Patric Doonan was an English actor known for his roles in Project M7, The Cockleshell Heroes, and Crest of the Wave. He was born on April 19, 1926, in Alvaston, Derby, England, and died on March 10, 1958, in Chelsea, London, England.
Personal and Family Life
Patric Doonan was born George W. Doonan and had a brief but impactful career in acting. He was married to Aud Johansen from December 1948 until his death in 1958. At the time of his passing, he was engaged to the actress Ann Firbank, showcasing the connections he had within the film industry.
Career Highlights
Doonan was known for playing often menacing characters in various British films. He took over the role of Det. Sgt. Trotter in Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” in 1954, a production that has continued to run for decades. His work in theater and film reflected his talent, although he had a troubled personal life.
Death and Legacy
Patric Doonan passed away on March 10, 1958, from suicide by gas inhalation, leaving behind a legacy of compelling performances. He is remembered as a minor yet notable figure in British cinema and is referenced in Morrissey’s song “Now My Heart Is Full.” His untimely death highlights the struggles he faced, which starkly contrasted with his on-stage personas.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Man in the White Suit | 1951-08-07 | Frank |
| The Blue Lamp | 1950-01-19 | Spud |
| High Treason | 1951-11-13 | George Ellis |
| Train of Events | 1949-01-18 | Ron Stacey |
| Seagulls Over Sorrento | 1954-07-13 | Petty Officer Herbert |
| I’m A Stranger | 1952-07-01 | George Westcott |
| John and Julie | 1955-07-26 | Jim Webber |
| All Over the Town | 1949-04-25 | Burton |
| Wheel of Fate | 1953-07-01 | Johnny Burrows |
| What Every Woman Wants | 1954-06-10 | Mark Hadley |
| Gift Horse | 1952-06-01 | Petty Officer Martin |
| The Red Beret | 1953-08-11 | Flash |
| Blackout | 1950-09-13 | Chalky |
| The Net | 1953-02-09 | Brian Jackson |
| Calling Bulldog Drummond | 1951-07-02 | Alec |
| Highly Dangerous | 1950-12-06 | Customs Man |
| Once a Jolly Swagman | 1949-02-02 | Dick |
| Appointment with Venus | 1951-10-08 | Sgt. Forbes |
| Captain Horatio Hornblower R.N. | 1951-04-10 | Seaman (uncredited) |
| A Run for Your Money | 1949-11-23 | Conductor (uncredited) |
| The Gentle Gunman | 1952-10-23 | Sentry (uncredited) |