Richard Bernard Murdoch's educational journey began at Charterhouse School in Surrey, followed by his attendance at Pembroke College, Cambridge University. During his time at university, he actively participated in the Footlights Dramatic Club's performances.
Murdoch's early foray into the world of cinema came in the form of an uncredited dancing extra in the 1932 film "Looking on the Bright Side". He later made an appearance in the early BBC Television programme "Television Follies" in 1937.
Murdoch's big break in the British Broadcasting Corporation's comedy radio programme "Band Waggon" in 1938 marked a significant turning point in his career. He partnered with the rising star Arthur Askey, earning the nickname "Stinker" due to his superior formal education.
As Askey transitioned from radio to film at the end of the 1930s, Murdoch accompanied him, and they went on to appear in several Askey star vehicle films together. Murdoch's tall, athletic physique, good looks, and upper-middle-class English Home Counties demeanor provided a comedic contrast to Askey's short stature, homely appearance, Lancashire provincial accent, and working-class performance persona.
Their working partnership came to an end during World War 2, when Murdoch joined the Armed Forces. However, they briefly rekindled their partnership in the late 1950s for the television series "Living It Up".
Murdoch was conscripted into the Royal Air Force in 1941, serving as a junior intelligence officer with Bomber Command. He was later posted to the Department of Allied Air Force and Foreign Liaison as a Flight Lieutenant, where he worked alongside Wing Commander Kenneth Horne. In 1943, he joined the Directorate of Administrative Plans at the Air Ministry, responsible for the supply of aircraft and air equipment to Russia. Murdoch concluded the war with the rank of Squadron Leader.
