• The English Theatre, Vienna. August, 1977
• Character: Shylock
• N.B. Directed by Peter and recorded at the English Theatre, Vienna, by Austrian Educational Television

The Merchant of Venice is amongst of Shakespeare’s most demanding drams plays for contemporary audiences. The attitude it conveys on Judaism remains a highly controversial point of debate, and its examinations of justice, mercy and, of course, religious intolerance are as relevant today as they were in the 17th Century. All that said Peter, who also directed the play, was to deliver an engaging, thoughtful, amusing remodelling of this somewhat contentious play.

The Story

Act I: Antonio, an antisemitic merchant, takes a loan from the Jew, Shylock (Peter Wyngarde), to help his friend to court Portia. Antonio can’t repay the loan, and without mercy, Shylock demands a pound of his flesh. The heiress Portia, now the wife of Antonio’s friend, dresses as a lawyer and saves Antonio. 

In Venice, a merchant named Antonio worries that his ships are overdue. As his colleagues offer comfort, his young friends – Bassanio, Graziano, and Lorenzo – arrive. Bassanio asks Antonio for a loan, so that he can pursue the wealthy Portia, who lives in Belmont. Antonio cannot afford the loan. Instead, he sends Bassanio to borrow the money on the security of Antonio’s expected shipments.

At Belmont, Portia and her maid, Nerissa, discuss the suitors who have come in response to Portia’s father’s strange will. The will says Portia may only marry a man who chooses the correct casket made from three possible options: gold, silver, and lead. Much to Portia’s distress, all her suitors are unsatisfactory. However, she does fondly remember a time when Bassanio came to Belmont, and that leaves her with some hope. 

Bassanio approaches Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, about the loan. Shylock holds a grudge against Antonio for his lending practices and apparent antisemitism. Still he offers Bassanio the loan. Instead of charging interest, seemingly as a kind of joke, he asks for a pound of Antonio’s flesh if the loan isn’t repaid within three months. The bond is agreed to (who wouldn’t agree to that?) and Bassanio prepares to leave for Belmont with his friend Graziano. 

Act II: Meanwhile, one of Shylock’s servants, Launcelot, wishes to change masters and persuades Bassanio to employ him. Shylock’s daughter, Jessica, also longs to leave home. She wants to become a Christian and marry Antonio’s friend Lorenzo. Before he departs to serve his new master, Launcelot takes a letter to Lorenzo that contains plans for Lorenzo and Jessica to elope that night. When Shylock goes out, Jessica escapes to elope, taking gold and jewels with her. The following day, Bassanio sets sail for Belmont, while Shylock rages over the loss of his daughter and the treasures she has stolen. 

In Belmont, one of Portia’s suitors (the Prince of Morocco) chooses the golden casket, while another (the Prince of Aragon) selects silver. Both chose the wrong casket and are unsuccessful. As Aragon leaves, Bassanio is announced. Portia eagerly goes to greet him. 

Act III: After a few days, Shylock hears that his daughter Jessica is squandering her stolen wealth in Genoa. He begins to rail bitterly against Christians. He reminds Antonio’s friends that if the loan is not repaid on time, he will insist on the original agreement of one pound of flesh. 

Back in Belmont, Bassanio chooses the lead casket, and in so doing, he wins Portia. His friend Graziano asks for Portia’s maid Nerissa to be his wife. Portia gives her ring to Bassanio, making him promise never to give it to another. As Lorenzo and Jessica come to Belmont, news arrives that Antonio’s ships have been lost at sea, and he is now bankrupt. They are also told Shylock insists on the fulfilment of his bond and has had Antonio arrested. Bassanio and Graziano leave in haste to help Antonio. Portia and Nerissa resolve to follow afterwards, disguised as lawyers. 

Act IV: In the court in Venice, Shylock demands his pound of flesh. The Duke, presiding over the court, seeks legal advice from the lawyer “Balthazar,” who is Portia in disguise. Portia pleads for Shylock to have mercy on Antonio. Bassanio offers his wife’s money, which would more than pay the debt, but Shylock refuses to accept. Antonio’s death is only prevented as Balthazar explains the bond is for flesh but not for a single drop of blood. So Shylock cannot collect the pound of flesh. 

For threatening the life of a Venetian, Shylock forfeits his goods to Antonio and Bassanio. Antonio refuses his share of compensation and asks for it to be put in a trust for Lorenzo and Jessica. He also demands that Shylock becomes a Christian. Broken and in submission, Shylock leaves the court. Bassanio and Graziano thank the lawyers, who ask for their rings as legal fees. Bassanio and Graziano refuse until Antonio intervenes and makes them give the rings to the lawyers. 

Act V: Undisguised, Portia and Nerissa return home at night to find Lorenzo and Jessica enjoying the tranquillity of Belmont. When their husbands arrive, Portia and Nerissa scold them for giving away their rings, pretending they had been given away to other women. Before long, they reveal themselves as the lawyers from the trial. Antonio receives news that his ships have returned safely after all (looks like we didn’t need to go through all this mess in the first place!). The play ends as the three couples prepare to celebrate their marriages.

Additional

Peter was to bring a controversial scene to the play which involved Jessica, the money-lender’s daughter, kissing her father fully on the lips. This was to raise many an eyebrow both in the audience and in the press
ranks.

He also recorded sequences from the play for Austrian broadcaster, WOR-TV, which were screened as part of Scenes From Shakespeare – a series produced especially for educational purposes. He was paid £5,000
for performing the additional scenes, plus £1,000 for his direction. The piece was never to be shown outside of Austria.

Peter had hoped that his old friend Vernon Dobtcheff would join him in Vienna to play Bassanio but, alas, Dobtcheff was otherwise engaged.

The Hellfire Club: The OFFICIAL PETER WYNGARDE Appreciation Society: https://www.facebook.com/groups/813997125389790/

Emails and messages from Peter’s many fans around the world.

Please check back – more to come…

Please Note: The following emails are posted with the newest messages at the top and working down to the oldest.

CATAGORIES

Wyngarde Chat: meeting Peter, favorite shows & episodes, fond memories.
Thoughts On... 'Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers'
Thoughts On... Wikipedia and how it has been so damaging to Peter's reputation over the years
Thoughts On... misinformation about Peter in the media, books and on the internet.
Thoughts On... internet trolls and concerns regarding the future of Fandom

Wyngarde Chat Meeting Peter, favourite show & episodes, fond memories...

Hello,

I have been watching Department S on YouTube of late and can’t believe how good these shows with Peter were. I have had to mention them on my Radio Shows on Trossachs Radio.

Peter was a great actor and had a style all of his own. It’s great to see the photos of Peter and the cast on here from Department S and Jason King.

Thank you

Ed Cullum

Dear Tina,

Regarding your article, ‘The Scourge of AI Deception‘:

The deception aspect of AI is what really scares me. It used to be that seeing was believing, but now you cannot even trust a video or a voice recording. It makes you paranoid about everything you see online. We are entering a weird era of reality versus simulation. I am not sure how we navigate this as a society. Do you think we will need digital watermarking on everything just to prove it is real?

Geoffrey

Dear Tina,

So exciting. I am clearing through my mom’s old things (a bittersweet experience of course) and just came across this programme from when I saw Peter in Noel Coward’s Present Laughter at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton – in 1974! I was at the tender age of 12, and Peter couldn’t have been more charming and considerate to all of us stage door autograph hunters.

There was a girl in a wheelchair who everyone else was bypassing but he went straight over to her and made a big fuss of her. I always remember that.

