William Franklyn

William Franklyn was a British actor who is best known for his roles in “The Hitch Hiker’s Guide To The Galaxy,” “Splitting Heirs,” and “The Satanic Rites of Dracula.” He had a successful career spanning several decades in film, television, and radio.

Personal and Family Life

Born William Leo Beare on September 22, 1925, in Kensington, London, Franklyn had two marriages. He was married to Margo Johns from 1952 until their divorce in 1962 and later to Susanna Carroll from 1966 until his death in 2006. He had three children, including daughter Sabina Franklyn.

Career Overview

William Franklyn began his acting career on stage at the age of 15 and became known for his smooth voice, which was often used in TV commercials and voice-overs. He initially played serious roles but transitioned to comedy as his career progressed. In addition to his acting, Franklyn co-wrote a spy series that was considered ahead of its time.

Death and Legacy

William Franklyn passed away on October 31, 2006, in London due to prostate cancer. He is remembered for his versatile acting skills and contributions to both drama and comedy in film and television. His legacy includes his work as the voice of The Book in the revamped episodes of “The Hitch Hiker’s Guide To The Galaxy.”

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Splitting Heirs 1993-04-02 Andrews
The Satanic Rites of Dracula 1973-11-03 Peter Torrence
The Snorkel 1958-07-07 Wilson
Pit of Darkness 1961-10-01 Richard Logan
Neil Simon’s London Suite 1996-09-15 Widley
That Woman Opposite 1957-05-28 Ned Atwood
The Flesh Is Weak 1957-08-06 Lloyd Buxton
Fury at Smugglers’ Bay 1961-01-01 Captain
Cul-de-sac 1966-06-17 Cecil
The Big Day 1960-07-01 Mr. T. Selkirk
Quatermass 2 1957-05-24 Dr. Tom Brand
Diana: Her True Story 1993-04-03 Lord Mountbatten
The Love Match 1955-02-01 Arthur Ford
Operation Diplomat 1953-12-01 Dr. Gillespie
J.G. Ballard: A Profile 2003-02-22 Readings (voice)
Above Us the Waves 1955-03-29 No. 1, X2
The Intelligence Men 1965-04-13 Colonel Grant
Danger Within 1959-02-17 Capt. Tony Long
Ooh… You Are Awful 1972-12-01 Arnold Van Cleef
Nutcracker 1982-12-17 Sir Arthur Cartwright
The Big Deal 1961-03-03 John Hamilton
El último viaje de Robert Rylands 1996-10-18 Robert Rylands
Time Is My Enemy 1954-09-01 Sgt. Peter Thompson
The Avengers 1961-01-07 Brinstead
The Champions 1968-09-25 Hartington
No Hiding Place 1959-09-16
The Count of Monte Cristo 1956-02-20 Phillipe
Public Eye 1965-01-23
International Detective 1959-12-26 Conrad Schneider
Top Secret 1961-08-11
Lovejoy 1986-01-10 Burgess
The Courtroom 2004-06-21
The New Avengers 1976-10-22
Maigret 1960-10-31 Count Maurice
Curtain of Fear 1964-10-28
Justice 2011-04-04
G.B.H. 1991-06-06 Distinguished Gent
Justice 1971-10-08 James Kirby
The Adventures of Sir Lancelot 1956-09-15 Baron Mortaise
Interpol Calling 1959-09-13 Nevil
The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel 1955-09-28 Jacques Fleury
International Detective