Brian Hall was an American actor who is best known for his roles as Terry the chef in Fawlty Towers, Sergeant Ted Drake in Softly Softly, and Alan in The Long Good Friday. Born on November 20, 1937, in Brighton, England, Hall became known for his tough, gangster-like characters throughout his career.
Personal and Family Life
Brian Hall was married to Marlene Hall from 1962 until his death in 1997, and together they had three children. He began acting in his teenage years in local theater productions, which showcased his imposing presence that suited villainous roles well. After initially working as a taxi driver, he was discovered by a theatrical agent, which prompted him to pursue a career in acting.
Career Highlights
His successful television career included notable performances in various series, with his most famous role as Terry in the iconic BBC comedy Fawlty Towers. Hall also appeared in stage productions, such as those at the Royal Court Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. He was close friends with actor John Cleese and shared a memorable comedic exchange after the show’s conclusion.
Death and Legacy
Brian Hall passed away on September 17, 1997, in Worthing, Sussex, England, due to cancer. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances, particularly in Fawlty Towers, which remains a beloved series. Hall’s characters often left a lasting impression, showcasing his talent in portraying complex roles.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| McVicar | 1980-08-01 | Terry Stokes |
| The Grass Arena | 1992-01-19 | |
| The Land That Time Forgot | 1974-08-13 | Schwartz |
| Sweeney 2 | 1978-03-30 | Haughton |
| The Long Good Friday | 1980-11-01 | Alan |
| From Beyond the Grave | 1974-02-21 | Man on Phone (uncredited) |
| Trial by Combat | 1976-04-01 | Policeman with Alsatian |
| Adolf Hitler – My Part in His Downfall | 1973-06-12 | MP Sergeant |
| Tumbledown | 1988-05-29 | Squadron Leader Wentworth |
| Yellow Dog | 1973-08-11 | Bertrum |
| Softly, Softly | 1966-01-05 | |
| Rumpole of the Bailey | 1975-12-17 | |
| You Must Be The Husband | 1987-09-08 | |
| Break in the Sun | 1981-02-11 | |
| Bergerac | 1981-10-18 | Sam Tirrell |
| The Bill | 1984-10-16 | |
| Fawlty Towers | 1975-09-19 | Terry the Chef |
| Crocodile Shoes | 1994-11-10 | Barman |
| Up the Elephant and Round the Castle | 1983-11-30 | |
| Birds of a Feather | 1989-10-16 | Warder Flowers |
| The Professionals | 1977-12-30 | Sam Burton |
| The Sweeney | 1975-01-02 | Ernie Davies |
| Minder | 1979-10-29 | Alan |
| The Main Chance | 1969-06-18 | Sammy Beddowes |
| The Upper Hand | 1990-05-01 | Ernie |
| Terry and June | 1979-10-24 | Bernie |
| Softly Softly: Task Force | 1969-11-20 | PC Drake |
| Fawlty Towers | 1975-09-19 | Terry |