Carol Vivienne Brady

Dear Tina,

I’ve really enjoyed reading the article, ‘Are Trolls Like These Destroying Fandom?’ The level of idiocy of some people really is beyond any sort of comprehension. They seem to think that what they’ve manufactured in their own minds is worthy of persecuting someone over. As you said, such types tend to mistake opinion for fact. They’re just cowards, not to mention sad and laughable. I’m so glad you stayed strong and have kept this wonderful website going. All power to you. Take Care.

Caroline Harrison.

Hi, Tina.

I’ve just re-read the introduction page of your book and picked up on some details I missed first time round. Your opening comment was very telling. Placing Peter’s theatrical work first, then his fans, and finally yourself, relating his loss, was a wonderful introduction to your piece.

Reading on, it struck me that there was almost ‘a path of destiny’ in how this began and, subsequently unfolded. Your humble beginnings working in video shops seemed to combine both a job and a passion in one, which very few people are ever able to enjoy. The idea for producing a magazine for the Appreciation Society seemed to have taken root, maybe from your job. Andrew Pixley coming into your story at that stage, was, clearly, the right person at the right time. I guess you’d already seen video episodes of Department S in passing along with other shows which is what gave you the idea to start the fanzine, even though, as you say, you weren’t able to see the original shows at the time of broadcast, and, as you correctly state, getting background information on the stars was more difficult then, compared with now. I understand the impact that Peter had upon you, compared with the other two cast members. That said, though, Tina, in their way, they were an indispensable part of the series, as in very different ways, they bought other dimensions in the characterizations to the stories.

You were truly fortunate in getting Andrews backing for your idea and Peter’s agent for all the material information that you needed. Reading this part of your narrative about a name for the Society was what prompted me to buy the Avengers Episode ‘ A Touch Of Brimstone’, which I really enjoyed. I was pleased that the Society took off as quickly as it did, helped in no small way by Peter’s involvement. It must have been a highlight of your life when you first time you met Peter face to face, and he gave you some invaluable material for your new venture. What a beginning to a lifelong friendship and connection. A point you make so very eloquently in your summing up of the chemistry between you was spot on, giving that you related to Peter the person, and, not, the image.

I think because you were so open-minded, in that you could relate on equal levels, was a big asset for you. You truly were a friend, beyond a friend. One, in the trust sense. He was so fortunate to have you in his life, and you have countless memories of those times, I’m sure.. Also, you were able to side step all the malicious and nasty newspaper stories, which would have meant so much to Peter.

You mention Peter not being into biographies, which fits in with Roger Langleys statement about not having Peter’s support in the booklet that he produced. In conclusion, Tina, I’m glad, as will be many others, you put this book together; that I know I’m going to enjoy reading over the coming days. I am indebted for this book which will give me a fuller rounded understanding of both Peter as a man, and, of his legacy. Your closing comment … “the Peter Wyngarde that I knew” neatly summarises the opening of this book. As Peter himself says, he was SO fortunate to have you in his corner. Hope my comments are helpful, Tina, and I’ve understood what you’ve set out to achieve with your book. I look forward to being on the journey. Take care.

George Halliwell

Superb actor of the highest quality. Peter should have been afforded the opportunity to play James Bond in many films. In interviews Peter appears to be such a kind and gentle man: Peter was certainly a Gentleman by anybody’s standards. It is heartening to know that Peter will live on forever in his film & television performances, not only for his millions of fans and admirers from my generation, but also for younger people who can watch and appreciate Peter’s beautiful contribution to our lives. God Bless Peter Wyngarde.

Dave

____________________

Hello Dave,

Peter was everything his detractors aren’t. That’s what made him great and them so filled with bile.

Tina

Good Morning,

In the 70s my father was a restaurant (La Potinière) manager in Mauritius where Peter Wyngarde came to diner with a local well known local TV person a Mr. Cantin and my father refused to let them in because Peter Wyngarde was wearing a wide open shirt instead of a dress shirt and the required tie. As we are doing a family history book, would you have by any chance any record of this incident? It did make quite a scene at the time and I think that even Paris Match in France had a piece on the incident.

Hoping to hear from you. Kind regards,

Henri Chasteau de Balyon

___________________________

Dear Henri,

Thank you for your email and interest in Peter Wyngarde.

While I know that Peter visited Mauritius a couple of times in the 1970’s (once en route to Australia), I’ve never heard the story about the incident at  La Potinière.

I have possession of all of his diaries and notebooks, so will look if he makes mention of this in any of them. I’ll of course let you know if I find anything.

With best wishes

Tina

___________________________

Thanks Tina,

I hope that you do find something in his diaries.

I am sure that Mr. Wyngarde wasn’t “amused” at the time.

My father was very strict, sometimes too strict for his own good, but I do remember him telling me that Mr. Cantin who was with Peter Wyngarde told my dad: “But Mr. Chasteau this is the man who has been named the “Best dressed man on the planet” which my dad replied “Not in my eyes, he is not!!”.

Anyway, if you don’t find anything on it, at least you would have heard it from me.

All the very best,

Henri

Dear Tina,

A very good example of how lovely Peter was occurred on this day. He didnt have a clue who I was but couldnt have been more pleased to see me and engaged in conversation as if he’d known me for years. The other woman who I wont even name was about as opposite to Peter as you could get. I wasnt even intending to take a picture of her but when she launched into a tirade of abuse towards me I decided to snap her. Ill be honest I didnt know who she was or what she was in. I certainly know who she is now and she’s left a lifelong scar on me.

I actually turned the television on late last night to see Peter in a film with Gareth Hunt amongst others. I think it was a horror. Missed the first hour so will watch it another time. And the walls came tumbling down I think it was called.

John Botton

___________________________

Hi John,

I remember Miriam Margolyes shouting out sporadically as to why there were loads of people at Peter’s table and none at hers. Now we know!

Tina

Hi,

Having read his Wikipedia I can truly say that he was the epitome of an International Man of Mystery. 

Geoff Miller

___________________________

Hello Geoff,

I wouldn’t believe Wikipedia if they told me it would go dark before morning! The lies and misinformation on there, which was inevitably copied by lazy journalists, caused a lot of stress for Peter in the last few years of his life. Whenever these things were pointed out to the conglomerate that ran and ultimately jealously guarded the PW ‘biography’, you were either banned from the Wikipedia website altogether, or abused. There are a couple of articles on our website that detail the fight that I and others had over the years to get the rubbish posted on there removed: https://peterwyngarde.uk/…/19/wikipedia-to-theheartofit/ and https://peterwyngarde.uk/2023/07/02/wiki-watch-2/

Tina

Dear Tina,

They say never meet your hero’s, but on Saturday 28th March 2015 in Westminster London myself and my best friend did and we were delighted with how nice and funny and how good he was with his fans proving the old saying wrong. That memory became even more special to us when we heard the sad news of Peter’s passing in 2018.

For me Peter Wyngarde was one of Britain’s greatest actors and also one of the most underrated, he had the incredible rare talent of being able to completely disappear into the character he was portraying so you forgot you were watching an actor playing a part or that you were watching Peter Wyngarde in something, but were watching an actual person who really existed and not a fictional character.

This can be seen best in his roles before the one that would make him internationally famous such as the Baron episode the Legion of Ammak in which he play two roles of King Ibrahim (Not the other King he was to brilliantly play later on) and an actor who also impersonates the King. What amazed me with this Wyngarde didn’t simply play the part of the King and the actor but when the actor had to play the King to near perfection he still made it different enough compared to the real King he was playing. Watching Peter Wyngarde was one of the reasons I wanted to originally become an actor I wanted to be able to do what he did play any role without the audience thinking they were watching an actor.

