Richard Beckinsale (6 July 1947 – 19 March 1979) was a British actor. He was best known for his starring roles in the popular sitcoms
The Lovers,
Porridge and
Rising Damp (appearing simultaneously in the latter two from 1974-77). He was the father of actresses
Kate Beckinsale and Samantha Beckinsale.
Tropes associated with his career:
- Long-Haired Pretty Boy: Most of his characters are this by default, owing to both his good looks, and very long hair.
- Nice Guy: Many of his characters, and in real life too.
- Star-Making Role: Geoffrey Scrimshaw in The Lovers gave him his big break, whilst Porridge and Rising Damp fully cemented him as a household name.
- What Could Have Been: He was cast as the lead in the TV drama Bloody Kids, playing a hardened detective in a stark departure from his comedic roles. He sadly passed away during filming. The part was recast with Derrick O'Connor.
