John Hewer was an English actor who is best known for his role as Captain Birdseye in the iconic UK TV advertisements from 1967 to 1998. He gained recognition for his performances in various films, including “Assassin for Hire,” “Nicholas Nickleby,” and “Fredric March Presents Tales from Dickens.”
Personal and Family Life
John Hewer was born on January 13, 1922, in Leyton, Essex, England. He had a long and successful career in acting and was also involved in the theatre, being a member of London’s Players Theatre. In addition to his acting roles, he presented music-hall shows at Southend Pier, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Career Highlights
John Hewer’s most notable contribution to entertainment was playing Captain Birdseye, a character he became synonymous with in British advertising. He was part of a memorable 1993 poll that placed Captain Birds Eye as the second most-recognized captain in the UK, trailing only Captain Cook. Despite the character’s retirement in 1971, Captain Birdseye made a return to the screen three years later, reaffirming Hewer’s impact on the advertising landscape.
Death and Legacy
John Hewer passed away on March 16, 2008, in Twickenham, London. His legacy lives on not only through his beloved character Captain Birdseye but also through his many roles in film and television. His contributions to the performing arts and his work in promoting show business continue to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Three Spare Wives | 1962-01-01 | Rupert |
| Assassin for Hire | 1951-04-01 | Giuseppe Riccardi |
| Law and Disorder | 1958-06-09 | Foxy |
| Strip Tease Murder | 1961-03-01 | Bert Black |
| Mister Ten Per Cent | 1967-01-01 | Townsend |
| Home Before Midnight | 1979-10-18 | Donelly |
| Colonel March Investigates | 1953-07-01 | John Parrish |
| Colonel March of Scotland Yard | 1956-02-22 | John Parrish |
| Nicholas Nickleby | 1977-03-27 | Edwin Cherryble |