Donald Peers was a Welsh actor and singer known for his work in light popular music, with his most famous song being “By a Babbling Brook.” He gained significant fame, especially in the early 1960s, and is remembered for introducing new talents on his own television show.
Personal and Family Life
Donald Peers was born on July 10, 1908, in Ammanford, Dyfed, Wales. He was married to Gertrude Mary Thomson from 1930 until his death in 1973, and they had one child together. While Peers’s family hoped he would pursue a career in teaching, he followed his passion for music and performance, leaving home at the age of sixteen.
Career Highlights
Peers was a multifaceted performer, widely noted for his singing career and acting roles. He had a popular television show titled “Donald Peers Presents,” where he showcased his talent and introduced emerging artists, including Tom Jones. At the peak of his career, he received an impressive 3,000 fan letters each week, highlighting his popularity.
Death and Legacy
Donald Peers passed away on August 8, 1973, in Brighton, East Sussex, England, due to bronchial pneumonia. His legacy lives on through his music and performances, and he is commemorated with a memorial tablet in the Garden of Remembrance, which captures the affection of his fans with the inscription “Loved by Kates, ‘In a Shady Nook by a Babbling Brook’.”
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| One O’Clock Show | Self | 1959-1964 |
| Sing Along with Me | David Parry | 1952 |
| The Balloon Goes Up | Sergeant Jim | 1942 |