His daring narratives and innovative storytelling techniques continue to influence playwrights and screenwriters across the globe. A look back on the life and notable works of Dennis Potter
Bryan Pringle's craggy, down-to-earth looks made him a perfect character actor.
She began her career as a comedienne but her legacy endures as a gifted and much loved character actress who left an indelible mark on stage, screen, and radio. Television Heaven remembers the star whose career spanned music hall and Broadway
Despite portraying the 'very English' Tory politician Francis Urquhart in the BBC's House of Cards, Ian Richardson, a leading stage actor, well known for his Shakespearean works, started out with a Scottish accent, having been born and brought up in Edinburgh
“She was a beautiful kind and generous human being that enhanced the lives of all that knew her as well as a great actress.”
Cardew Robinson, whose career was rooted in the music hall and Gang Shows, became a familiar voice on radio and a familiar face on television from the 1950s until the 1990s
Rosenthal left behind a legacy of a vast catalogue of plays, films and television series that include some of the finest dramas ever broadcast on television.
A versatile performer who could play comedy, drama and musical theatre, the stocky and curly-haired British character actor Norman Rossington was a staple on British television for over 40 years
His distinctive voice and facial features made him one of the most well know personalities on television. Television Heaven remembers one of British TV's true greats...
British actress who successfully navigated the paths between television, cinema and theatre and became an unsung hero before she was finally recognised as a national treasure
He helped reshape the boundaries of British comedy and political satire, never afraid to poke fun at those in power, and always ready with a cartoon or quip that laid bare the absurdity of the times
Margaret Rutherford remains one of the most beloved character actresses in British cinematic history. With her unmistakable presence, eccentric mannerisms, and innate sense of comedic timing, she carved out a unique space in the golden age of British film and theatre
Discover the life and legacy of Peter Sallis — from decades as a jobbing actor to beloved roles in Last of the Summer Wine and Wallace and Gromit. A gentle talent who captured hearts worldwide
Television Heaven honours a legendary actress forever associated with some of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms
"(With) so little of his earlier days surviving the dreaded wiping cull of many old shows, it’s remarkable just how little Terry Scott material remains"
His infectious laugh and schoolboy sense of humour instantly endeared him to a generation of fans.
A comedic powerhouse of British TV and cinema, Joan Sims captivated generations with her unforgettable charm and wit and was equally adept at straight drama, although she will always be remembered as the mainstay of the Carry On franchise
With more than 4300 hours of television behind him, Aaron Spelling was the most productive television producer in history. He may not have lifted the culture of the viewing public, but he had the knack of entertaining them.
Spooner's life story is as much the chronicle of the growth and development of a plethora of classic series as it is that of a complex and accomplished talent.
Best remembered as ‘Hunter’, the ruthless and manipulative head of a government security unit known as The Section in the television series Callan, a role that left an enduring mark on 1970s British television. Television Heaven remembers a memorable figure in the world of the espionage genre
Best known for portraying the formidable Nora Batty in Last of the Summer Wine, actress Kathy Staff won the affection of the nation with her wrinkled stockings, hair curlers, and a no-nonsense attitude, which made her a television legend
Sheila Steafel captivated audiences as a versatile character actor, her unique features a canvas for the roles she embodied, each glance infused with playful mischief or an insightful sparkle
With her charming smile, distinctive voice, and undeniable talent, Una Stubbs was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
It’s not often that a sitcom character achieves cult status - but it's not often that the character is played by one of the most beloved actresses on stage and screen.
As the writer of one of Britain's all-time favourite sitcoms, John Sullivan joined a unique group of scriptwriters, whose names became almost as well-known as their television creations.
The very best comedy has always sported an essential core of warm humanity. For decades of British television viewers no one conveyed that warmth or humanity more successfully than the great Eric Sykes.
Talfryn Thomas was a distinctive and much-loved Welsh character actor, recognisable for his buck-toothed appearance, eccentric energy, and scene-stealing screen presence. His life was cut tragically short at the age of 60
Although initially he didn't think much of television, during his 70 years as an actor, Frank Thornton became one of the best known faces on the small screen, and in the process he became one of our best loved comedy actors.
Best remembered for his appearances in Benny Hill's sketches, or a comic foil to others, Bob Todd came late into showbusiness but built a steady reputation as a mimic, stage and radio performer
"You see, I think acting is magic. If I tell you all about myself it will spoil it. It's like a conjuror showing you how he does his tricks. If you can see how it's being done it takes away all the magic."