Tristan de Vere Cole embarked on a distinguished career in the Royal Navy, serving from the tender age of 16 to 25. Following his naval tenure, he transitioned into the world of theater, taking on roles as an actor and Assistant Stage Manager at the renowned Bristol Old Vic. This marked the beginning of his journey in television, which would become a significant aspect of his professional life.
Throughout his illustrious career, de Vere Cole directed numerous acclaimed television series, including the popular "Bergerac" (1981-1991),"Secret Army" (1979),and "Warship" (1974-1976). He also helmed several classic serials, such as the four-part "Kenilworth" (1967) and "John Halifax, Gentleman" (1974),as well as numerous period plays, including "Thirty-Minute Theatre" (1965) and "The Game" (1997),set in 1913. His experience in directing period dramas is further exemplified by his work on Alan Plater's highly acclaimed "Trinity Tales" (1975).
In addition to his extensive television work, de Vere Cole also directed the first episode of the long-running Yorkshire TV soap "Emmerdale" (1972-). His experience shooting at sea proved invaluable for his two feature films, both Anglo-Norwegian productions. The first, "Orions belte" (1985),was shot in Spitzbergen, the Arctic, the North Cape, and Oslo, while the second, "Dykket" (1989),was filmed in the North Sea.
