Bernard Cribbins was an iconic British actor, comedian, and singer whose career spanned over eight remarkable decades, enchanting audiences of all ages with his comic genius, warm personality, and unforgettable roles both on stage and screen. Born in 1928, he became a household name with hits like “Right Said Fred,” cherished film performances in “The Railway Children,” and beloved TV appearances including “Doctor Who” and “The Wombles”. Cribbins was more than just an entertainer; he was a storyteller whose warmth, humility, and versatility left an indelible mark on British popular culture.
Early Life and Background
Bernard Joseph Cribbins was born on December 29, 1928, in Oldham, Lancashire, England, to a modest, working-class family. His mother, Ethel, was a weaver, and his father, John, a First World War veteran of Irish descent, described as a “jack of all trades.” Cribbins grew up near poverty, experiencing the hardships of pre-war England, which shaped his humble, approachable persona that would later draw audiences in so deeply.
Cribbins left school at thirteen, quickly finding a role as an assistant stage manager at the local theatre before starting an apprenticeship with the Oldham Repertory Theatre. This early immersion in live performance gave him valuable skills and confidence.
Career Beginnings in Theatre
Cribbins’s professional stage debut came in 1956 with the West End production of Shakespeare’s “A Comedy of Errors,” in which he played the Dromio twins. This role marked the start of a flourishing theatre career that saw him appear in several major London productions, such as “Not Now Darling,” “There Goes the Bride,” and “Run for Your Wife”.
Film and Television Stardom
His big break in cinema arrived in the 1960s with comic roles in films like “Two-Way Stretch” and the “Carry On” series. However, one of his most beloved roles remains Albert Perks, the kindly station porter in the classic film “The Railway Children” (1970), which cemented his reputation as a national treasure.
Cribbins’s filmography is remarkably diverse, featuring performances in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Frenzy,” “The Mouse on the Moon,” and “Daleks’ Invasion Earth 2150 A.D.,” the latter marking his debut in the “Doctor Who” universe as Tom Campbell. Decades later, he would return to “Doctor Who” as Wilfred Mott, grandfather to companion Donna Noble—a role that introduced him to new generations of fans.
On television, Cribbins was an institution in children’s programming, notably narrating “The Wombles” and being the most frequent storyteller on the BBC’s “Jackanory,” with over 100 episodes.
Musical Achievements
Bernard Cribbins found music chart success with comic singles in the 1960s, such as “Right Said Fred” and “The Hole in the Ground,” both of which reached the UK top ten in 1962. His novelty songs tackled everyday British life with wit and brought a gentle, humorous insight to pop music, winning audiences beyond his acting talents.
Later Works and Critical Acclaim
In later years, Cribbins continued to be a fixture in British entertainment. He voiced and starred in children’s productions, provided memorable radio narrations, and performed on acclaimed shows such as “Fawlty Towers” as the fussy guest Mr Hutchinson. His voice brought warmth and nostalgia to roles from “Old Jack’s Boat” to narration in “A Passion For Angling”.
Awards and Honours
Cribbins’s immense contributions earned him many accolades:
- Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2011 for services to drama.
- The 2009 Special Award at the British Academy Children’s Awards.
- The prestigious J M Barrie Award in 2014 for his “lasting contribution to children’s arts”.
- BAFTA and Saturn Award nominations for supporting and guest performances.
He was regarded fondly as a British cultural icon, honoured by colleagues and fans alike.
Personal Life
Bernard Cribbins married his lifelong partner, Gillian McBarnet, in 1955. The couple, who shared many years together until Gillian’s passing in 2021, had no children after losing a pregnancy early in their marriage. Cribbins was known for his love of fishing, even incorporating it into his professional life through documentaries and angling series. He faced prostate cancer bravely, maintaining good spirits and health well into his nineties.
Passing and Legacy
Cribbins passed away on July 27, 2022, at the age of 93, following a period of illness. His funeral took place in Surrey, and tributes poured in from every corner of British society and the entertainment world, reflecting his standing as a much-loved figure. His final appearance in “Doctor Who” aired posthumously in 2023, providing one last opportunity for fans to celebrate his work.
Recent News and Controversies
The most notable recent controversy involving Bernard Cribbins posthumously was the criticism directed at BAFTA for omitting him from their 2023 Film Awards’ “In Memoriam” section, despite his vast contributions to British screen and stage. This omission was met with public and peer outrage, which led to a promise of redress at the BAFTA Television Awards, where he was duly honoured. Otherwise, Cribbins’s life was notably free from major controversy—a testament to his professionalism and beloved status in the industry.
Bernard Cribbins in Popular Culture
Cribbins’s influence endures through the generations: from the children who watched “The Wombles” and listened to “Jackanory,” to adults who cherish everything from “The Railway Children” to “Doctor Who”. His autobiography, “Bernard Who? 75 Years of Doing Just About Anything,” offers personal insight into his decades-long career.
With a voice featured in adverts, public safety campaigns, and classic TV, Cribbins’s legacy as a narrator, character actor, and beloved fixture of British entertainment is secure.
FAQs About Bernard Cribbins
What is Bernard Cribbins best known for?
Bernard Cribbins is renowned for his roles in “The Railway Children,” “Doctor Who,” “The Wombles,” his storytelling on “Jackanory,” and comedy songs like “Right Said Fred”.
Where was Bernard Cribbins from?
He was born in Oldham, Lancashire, England, and his working-class roots significantly shaped his worldview and approach to performance.
Was Bernard Cribbins ever knighted?
While he was not knighted, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to drama and children’s entertainment.
What did Bernard Cribbins die from and when?
Cribbins died on July 27, 2022, aged 93, after a period of declining health, including a battle with prostate cancer.
Are there any controversies associated with Bernard Cribbins?
His life was largely free of scandal, though posthumous controversy did arise due to BAFTA’s initial omission of his name during their annual tribute segment.
What is Bernard Cribbins’s legacy today?
His legacy endures in the affection of British audiences, the continuing love for his classic works, and his profound influence on children’s programming, pop culture, and storytelling.
Recent News
With a life free of scandal and filled with achievement, Bernard Cribbins continues to be celebrated for his limitless warmth, boundless talent, and the generations he entertained and inspired, from “The Railway Children” to the 2020s and beyond.
