shared the stage with esteemed actors Harry Andrews, Rosalind Atkinson, and the renowned Alec Guinness. This talented ensemble went on to perform in other Shakespearean plays, including "Coriolanus" and "The Taming of the Shrew".
Jordan's transition to the screen began with a TV adaptation of "The Browning Version" in 1949, reprising his stage role from earlier that year. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he appeared in various films and television shows, often playing small or uncredited parts. His distinctive stern features and authoritative demeanor led to his consistent typecasting as police officers or soldiers.
A notable characteristic of Jordan's was the scar on his right cheek, which added depth to his characters, many of whom met a tragic end. He appeared in several notable television shows, including "No Hiding Place" (1959),"Dixon of Dock Green" (1955),and "Crossroads" (1964). He also had featured roles in the war films "The Heroes of Telemark" (1965),"Play Dirty" (1969),and "Too Late the Hero" (1970).
Through his friendship with Alec Guinness, Jordan secured a role in the iconic film "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" (1977) as an Imperial Officer, aide to Grand Moff Tarkin (played by Peter Cushing). Unfortunately, he opted for a one-off fee instead of a share of the royalties, a decision he would later regret.
After a long and illustrious career, Jordan retired in 1995 and passed away at the age of 96 in January 2020. He was married to the acclaimed illustrator Margery Gill (1925-2008),who was renowned for her work on children's books.
