Bernard Hepton was an English actor who is best known for his roles in Great Expectations, I, Claudius, and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. He had a distinguished career spanning over six decades in theater and television.
Personal and Family Life
Born on October 19, 1925, in Bradford, West Yorkshire, Bernard Hepton was originally named Francis Bernard Heptonstall. He was married twice, first to Nancie Jackson from 1957 until her death in 1977, and later to Hilary Liddell from 1979 until her passing in 2013.
Career
Hepton’s acting journey started when he was introduced to amateur theater during World War II. After honing his skills at various theaters, he joined BBC2 in 1964, where he initially intended to direct but soon became an on-screen actor. He became famous for portraying complex characters across many classic adaptations, earning recognition for his roles in period dramas.
Death and Legacy
Bernard Hepton passed away on July 27, 2018, in Dover, Kent, England. His contributions to theater and television have left a lasting impact, particularly remembered for his portrayals of significant historical figures.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Emma | 1996-10-02 | Mr. Woodhouse |
| The Woman in Black | 1989-12-24 | Sam Toovey |
| The Baroness and the Pig | 2002-09-02 | Soames |
| Stealing Heaven | 1988-05-20 | Bishop |
| An Inspector Calls | 1982-08-17 | Inspector Goole |
| Follow The Yellow Brick Road | 1972-07-04 | Colin Sands |
| Gandhi | 1982-12-01 | G.O.C. |
| The Disputation | 1986-12-21 | Raymund de Penjaforte |
| The Devil’s Eggshell | 1966-06-28 | Lord Portmanteau |
| Get Carter | 1971-02-03 | Thorpe |
| Henry VIII and His Six Wives | 1972-07-13 | Cranmer |
| Robin Redbreast | 1970-12-10 | Fisher |
| Barry Lyndon | 1975-12-18 | Diner at Feast for Lord Wendover |
| Voyage of the Damned | 1976-12-22 | Milton Goldsmith |
| The Holcroft Covenant | 1985-09-20 | Commander Leighton |
| Private Practice | 1973-11-22 | Derek |
| Eminent Domain | 1991-04-12 | Slowak |
| The Old Devils | 1992-03-16 | Malcolm Cellan-Davies |
| Shadey | 1985-05-31 | Captain Amies |
| In The Cold Light Of Day | 1994-06-15 | Len |
| Paradise Restored | 1974-11-08 | Oliver Cromwell |
| The Mosedale Horseshoe | 1971-03-23 | Derek |
| The House on the Hill | 1975-01-20 | Psychiatrist |