David Bellamy was an English actor known for Choices for Tomorrow, Grange Hill, and The Animal Game. He was also a prominent botanist and conservationist, recognized for his unique approach to nature and environmental issues.
Personal and Family Life
David Bellamy was born on January 18, 1933, in Hammersmith, London. He was married to Rosemary Froy from January 3, 1959, until her death on December 21, 2018, and they had five children together. His career was marked by a notable shift from acting to becoming a well-known TV personality and conservationist.
Career Highlights
His scientific journey started when he joined the biology department of a technical college in Surrey, sparked by a trip to Scotland that led to his appreciation for botany. He was known for his catchphrase “gwapple me gwapenuts,” often imitated by others, including Lenny Henry on the show Tiswas. Despite advocating for environmental issues, he faced criticism later in life for his views on global warming and was against the construction of wind farms in natural spaces.
Death and Legacy
David Bellamy passed away on December 11, 2019, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, due to vascular dementia. His contributions to television and conservation left a lasting impact, although some of his controversial views continue to spark discussions about environmental issues. He is remembered for his passion for nature and his engaging presentation style.
Filmography
| Type | Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actor | Grange Hill | 1984 | Celebrity Chairman |
| Actor | Choices for Tomorrow | 1975 | Unknown |
| Actor | The Animal Game | 1973 | Unknown |
| Self | Various TV Shows | Numerous | |
| Archive Footage | Various | Numerous |