T.P. McKenna was an American actor known for his diverse roles in film and television, particularly in works like “Straw Dogs,” “The Quare Fellow,” and “Young Cassidy.” He had a significant presence in British theatre and screen, showcasing his talent across multiple genres.
Personal and Family Life
Born Thomas Patrick McKenna on September 7, 1929, in Mullagh, County Cavan, Ireland, McKenna had a rich family life. He was married to May White from 1955 until her passing in 2007, and together they had five children, including fellow actors Breffni and Kilian McKenna.
Career Highlights
McKenna began his acting career on stage with a debut in “Summer and Smoke” at the Pike Theatre in Dublin. He then transitioned to film, appearing in his first credited role in “The Night Fighters” (1960), and quickly gained recognition through his appearances in influential television series. Notably, he had a memorable role in the controversial film “Straw Dogs” and participated in several acclaimed TV dramas such as “Inspector Morse” and “Casualty,” showcasing his character acting skills throughout the decades.
Death and Legacy
T.P. McKenna passed away on February 13, 2011, in Hampstead, London. His legacy endures through his contributions to both stage and screen, where he is remembered as a versatile character actor who left a lasting impact on many beloved productions.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Straw Dogs | 1971-11-25 | Maj. John Scott |
| Villain | 1971-05-26 | Frank Fletcher |
| Red Scorpion | 1988-12-24 | General Vortek |
| Girl with Green Eyes | 1964-05-14 | The Priest |
| The Beast in the Cellar | 1970-08-01 | Det. Chief Sup. Paddick |
| Young Cassidy | 1965-02-25 | Tom |
| A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man | 1977-09-01 | Simon Dedalus |
| All Creatures Great and Small | 1975-07-27 | Soames |
| Doctor Who: The Greatest Show in the Galaxy | 1988-12-14 | Captain Cook |
| Bleak House | 1985-04-10 | Harold Skimpole |
| Jack the Ripper | 1988-10-11 | O’Connor |