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Last updated on the 26 March 2024 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 7 July 1919, Chelsea, London, England.Â
Jon Pertwee was an English actor with a career spanning nearly six decades. Pertwee hailed from a theatrical family, which laid the foundation for his future in entertainment. His father, Roland Pertwee, was a notable screenwriter and actor, and his mother, Avice Scholtz, separated from his father when Pertwee was young.
Despite the family split, Pertwee’s early life was steeped in the arts and he was godson to actor Henry Ainley, whose son Anthony would later play the Master in “Doctor Who” alongside Pertwee.
Jon Pertwee’s education was as colourful as his career. He attended Frensham Heights School in Surrey, Sherborne School in Dorset and other institutions from which he was expelled.
His academic journey was marked by a determination to overcome a speech impediment, which initially barred him from the Central School of Speech & Drama. Nevertheless, he was admitted to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), graduating in 1939.
Jon Pertwee’s early career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the Royal Navy. After the war, he returned to acting and became known for his comedic roles. He played Chief Petty Officer Pertwee in the BBC Radio sitcom “The Navy Lark” from 1959 to 1977 and appeared in four films in the “Carry On” series.
However, it was his role as the Third Doctor in the BBC’s “Doctor Who” from 1970 to 1974 that cemented his place in British pop culture. His portrayal of the Doctor was charismatic and action-oriented, a significant shift from his predecessors.
Beyond “Doctor Who,” Pertwee’s television highlights include hosting the game show “Whodunnit?” from 1974 to 1978 and playing the title character in “Worzel Gummidge” from 1979 to 1981 and again from 1987 to 1989. His performance as the lovable scarecrow showcased his versatility and endeared him to a new generation of fans.
Jon Pertwee was married twice, first to Jean Marsh in 1955, they divorced in 1960, and then to Ingeborg Rhoesa in the same year. He had two children, including actor Sean Pertwee. Pertwee maintained a close association with “Doctor Who” throughout his life, appearing at fan conventions and giving interviews. His legacy in the series is celebrated by fans worldwide.
Jon Pertwee passed away on May 20, 1996, in Sherman, Connecticut, at the age of 76. He left behind a rich legacy of performances across radio, film, and television. His resting place is at Putney Vale Cemetery in London, England, where fans continue to pay tribute to the man who brought so much joy and entertainment to their lives.
Suggested viewing
Doctor Who (1963)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.6 Doctor Who is a long-running British science fiction series about a time-traveling alien called the Doctor. The Doctor, who can regenerate into new bodies when needed, explores the universe in a spaceship that appears as a blue police box. Along with companions they pick up on their journeys, the Doctor fights against dangerous enemies like the Daleks and Cybermen, fighting for justice and helping those in need throughout history. Top cast: Jon Pertwee, Elizabeth Sladen, Katy Manning, Caroline John. |
Full filmography (@Wikipedia)
Jon Pertwee Gallery