He was an actor who always left us wanting more Department S is a prime example of one ITC show I wanted more off. I wish they were more things for me to watch with him in, one because Peter never failed to deliver every time he was in something guest or star he never disappointed. He had the rare talent of being able to be a character actor as well as a leading man and succeeding in both. He has left a legacy which I hope will continue to be discovered by each new generation of television and film fans and his talent being continued to be appreciated.

Farewell Peter and thank you for showing me what a true actor can be capable of.

Travis Nicholls

Dear Tina,

I joined the Appreciation Society a couple months back. I loved Peter’s TV work but was mostly interested because he was one of my uncle’s best friends in Lunghua. Since then I been clearing out my mum’s stuff since she’s gone into a retirement home and found lots of interesting material. Anyone else peripherally involved? I contacted the Lunghua (society?) couple years back but no response. My uncle and mum still fondly remember Peter whom my uncle describes as ‘indestructible’.

Celia Barlow

Dear Tina,

I hired Peter to do a voice over for a corporate video (which dates this). We did it on Jersey and had a terrifically boozy lunch before going into the studio. There were 2 words he insisted on doing a specific way. Unfortunately they were both in the company name… We got through it. I treasure the script (which I wrote and he signed). To me he will always be Jason King. There are few actors (Roger Moore is one) who can lay claim to being a true icon on the time. Nuff said.

Mark Harris

___________________________

Hello Mark,

I mention him doing this voice-over in my book. For some strange reason he insisted on renewing his passport while there. It all seems like yesterday.

Tina

___________________________

Yes, I read that in your book Tina. Great job by the way. I also remember it well because my wife and mother both insisted on coming on the trip to Jersey just to meet Peter. Keep up the brilliant job keeping his memory alive.

Mark Harris

Dear Tina

Department S recently came out on BluRay in Australia and is much sought-after, I had them imported! Meanwhile his films continue to be enjoyed on Talking Pictures TV and other channels picking up new fans all the time. The Sherlock Holmes episodes will never be forgotten because of that huge fanbase.

Alistair Shailes

Hi Tina

I was a kid in the USA when the British Spy shows appeared. So I purchased DVDs of Jason King, The Avengers, Dept S, because I didn’t know if I’ve seen all the episodes. I found his music CD! All these products I purchased 20-30 years later! And I must admit, his CD, WOW, just WOW! I saw Flash in the movies and silly me didn’t know he was behind the mask till my friend pointed out several weeks later during conversation. Maybe it registered (that voice!) but didn’t sink in!

Paul T. Winkfield

Hi Tina,

I think that journalist is off his editorial rocker. I did not really know of Peter until I happened upon a news article reporting on his death. It mentioned a recent poll that placed Jason King very highly on the UK’s greatest TV shows. I was surprised because I had not heard of the show despite watching a fair share of UK TV shows that had aired in the US. I had seen him in the Avengers and Flash Gordon, but didn’t recognize the name. I looked into his story, and was intrigued enough to buy a used set of DVDs. Now i’m a huge fan!

Travis Shick

Dear Tina,

Your Peter has always been a great favourite of mine. He did some brilliant on stage, and film, “The Innocents” being my most favourite. He was superb in “Flash Gordon” as he always made a wonderful baddie.

His television work I loved too, particularly the two series when he played Jason King, and when he played Number Two in “Checkmate” – a episode of my most favourite series “The Prisoner”.

Isobel Smith

Hi Tina,

Peter will always be remembered as Jason king. That was his time and a character that stood head and shoulders above the rest. He was always great and very watchable in everything he did. And often gave even better performances in those than the ITC series he was involved in. But, for me he was always Jason. I loved his voice and his way. I don’t think he would have been sad to have been remembered for that.

Duncan Campbell

Peter had great presence. He inhabited a character from the inside of his soul.

He was totally part of a scene, reacting to other actors even when he wasn’t the main character. He was a great actor and should have been recognised as such.

Judy Lockyer

I think he had a wonderful speaking voice and manner of speech, plus he was extremely charismatic. He should have been a star.

Shawna Khan

I think he had star quality that he shared with many other actors. Each major star, or actor with the star presence has an individual personality that is uniquely alone his own,

Gary Mark Bernstein

The voice was Peter’s God given gift. Couple that with charisma and presence and you have a powerful combination. He was a great actor and could have played some very significant parts and roles.

Chris Williams

I think he had the sort of style and sophistication that only belonged to the likes of David Niven or Patrick McNee.

Walt Redden

The voice was unique. But to me it was his versatility The Baron episode being the prime example of this as it was the way he played the three characters in it. He could of easily played the King and the actor pretend.

Travis Nicholls

Hi Tina,

I discovered Peter in a photo with Barry Gibb getting the best dressed award in 1970. I’m a Bee Gees fan club member and saw the photo a couple of years ago. Peter’s face was so intriguing and handsome (but not in the conventional way) that I was curious to see his work. YouTube to the rescue. I was so impressed with his acting and persona that I wanted to know more about him. I researched on the web, joined this group, and read Tina’s lovely book. Peter deserved much more acting opportunities, recognition and fame than he received after the unfortunate incident that tainted him. I wish that I had discovered Peter’s acting legacy much sooner.

Shawna Khan

Dear Tina,

As a fan of TV and film I’m always going on about theme music and opening titles. They are so important and can make or break a series. Think of The Avengers theme by Laurie Johnson. Full of authority, purpose, drama, captivating, then light and dreamy, then back to authoritive and stern. You knew something dramatic was coming. It set you up for the programme and helped make The Avengers what it was. Same with the theme for Department S. Starts off with drama and intrigue, then tension as violins stretch your nerves in expectation, Then into the pounding beat driving home the sense of determination and authority. Just brilliant. I always loved it and listen to it on it’s own sometimes.

In contrast, there was a TV series in the late 70’s called The Racing Game which was written by successful jockey and author Dick Francis no less. The stories and concept were brilliant but the series flopped. The theme music and opening titles were dreadful and uninspiring. It didn’t get you in the mood for each episode and you made no connection with the series or had any sense of expectation anything good was about to happen. Yep, the theme music and opening titles can make or break a TV series or film.

Chris Williams

Like many, I was too young when Department S and Jason King were screened. Most likely I saw him for the first time in The Avengers (‘Epic’) in a repeat in the late Seventies. Flash Gordon didn’t do anything for me in that regard – as everyone was dubbed in Germany. In the Eighties, I bought videos each time I was in London, and probably from that time I knew him from single episodes of Jason King on “Classic TV Heaven” tapes as well as Night of the Eagle and A Touch of Brimstone.

Uwe Sommerlad (Germany)

Dear Tina,

As we welcome this New Year, it feels only fitting to pay tribute to one of the most distinctive figures ever to grace the screen and the stage.

Peter possessed a voice of remarkable timbre and authority, a diction of exquisite precision, and a command of language that turned every line into a performance in itself. Added to this was an extraordinary work ethic and a mastery of body language -every gesture deliberate, every movement expressive, every pause meaningful.

Besides of his unique qualities as a consummate actor, he was a true trendsetter whose style, presence, sensibility, and intelligence continue to inspire admiration decades on. A reminder, as year begins, that elegance, discipline, and individuality never go out of fashion.

