Richard Wilson OBE, born Iain Carmichael Wilson, is a Scottish actor, theatre director, and broadcaster with a remarkable career spanning decades. He is best known for his iconic role as Victor Meldrew in the BBC sitcom One Foot in the Grave, which premiered in 1990.
Born in Greenock, Scotland, Wilson studied science in his hometown before serving in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Singapore. He later worked as a research scientist at Stobhill Hospital in Glasgow before switching to acting at the age of 27. Wilson trained at RADA and honed his craft in repertory theatres in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Manchester.
Initially, Wilson turned down the role of Victor Meldrew, but later reconsidered and took on the iconic character. He has also appeared in other notable roles, including Gaius, the court physician of Camelot, in the BBC drama Merlin.
Wilson has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the world of drama. In 1994, he was awarded the OBE for his services as a director and actor. He has also been elected Rector of the University of Glasgow and has written his biography, One Foot on the Stage: The Biography of Richard Wilson.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Wilson has been a vocal advocate for various causes. He has worked with the gay rights campaign group Stonewall and is a patron of Scottish Youth Theatre. He has also supported the charity Sense and has hosted their annual award ceremony.
Wilson has also lent his voice to various projects, including the narration of "The Man Who Called Himself Jesus" from Strawbs' debut album. He has been a long-time supporter of the Labour Party and has recorded the party's manifesto for the 2010 General Election.
In 2011, Wilson presented an edition of the Channel 4 current affairs programme Dispatches, highlighting the failings of the British rail network. He has also been a campaigner for gay rights and came out as gay in a Daily Mail interview in 2013.
In recent years, Wilson has faced personal challenges, including a heart attack in 2016. Despite this, he remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and continues to be a passionate advocate for various causes.
