Richard Leech was an Irish-American actor who is best known for his roles in A Night to Remember (1958), Gandhi (1982), and The Good Companions (1957).
Personal and Family Life
Richard Leech was born on November 24, 1922, in Dublin, Ireland. He was married to Diane Margaret McClelland from 1975 until his death in 2004 and previously to Helen Hyslop Uttley, with whom he had two children. His children’s godfathers were the famous actors Noël Coward and Alec Guinness. In his later years, he became very deaf, which affected his ability to continue acting.
Career Highlights
Before starting his acting career, Richard Leech trained as a doctor, influenced by his family’s medical background. However, after practicing for just one year, he decided to pursue acting instead. He even switched to the surname “Leech,” an old term for doctor, believing it inappropriate to use his professional name. Alongside acting, he wrote a column titled “Doctor in the Wings” for World Medicine while managing a small vineyard in England.
Death and Legacy
Richard Leech passed away on March 24, 2004, in London, England at the age of 81. He left behind a legacy of varied performances in film and television that showcased his talent and versatility as an actor. His decision to leave medicine for acting remains an inspirational tale for many aspiring actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| A Night to Remember | 1958-07-03 | First Officer William Murdoch |
| Night of the Demon | 1957-11-09 | Inspector Mottrarn |
| The Terror of the Tongs | 1961-03-15 | Inspector Bob Dean |
| Yangtse Incident: The Story of H.M.S. Amethyst | 1957-04-01 | Lieutenant Strain |
| A Handful of Dust | 1988-06-24 | Doctor |
| The Fighting Prince of Donegal | 1966-10-01 | Phelim O’Toole |
| The Wind Cannot Read | 1958-06-10 | Hobson |
| Dublin Nightmare | 1958-10-01 | Steve Lawlor |
| Walk a Tightrope | 1964-10-30 | Doug Randle |
| The Moonraker | 1958-08-02 | Henry Strangeways |
| The Long Arm | 1956-06-01 | Nightwatchman / Gilson |
| The Dam Busters | 1955-05-16 | Squadron Leader H. M. Young, D.F.C. |
| Ice Cold in Alex | 1958-06-24 | Captain Crosbie |
| Gandhi | 1982-12-01 | Brigadier |
| The Good Companions | 1957-04-22 | Jack Ridvers |
| Doctor Who: The Sun Makers | 1977-12-17 | Gatherer Hade |