Happy New Year!

Luis Maria Palma.

Hi Tina

I didn’t realise it was you who ran this website. You have done a fantastic job. It is jam packed with such great coverage. I am impressed.

Likewise, I am impressed with your memoir of Peter. I have bought it and dipped in. 

I have just started watching Department S from the beginning and isn’t he just fab in it? My first encounter with him was as Klytus, a great performance. I still think he is the best element of the film. That voice!

I love him in Night of the Eagle, superb.

I have wanted to champion Peter, and as I am a Reader in Film at a university, part of my job is to write journal articles, chapter, books etc. So, it was with excitement that I wrote about him as an icon of masculinity in the 60s/70s, focusing on his role as Jason King. I can’t send you a copy due to copyright etc. and it hasn’t come out yet. But when it does, and if you are interested, I can see if I can send a copy.

I looked at that auction and wish now I had bought something. Never mind.

Anyway…that is me rambling. I hope you have a smashing New Year.

With best wishes,

Steve Gerard

Dear Tina,

An unexpected story from a work colleague. He used to help Peter with his computer. He said Peter never got the hang of double-clicking. As Peter’s IT support person, he got to know him well and said he was always wonderful company and a perfect gentleman. Peter encouraged my colleague with his acting ambitions and the result was he went to drama college and subsequently got both stage and TV parts. I learned all this in a team meeting this week when everyone takes a turn to say something unusual about themselves. I feel ever so slightly closer to Peter now.

James Rigby

___________________________

Hi James,

Peter used to call your friend, “My student”. I pity him greatly having to try to teach P how to use a computer. I tried numerously, but it just wouldn’t sink in. I remember him bemoaning the fact that the screen on the computer had frozen. “Then reboot it,” I advised. “Reboot it! I’ll boot it down the f***ing garden!”

Tina

Dear Tina,

Regarding the recently issued ‘Department S’ Blu-Ray boxset a la Imprint:

Were you aware of the involvement of notorious internet troll, D** B**, with the ITC Entertained The World podcast? I find it sickening that he should be participating in something like this after all the heinous insults he and his buddies aimed at Peter. The very fact that the Facebook group he hosted (Department Wyngarde) was removed because of the disgusting lies, abuse and threats he was allowing to be posted on there should’ve been a red flag to the producers of that podcast. What were they thinking!

I personally think you should start a campaign through the Appreciation Society to boycott the boxset. I’m sure the vast majority of Peter’s fans would support you. I certainly wouldn’t have it in my collection.

Many thanks for all the great work you do.

David Lipscombe

___________________________

Dear David,

Yours is just one of a number of emails and messages I’ve received from fans who are concerned about Mr. B**’s participation in the podcast you mention above. I’ve decided to publish just your email as it, more or less, reflects the contents of all the messages I’ve received on this subject. Here is the same response I gave to perturbed members of our Facebook group:

Many of you have pointed out the involvement of a certain Dan Box in at least one of the podcasts devoted to ‘Department S’, and have requested clarification on whether he had any input vis-a-vis these commentaries etc.

As most of you are aware, Mr. B** was instrumental in recruiting a mob of vicious, foulmouthed bullies via his now debunked ‘Department Wyngarde’ Facebook group (which FB were obliged to closed down in 2019 for contravening its Harassment and Bullying Policy), and who subsequently went on to persecute and libel Thomas Bowington (Peter’s friend and agent) and me for over 5 years.

In addition to setting up several groups thereafter on Facebook and other social media platforms (one of them imaginatively entitled ‘Department Wyngarde 2), Thomas and I were sent almost 80 rabidly Antisemitic, Homophobic, Misogynistic and Ableist emails via our website in Mr. Box’s name as well as others, which not only attacked us, but Peter as well (the profanity is too strong to repeat on here, but you can see some of the [barely] printable examples here. While Thomas and I were perfectly capable of defending ourselves against these assaults, Peter was not, which made them all the more distasteful and cowardly.

I’ve known of Mr. B**’s involvement with this podcast since 2021, but I chose not to bring it to your attention for a number of reasons. Over the years, this matter has been repeatedly brought to my attention by others, but I’ve resolved to keep my counsel.

There are now calls from members of this group to boycott the boxset altogether. I will leave that up to the individual, as it’s something I don’t wish to encourage or become involved in. I have no idea if B** has had any input re. Messrs Samujha and Wiseman commentaries or not, but I’m certain that Imprint had no knowledge of B**’s shameful history.

That’s all I have to say on the subject. As far as I’m concerned, I did a Pontius Pilate on B** in 2019. I did, however, inform Mr. Samujh in writing some years ago of B**’s involvement in the aforementioned campaign of hatred – forwarding to him printouts of many of the vile emails that he and his mates had concocted, with their endless slurs and insults aimed at Peter. At least then both he and Mr. Wiseman were able to make an informed decision.

Tina

Dear Tina,

I’ve just finished reading the brilliant article, ‘How Trolls Like These Ruining Fandom‘. Trolling is the scourge of the internet. As with everything, it’s a minority spoiling things for the rest of us. You have been a very brave, strong woman to have stood up to the idiots described in this article, and I commend you for facing them down. It would’ve been a real shame if you’d given in to them and closed the Appreciation Society.

Incidentally I wonder if the moron who wrongly accused you of writing a 5 star Amazon review for your own book and harassed you mercilessly over it, did the same to Jaz Wiseman who really did write a 5 star review for his book, ‘ITC Entertained The World: The 2020 Podcasts Volume 1’ on Amazon? I expect not, as coward like that tend only to pick on women.

Long live the King!

Rebecca Spencer

Hello

My name is Darren.

I’ve just finished watching Department S, which I’m obsessed with, the best dressed crime fighting trio in television history haha, I’m reading Tina’s book atm, I just wanted to say how much I’m enjoying it and how cool Peter is and I’m looking forward to finding all his other tv shows plays and movies that are available.

Darren Smith

Hello.

I’ve just read the article, ‘Brought To Book‘ on your website regarding a ridiculous review of your excellent biography, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers‘. How can anyone dismiss a thoroughly researched, well written book of over 500 pages, simply because their own inaccurate preconceived ideas about its subject aren’t met?

Rather than its author, Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins, being “homophobic” (a libellous slur, surely!), I would suggest that the reviewer has more than a whiff of Heterophobe about him or her. What’s the point in buying a biography of a well-known personality if you’ve already made your mind up about them? Patheic!

Jay Winsor

I’m 73, Peter, and many, many of my favorite stars are gone, I feel watching them is a tribute and many times I have a glass of wine in honor, and enjoyment of seeing them at their best!

Paul T. Winkfield

Peter’s performance was excellent in every production. His voice, style, expressions and interpretation were superb. You literally could not take your eyes off him. He stole every scene. He could act without saying a word. Hugely underrated and much missed.

Eileen Took

Hello,

Really a great page about Peter Wyngarde. Happy who has such ‘fans’. It’s a pity that he is no longer with us. A friend told me that in Bolivia in 1971 many were cutting the hairstyle like Jason King.

George from Cologne

Hi Tina (if I may),

Thanks for admitting me to this wonderful group. Wyngarde is such a hero of mine, right down to my collection of silk scarves I wear to work! I’m a teacher at an international school and whenever I get a compliment from a student about a pocket square or scarf I’m wearing, I tell ’em it’s all thanks to one special man! I’m not only a fan of the Jason King years, but also as Gary Essendine in Coward’s Present Laughter. I dearly wish I’d seen him on the stage (particularly Underground in 1983). My best to you.

