Bernard Cribbins British actor Date of Birth: 29.12.1928 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Career
2. Theatre and Music Career
3. Film and Television Roles
4. Later Career and Legacy
5. Personal Life and Death

Early Life and Career

Bernard Cribbins was born in Oldham, England on December 29, 1928. His father, John Cribbins, was a veteran of World War I and a natural showman, passing on his love of theatre to his son. His mother, Ethel Clarkson, worked as a weaver. Bernard, the second of four children, grew up with three sisters: Veronica, Kathleen, and Barbara. Despite his family's modest means, Bernard pursued his education, first in school and then as an assistant stage manager at a local theatre during World War II. Upon reaching adulthood, he joined the Parachute Regiment based in Hampshire and was later stationed in Palestine.

Theatre and Music Career

After demobilizing, Cribbins returned to the stage, which had always been his true passion. Known for his natural flair for performance, he played notable roles in productions such as Shakespeare's "The Comedy of Errors" and Ray Cooney's "Run for Your Wife." However, his talent extended beyond theatre. His musical abilities caught the attention of George Martin, who later became known as the "fifth Beatle." Martin produced Cribbins' early singles, including "The Hole in the Ground," "Right Said Fred," and "Gossip Calypso," which charted in the top 30 of the UK charts in the early 1960s.

Film and Television Roles

Bernard Cribbins enjoyed a diverse film and television career, showcasing his versatility in both comedy and drama. He was equally adept at starring roles and supporting characters. His appearances in the British film franchise "Carry On" and the iconic sci-fi series "Doctor Who" stand out as notable contributions. In 1966, he made his first foray into the "Doctor Who" universe as Police Constable Tom Campbell in the film "Daleks' Invasion Earth 2150 A.D." He would later reprise his role as Wilfred Mott, grandfather to Martha Jones' Companion, in the revived series between 2007 and 2010.

Later Career and Legacy

Cribbins' popularity continued to soar throughout the years. He earned a BAFTA nomination for his role as the lovable porter Perks in the 1970 adaptation of the children's novel "The Railway Children." In the 1980s, he starred in sitcoms such as "The Shillingbury Tales" and "On the Buses," cementing his reputation as a comedic actor. Despite stepping back from acting in later years, he returned to his first love of voiceover work, becoming a beloved figure for children. His recurring roles in the soap operas "Coronation Street" and "Emmerdale Farm" kept him in the public eye.

Personal Life and Death

Bernard Cribbins married Gillian McBarnet, whom he met while working in the theatre, in 1955. They shared a happy marriage for over six decades, until Gillian's passing in 2021. The couple did not have any children. Bernard Cribbins passed away at the age of 93 on July 27, 2022, just a year after his beloved wife. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.