Erik Chitty was an English actor known for his roles in Please Sir!, Doctor Zhivago, and A Bridge Too Far. He was born on July 8, 1907, in Dover, Kent, England, and passed away on July 22, 1977, in London, England.
Personal and Family Life
Erik Chitty was married to actress Hester Bevan, with whom he had three children. He came from a family background as the son of a flour miller. In his earlier years, he studied law at Dover College and Jesus College, Cambridge, before pursuing a career in acting.
Acting Career
Chitty trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and became known for his character roles on television, often playing bumbling or owlish characters. During World War II, he served as a sergeant with the Eighth Army in Italy and Egypt, adding to his life experiences that influenced his acting career.
Death and Legacy
Erik Chitty died on July 22, 1977, in London, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances in various television series and films. He is particularly remembered for his role as Mr. Smith in Please Sir! and as Co-Ordinator Engin in Doctor Who.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor Zhivago | 1965-12-22 | Sergei (Old Soldier) |
| Please Sir! | 1971-05-01 | Mr. Smith |
| A Bridge Too Far | 1977-06-15 | Church Organist |
| Doctor Who: The Deadly Assassin | 1976-11-20 | Co-Ordinator Engin |
| The Railway Children | 1970-12-21 | Photographer |
| Lust for a Vampire | 1971-01-17 | Professor Herz |
| The Vault of Horror | 1973-03-16 | Old Waiter |
| Angels Are So Few | 1970-11-05 | N/A |
| Hokusai: An Animated Sketchbook | 1978-01-01 | Voice of Hokusai |
| War and Peace | 1972-09-29 | Gerasim |