Paul Lynch

Hello.

I’ve just been looking at the latest article called ‘Pornography. Hang on… where’s all the gay stuff?’ Exactly. Where is it? I wonder what excuse the Gay Mafia (or didn’t they call themselves a Knitting Circle at one time?) will have about this? After all, those items clearly exist and were sold through reputable auction houses. Will they have the brass neck to accuse these sales rooms of fabricating all these things or start a hate campaign against the auctioneers who sold them?

I’ve read all the letters and other things written by Peter himself in his own handwriting which you have posted on this website. Were these idiotic trolls so full of their own self-important that they tried to suggest he was lying too? There really are some lowlifes. Were they so desperate to claim Peter as one of their own As you said to the chap who wrote the article, “Let the evidence speak for itself.”

Keep up the excellent work.

Paul Quirk

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Hello Paul,

It was Peter’s fans who were to give the title ‘Knitting Circle’ to a particularly vicious group of trolls who harassed anyone associated with this Appreciation Society between 2019 and 2013. In addition to being rabidly misogynistic, ableist and grossly Antisemitic, they hauled me over the coals – even when presenting corroborating evidence of everything contained in my book (‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers‘). All they were able offer was profanity and threats. In fact, one of them had his group page closed down by Facebook because of the libels and expletives posted on there, and their manacle website was removed by Google due to the offensive language and other obscenities it contained.

Despite all of the above, we’re still here. The book sold in large numbers. The world remains unchanged. At the end of it all, it was they who wasted 5 years of their lives obsessing over people they didn’t know and had never met.

Thanks for taking the time to write.

Tina

Dear Tina,

Just finished your remarkable biography of this wonderful actor. Bravo! It’s always my regret I never saw him on stage in Shakespeare. For me, he dwells between Burton and Olivier – maestro indeed. I recall my friend Tony Shaffer (Sleuth etc) speculating on “the edge” he could have brought to Hitchcock’s Bob Rusk character in Frenzy. We both pledged to create a character for him. One subject came close but, alas, the odious thief, time, defied us. Peter, you are greatly missed,

Michael Feeney Callan

Hello,

I really like the section on this website where you highlight all the lies, errors and half truth about Peter in the mainstream press (see ‘It Must Be True…!). Do you ever write to the papers to correct this stuff, and do they bother doing anything about it?

Keep up the excellent work.

Barry Taylor

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Dear Barry,

While The Daily Mail is something of a serial offender when it comes to published utter rubbish about Peter – including half-truths and blatant lies at times – I have to give them their due, they have had the common decency to respond to the email’s I’ve sent to them, which is more than be said for The Mirror, who have either relied with a load of unrelated law-speak (see ‘The British Press and the Web‘), or just blanked any attempts to correct their glaring errors – purposeful or otherwise. Even the jounos themselves if you contact them directly tend to blank you. They’re really pig-ignorant!

I did receive an algology from the editor of Yours Retro in March 2019 after they published a car crash article about Peter, written by a freelance journalist. They did make amends in January 2025, with a far more thoroughly researched piece; i.e. they didn’t just cut & paste the first thing they read on the Internet.

Regards,

Tina

Dear Tina,

I’ve just read Alex Thorpe’s article about someone calling them self ‘City Bookworm’ and their review of your book (see ‘Brought To Book‘).

It did read as if that person had only one interest in Peter Wyngarde, and that was his sex life. There didn’t seem to be any reference to the mass of details and information about his career or what he did with the 99.9% of his time when he wasn’t bed. I thought that the reason for anyone buying a celebrity biography was to learn about that person, not for the purpose of having your own predetermined ideas established. As Alex Thor[e said, it came across as extremely voyeuristic. Perhaps that’s why the person who wrote the ‘review’ chose not to put their real name to it.

For what it’s worth, I loved the book. It was extremely well written, and the depth of detail is extraordinary. Denialists like ‘City Bookwork’ would probably attempt to refute the wealth of stuff you have posted on the ‘site written by Peter himself, rather than accept they’ve not been barking up the wrong tree, but in the entirely wrong forest.

Bernie Strettle

Dracula was one of the best fictional creations of all time and I would have loved to see Peter’s performance. My favourite screen Dracula has to be Lugosi with a honourable mention for Christopher Lee. However, neither actor (great as they were) had Peter’s diversity. He’s the only actor that could have been James Bond and/or Doctor Who with the possible exception of Robert Powell.

Pete Kitts

Hi!

I wonder if it’s been mentioned the point about this page that the film variously known as Burn Witch Burn or Night of the Eagle is one of the best supernatural films of all times. It’s about as well made and enacted as about any film. (Actually I can think of at least two well-made supernatural films that I think are better made and better than Burn Witch Burn but that’s about it.)

I think Peter Wyngarde’s performance which is good as anything he did that I saw, and probably about as good as anything I ever saw by anybody else. Janet Blair and the other cast members were also excellent. I forgot that Peter Wyngarde also had a very small part in the movie The Innocents with Deborah Kerr, which was absolutely the best supernatural film I ever saw, the best made and the best about everything you could describe it. In such a small part there was not much to judge, but he was perfect.

So in fact Peter Wyngarde was in the two best supernatural films I ever saw. (And yes I know without anyone having to point it out to me that such proclamations are totally subjective).

Gary Mark Bernstein

Hello Tina,

I have just finished reading your book and I was so moved by your story of Peter. By the end, I cried for your loss. He was such a beautiful man and remember watching his TV series as a child, and I have been watching the reruns of Department S and Jason King.

Back in the 60s, my father was rather dapper and travelled a lot for his business as an antiques dealer. On a few occasions he was approached at airports and mistaken for Peter and asked for his autograph. My dad didn’t look like Peter, but had a great sense of humour and signed Peter’s name. He passed away in 1969 at the age of 42.

Thank you for writing your memories of Peter Wyngarde. He was such a talented man.

All the very best,

Lee Parsey

Via X:

Somewhat belatedly, I am currently reading this marvellous book by Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins – “Peter Wyngarde: A Life Among Strangers”. Actor biographies are often rather pale and lacking in depth. Something that cannot be said of this tome which is an absolute revelation and a joy.

Steve Hughes

___________________________

Thank you, Steve, for being so kind about the book. I’m so glad that you’re enjoying it. There are so many myths and lies out there about Peter, I just wanted people to hear the truth. With best wishes, Tina

___________________________

Really Tina, I can’t thank you enough for having written this book. Despite me being a fan for most of my life, there’s a mass of revelatory information within those pages that I knew absolutely nothing of! It has deepened both my knowledge of his vast career and life as well as.

Steve Hughes

Dear Tina,

Thank you for putting together all the wonderful information and pictures on this website. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed looking through everything.

Judy Lockyer

Dear Tina,

I am reading ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ which I must say I am finding absolutely enthralling. Beautifully written, Immaculately researched it captures the very essence of the man. I have long been an ardent fan of Peter Wyngarde and your book is an absolute joy to snuggle down with for night-time reading.

My Congratulations. This is the best book I have had the pleasure in reading in a very long time.

Annette McFarline-Bryant

Hi Tina,

I’ve really enjoyed reading the interviews on the website . I so would have loved to meet Peter. He has played some really brilliant roles over the years. Particularly on 60s and 70s television. But my absolute favourite role of his has to be General Klytus in Flash Gordon. This definitely showed that despite wearing a gold mask, he was still able to portray and exude pure evil with his voice alone. Even though he was speaking very calmly.

Jim Bond

Hi,

I am going to get this book (Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers) on a truly wonderful stylish actor who deserved more recognition from his peers than he got. He had a wonderful way with words and wit. As a kid, Department S and Jason king, were a must watch and always will be, Peter will long live in my memory always, for the pleasure he gave millions. Thank you.

Mark Nicholas.

Dear Tina,

Just finished your book took ages but very interesting well written. Always been a fan of Peter so glad you were both so happy.

Tony Douglas

I’m so jealous, I would have loved to have met Peter. I found him to be stylish, mesmerising, entertaining, funny, a great actor and devilishly sexy… Love you Peter!

Susan Wilde

Why on earth has nobody thought of making a film of Department S. We need a bit of a lift in these sombre times and this series deserves a film spin off. We already have Mission Impossible we have had The Saint (maybe a bad example to support my case) The Avengers (see previous comment), but this could work.
As mentioned on this site the theme is brilliant. The premise is wonderful, and if this could be pulled together well and with respect to the original series it could be a winner.

Alan Burrows

Peter Wyngarde as Jason King, Joel Fabiani as Stewart Sullivan and Rosemary Nichols as Annabelle Hurst: Could these actors be replaced?

Replies:

Wouldn’t be worth watching without Peter in it. He WAS Department S!! Diane Brierley

It’s a period piece it wouldn’t work it wouldn’t do justice to the original. Gary Powell

It may end up having a satirical or campy feel like Austin Powers. Shawna Khan.

Yes. who will take on the role – especially Peters??? Dave Lighthouse Johnson.

Sadly it would no doubt end up like the rest of the film versions or the remakes, totally shocking and an insult to the original, I can’t think of a decent one of the afore mentioned, perhaps with the exception of “Return of the Saint”, and I’m not sure if you can class that as a remake, and who would star in such a project is another big problem, of course that’s only my opinion. Mark Cooper.

Noooo! Who could possibly replace Jason? Lol. On second thoughts, if they must do a remake then maybe Dominic West? Lindy Lindy

I’m not sure I could cope with a film without Peter and the original cast. The TV series just had a magic about it. After that god awful Randall and Hopkirk remake with Reeves and Mortimer I felt positively queezy. Sophie Strange

Definitely. The originals are best not revamped – plenty of other entertainment around. I’ve never really gotten into any of the remakes eg R&HD, Return of the Saint or even the New Avengers. The original was perfect imho, lol. Lindy Lindy

Only Robert Downey JR could play Jason King…Stewart and Annabelle not sure? It would need to be made by a true fan or it definitely wouldn’t work. It can work, other wise Mission Impossible films wouldn’t work…The Avengers and The Saint were dreadful because they tried to move away from what made these iconic series great…Maybe ex ITC people who were very young in the 60s? Chris Oten

No one could play Jason King other than the man himself. It would be a pale imitation. Freddie Valentine

Best left alone I think, whilst I enjoyed Department S and the Jason King series, there is no one that can replace Peter. David Staniforth

IMHO, a shame that they did not do a ‘spin off’ film at the time with the original cast. Adam Bigg

I know what you mean but I hope it never happens. You mentioned the Saint and the Avengers as poor examples and someone else mentioned Randall and Hopkirk as another one. I’m going to add the Prisoner to that list and I think we all know any similarities between the Mission Impossible films and TV shows are spurious. This sort of thing has a history of not working and even detracting from the originals (Doctor Who) so I pray that they leave Department S alone. Additionally there is only one King. Pete Kitts

Tom Hardy would be perfect as Jason King. Derek Smith

No not for me. There are no talented actors, scriptwriter or directors out there to do the series any justice. And they would probably destroy Jason Kings character by making him a complete joke. Nobody can play that role better than Peter Wyngarde. It would be a mess in my opinion like all the other remakes. Paul Trundley

Hi Tina,

I bought your book last week. By coincidence, it was delivered, whilst the opening credits for Jason King were playing on the TV. Just been reading your website. I had no idea Peter was into shooting. I used to do Clay shooting and I had a shotgun licence years ago. I owned an over and under Beretta. Peter had some nice guns.

I’m absolutely loving the book, it’s wonderful. I’m learning so much about Peter that I never knew and it’s completely changing my understanding of him. I can’t stop reading. I’m already up to the chapter entitled, ‘Masks’ and there was another spooky coincidence last. I went to bed and read and there is a reference in it to a Jason King episode, ‘Flamingos Only Fly On Tuesdays’. That was the episode I’d just watched on Rewind TV a few hours earlier!

I must admit to my shame that I only every saw Peter in the context of Department S and Jason King. I realise now that he was so much more than that. I think we would have got on very well and been great friends, I hope so anyway. I feel robbed that he is gone now and I’ll never meet him. Incidentally, a friend of mine Neil Hendry who is the nephew of the late actor Ian Hendry contacted Peter a few years ago as they both appeared in Crossfire (1967) which Neil has put on his YouTube channel, I’m sure you have seen it. Neil was in touch with Peter and corresponded with him providing him with a copy of the film as he hadn’t seen it in years. He said he was wonderful and I was so jealous!

Chris Williams

Hi Tina,

Visiting my brother in London and thought you’d enjoy the beginnings of his Wyngarde shrine!

Jez Fielder

___________________________

I have a similar shrine’ . Tony Richards

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Steve Cannell

Dear Tina,

Have been watching and recording Department S on Rewind TV. I think Department S ,which was made back to back with Randall and Hopkirk, deceased are by far the best of the adventure series ITC produced. Department S episodes are essentially locked room mysteries, with elements of the surreal.

It is greatly amusing that once the more prosaic detective work is exhausted they normally consult Jason King as to how he would have solved the mystery in one of his books. The character seems part Oscar Wilde, part Sherlock Holmes and part Noel Coward with a bit of bond thrown in and there seems to me to be an element of self parody that I think would have been knowing self parody even back then.

Ian Powell

Dear, Dear Peter,

That voice. That movement. That wit and intelligent dialogue treatment from you. In those beautiful costumes and design as Klytus you inspired me to become an actor.

Now older I’m reading Tina’s book. And John Walsh’s ‘Flash Gordon: The Official Story of the Film’.

Silly culture and archaic laws hurt you deeply. However it is the people who go first that shape culture and make it safer and happier for those who come later. Thank you for paving the way.

Actually in essence the film Flash Gordon paved the way for sexuality and a gender fluid world, which I believe you were aware of, even then. So thank you. I wish I’d known you. We could have been friends.

Klytus deeply inspired me. Every actor knows the power and difficulties of ”mask” work, and you gave a masterclass. The attention to detail, “the handkerchief” sniff, even as a boy enthralled me. I did nick that playing a nefarious character myself,. Yes, I sniffed a hanky…

Onwards to a world that works for everybody.

Love. Ashley Artus. X (Actor – ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows’, ‘Judge Dredd’).

Dear Tina,

I found myself thinking of Peter yesterday with the death of Kenneth Cope (12.09.24). Of all the ITC series that we grew up with, The Avengers, Department S and Randall and Hopkirk were the best. All three succeeded because they were well written (locked room mysteries) and because of the quality of the performances. There was a lot of wry comedy in Department S, mostly provided by Peter whose performance seemed to mix Steed/James Bond with a Dash of Noel Coward and Oscar Wilde.

Ian Powell

Hello,

I found your comprehensive article regarding the Night Conspirators play online and was hoping you would know where we could watch it please? My Dad remembers watching the play on TV in 1962 and he’d love to watch it again! Many thanks,

Katie Langen

____________________________

Hi Katie,

Until last year, the play was available on Network Entertainment’s online channel but, alas, the company ceased to exist as of last year. Network had released several volumes of the Armchair Theatre sereis, of which ‘Night Conspirators’ was a part, but hadn’t got around to issuing that particular episode when they went out of business. Hopefully, some other company will pick it up at some point. Keep an eye on our website just in case.

Tina

en los años 70’s aca en argentina, peter wyngarde era muy conocido por las series Departmento S y Jason King,en ese entonces las series inglesas competian con las estadounidenses,mis preferidas eran las britanicassaludos desde Buenos Aires.

Gonzalo Martin Alverez

Translation: In the 70s here in Argentina, Peter Wyngarde was well known for the series Department S and Jason King, at that time the English series competed with the American ones, my favourites were the British, greetings from Buenos Aires.

Hello,

I re-read G***n G******’s offending obit* last week after watching Dept S. It was pretty nasty but being banned from this web site hardly seems a sufficient motive for writing it.

Fredrich

*The Guardian – 18.01.18

____________________________

Hi Fredrich,

We’ve spoken about this earlier on this page, so maybe it would be best to redirect you to this article which will explain what lead up to the publication of the ‘obituary’ and what has happened since. Wikipedia: To TheHeartOfIt

Tina

Hi

I am writing to let you know about my YouTube channel called Retropia featuring the full series of Department S and now Jason King in HD quality for the first time:

https://www.youtube.com/@Retropia-zv9ix

I have been a huge fan of Peter Wyngarde’s for many years having first enjoyed his work as a teenager watching his Klytus in Flash Gordon, No.2 in The Prisoner and of course as Jason King. I also very much enjoyed reading A Life Amongst Strangers, I couldn’t put it down! He had such a magnetic presence that stood out in whatever he appeared in, but he was also a very accomplished actor. It will always be a sadness that I did not get to meet him.

I realised that a lot of his television work is quite difficult to find, especially in higher quality. I started with the entire series of Department S and am just about to finish uploading every episode of Jason King – am just finishing work on the last two EP25 and EP26. Each episode has been carefully remastered by myself, correcting colours, definition and then upscaled to HD so they now hopefully look good on large screen televisions.

Peter also features in an episode of The Baron I recently uploaded (another classic ITC series) – Episode 10: The Legions of Ammak, which really showed his skill as an actor as this was a very different character to Jason King.

I very much hope that you enjoy my Retropia channel and find it a fitting tribute to Peter and many fantastic shows of yesteryear that are still so rich and entertaining today.

Mark West

Hi!

I’m new to this group. I recently joined because… my Grandmother worked in a Co-Op in Birmingham. When Peter was in digs in Rep, this was his local shop. My Nan recognized him and they would often talk, this led to them daily going to a Café for a Tea. Apparently he used always ask after me although I never met him. It was just their time.

Tal E. Shaanti

1. There is a genuine archaeological expedition being planned to find King Arthur’s sword, Excalibur (true story).
2. It’s time for Jason King to return to save us from all the crime and violence going on in the world right now.

Voila! Jason King Arthur!

Steve Cooper

Hi Tina,

Regarding the forthcoming ‘No.2 action figure from Wandering Planet Toys:

Brilliant. And he IS Jason Wyngarde! John Byrne, his artist creator, admitted it. Such an intercontextual accolade proves Peter’s popularity and instant global recognisability then, now and forever! Immortality in a sense. Though not in the sense we’d like!

Derek Stewart

Re. Peter’s song, ‘Rape’:

So offensive in so many ways now. But actually deconstructs some of the nastiness in a disarming fashion. Creates so much dissonance between honesty and good behaviour that only reasoned people should be allowed access.

Andy Howe

Find information about this song and the Peter Wyngarde album HERE

I do really, really like the album , but find this song difficult to listen to.

Bryan Gerrard Longworth

I skip it whenever I play the album. Sadly, the track overshadows some bona-fide gems.

Mick Cantone

As Peter once said of the song, “There are many types of rape. There’s the rape of countries, of cultures and of minds. It’s telling that some people’s minds are so limited that they can only conceive of one type.”

Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins

Sadly, the song doesn’t really illustrate that point clearly.

Mick Cantone

Why should it? I take it as literary criticism with the skill of someone who has experienced the darker side of the ambiguity of human nature.

Deepinder Singh Cheema

I think the entire album is a work of genius and the track ‘Rape’, like it or not, is what made it so talked about. It’s clearly, to my ears, tongue in cheek. It’s interesting to read Peter’s thoughts in the sleeve notes of the reissue, where he says people take things so literally, and while of course rape is horrible, you can’t get into any kind of subject unless you make a joke of it. He then pointed out about how people ended up being gagged due to things being banned – how right he was. Speak about a subject now that people might decide they find offensive, it can literally cost you your job and leave you ostracised for daring to even bring it up.

James Gaden

Nonsense the track means the album is remembered for all the wrong reasons.

Raynard Toombes

Nonsense, the track Rape is at best challenging to these times, there are some timourous feelings which abound your get stronger stuff in the Bible and works of the bard not to mention the Greek underworld. I do like the drumming and production on Rape, All in all a great evenings entertainment.

Deepinder Singh Cheema

Hello,

My name is Peter March and I was born in Portsmouth in 1947. I studied Architecture and Design during the 60’s with a lot of travel to London during 1965 and 1966. As a born rebel with a cause I did a “runner” in 1967 and came to Sydney for a few months, still here !!  Although I have a business in Sydney my real love is for NZ and it’s getting very close for the final “runner”!

As it was for a lot of blokes of my age, the sixties were years of great adventure. Music and clothes, entertainment and travel plus sexy Jaguar “E” Types to drool over when my weekly pay was ten quid a week! However I think a pint was ninepence and a wimpy burger, hell lets not go there or I will think about poor Dudley Moore making burgers in “Bedazzled”.  

Television was so important with all the new and exciting shows, John Steed and the Avengers of course. TW3 and of course Pete and Dud. However in spite of all the stars and shows I always remember Peter Wyngarde as a hero, when to be young one needed heroes. At that time I was taken with a TV series called “It’s Dark Outside” and a new star was being seen in the shape of Oliver Reed. I loved the show and the popular song “Where Are You Now” by Jackie Trent.  

Peter Wyngarde was head and shoulders above the rest. A stunning actor who made each role so full of life. I will never forget him in “A Tale of Two Cities” and the memory stays with me. As Jason King he made life bearable in unbearable Australia in the late 60’s. Australia was still a 50’s and sometimes a 30’s society in those times and to watch Peter portray a character beyond the typical Aussie appreciation was just fabulous. Now we have reached the new century and all those Actors who had great voices and diction have gone, replaced by Hugh Grant !  No thanks. We have old mumbler Russell Crowe leading the charge of new hopefuls, I think not !!  Even James Robertson Justice looked and sounded like a man even if he was a bit of a ham.  

With my sincerest wishes, .  

Peter March

Superb actor of the highest quality. Peter should have been afforded the opportunity to play James Bond in many films. In interviews Peter appears to be such a kind and gentle man: Peter was certainly a gentleman by anybody’s standards. It is heartening to know that Peter will live on forever in his film & television performances, not only for his millions of fans and admirers from my generation, but also for younger people who can watch and appreciate Peter’s beautiful contribution to our lives. God Bless Peter Wyngarde.

Dave

I’d loved you, dear Peter, from the age of ten when you first appeared as Jason King in Department S. Stayed faithful to your memory til his death. Thanks for all your kind thoughts and letters over the years. Much love.

Erica P.

Peter Wyngarde was one of the finest classical actors. Loved from the first time I saw him on TV as Sydney Carton in A Tale of Two Cities. Superb Oberon in A Midsummer Nights Dream too, and in Duel of Angels at the Apollo Theatre. A lovely man.

Kristl T.

Tina,

I have just finished Peter’s biography. It’s unbelievably touching and undoubtedly written with loyalty and love. As someone who has experienced caring for a sick loved one until the very end and being by their side until they passed, I could feel Tina’s pain and stress.

No one could have given more than Tina did in her love for this sweet and sensitive man in the time that they were together.

You were a loving tribute to him Tina. Fate was gracious in bringing you both together x

Stephanie Harpin

Hi Tina,

Regarding the article, ‘Gaming With Jason King‘:

Fan-blooming-tastic! And the entire ‘yarn’ was great. And I’m SOOOO happy that his velvet came through ‘undefelted’ (if there is such a thing – there is now!)! I must be a sad case, but it transported me back fifty odd years! Truly ‘FAB’!

Derek Stewart

____________________________

Hello Derek,

So glad you liked it, Derek. I thought it was something a bit different; a fun article and, it was created by people outside our group to show how fondly Peter, and the character of Jason King, is remembered.

Tina

____________________________

Tina,

I enjoyed it because it was ‘just right’: just silly enough, just entertaining enough, just knowledgeable enough, just… ‘Goldilocks Porridge’ enough! Ha ha. Enjoyable hokum – which was ITC’s forte.

Oh, just so you know what you already know, Peter (if I may be so familiar!) was and still IS so universally admired and loved by all (except the odd numpty who love to hate, who hate people who are loved, and who probably hate themselves – the last part being fair enough!) that I honestly have hardly ever heard anyone say anything bad about him (bar the odd lesser hurtful ‘urban myth’ that I set them straight on, as far as I can). And I am an ‘ITC Anorak’ who converses with numerous people on that subject (and their programmes and stars) virtually every day, so I know how well respected he is. In fact, the only person who gets more plaudits and is remembered more fondly, in my experience, is the late, great Sir RGM – Roger Moore (who I received a fan email FROM!). Signed photos of both legends – Roger and Peter (the latter of which you had Peter sign many a long yonk ago!) – loom large over my right shoulder in my office (along with dozens of others, I have to say, such as Tony Curtis, Patrick Allen – whose wife Sarah Lawson sadly died just months ago – Ian Ogilvy… Yes, an anorak!). Take care, and keep up the good work.

Derek

Hi Tina,

I have just (3 days ago) bought your biography of Peter and I am already more than halfway through. When it arrived it was a whopping creature bigger than I expected but well worth the money. You have done a thorough research on Peter’s background and it’s wording is clear and concise.

I’ve just reached chapter 111 (Broken Wings) which I will start tomorrow. This biography is full of wit, some sadness but a lot of love. There have been some bits in it that made me smile such as Peter not getting on with the internet (I have an old friend like that, she’s says “computers don get on with her”).

Even though I’m just into the second half of the book I can see that you were his loving champion and that Peter was a very lucky man to have you in his life.

Stephanie Harpin

Dear Tina,

Regarding fans favourite tracks from Peter’s album: I like them all, for one thing or another – even the non-PC ones. LOL. But my favourite, if pushed into naming one, is maybe Jenny Kissed Me – I love the delight and surprise in his voice, like a teen whose unrequited love has suddenly become as requited as requited can be, before possibly losing that fragile love as he cries over her as requited may be getting unrequited again! Ooh, hold on, hold on, I’m listening to it now (on the CD that you kindly had Peter personally sign for me many, many, MANY years ago!) and have just realised (after listening thousands of times! LOL) that Jenny Kissed Me segues straight into The Way I Cry Over You, making it seem like the one song! So I suppose it’s the latter song I prefer. Beautiful acting/singing.

Just to say that I came across Peter by chance when my daughter was a baby (she’s 25 next week) was up around 6am I day and started watching Jason King on Granada+ (no longer available) and I’ve been a HUGE fan ever since,keep up the good work,

Richard Clegg

Dear Tina,

Peter was a pal of mine in the 70s when we were neighbours in Kensington. A very funny, friendly guy who was wonderful company. I miss him. Greatly underrated as an actor. He was excellent in Night of the Eagle. RIP.

Stephen Gilchrist

Dear Tina,

I was thinking a couple of days ago of the Prisoner 50th Anniversary event at Portmeirion when my mate, John Uttley and I met you, Peter and Thomas (Bowington) at the Village Hotel. It was such a wonderful weekend, you guys we’re wonderful company, I’ll never forget your kindnesses. Truly one of the most glorious times I’ve ever spent, Peter was great and all those in attendance we’re treated to a very special time. A time to treasure. Hope you and Thomas have a bright and beautiful future, your passionate nature’s are a shining testimony to a great man who gave us all extra twinkles from the most extraordinary star. He was a true gentleman.

Christian James

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Hello Christian,

It’s so nice to hear from you. I was just thinking about the event in Portmeirion, and how happy we all felt the, little knowing what was just around the corner. At least such lovely memories of being with Peter and having the opportunity to meet people like John and yourself, helps get Thomas and I through the bad times, of which there’s been many. Bless you!

Tina and Thomas

Hi Tina,

My signed PW photos, now hanging proudly on my wall in my home.

Chris Honey

Tina,

‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ is a fabulous book Tina. A real tribute and testament to the memory of fabulous Peter and all that he did xx

Ian Kelland

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Thanks Ian. That means a lot, because you knew him for a long time. I just hope he’d approve.

Tina

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It’s a difficult one Tina. Peter would have wanted to be very discreet over details of his life but how can you tell his story without telling his whole story? I’m sure he’ll be far beyond discretion now & very touched with what you wrote in your book. The overall thing that touched me with your book was the respect you had for Peter. Who was, evidently, a celebrity who the press, unfairly, dragged through the mud. Love & Light to Peter 

Ian Kelland

Dear Tina,

In one of my JFK moments, I know where I was when I heard the news that Peter had passed away. I now live about thirty feet from where I was when I heard it on my car’s wireless (radio, for all you youngsters)! And what a WONDERFUL tribute Radio Scotland gave him in the bulletin – it took over a minute to get through! I know that doesn’t sound much, but for a three minute ‘on the hour’ news bulletin (including weather), it was very nice of them. But deserved. Peace to him, and bless you all.

Derek Stewart

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Hello Derek.

Radio Scotland interviewed Thomas (Bowington) on 18th January, and Radio Ulster did a piece about Peter’s life and career on the same day as part of their Arts Show Programme.

Tina

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Hi Tina,

Quite right as well. He deserved all the plaudits he got – and more. But David McCallum – the legendary Scottish actor from UNCLE – barely had a mention in the UK news – I listened to them all (maybe because he died the same time as Sir Michael Gambon, who had most of the headlines – and fair enough, because he was good as well). McCallum had lots of mentions in the news here in Scotland, of course. By the way, McCallum had a Scottish accent in real life – and even his Illya Kuryakin had a Scottish twang! Yet another one of my lifelong favourites gone. And recently Glynis Johns, David Soul… Such is life, I’m afraid!

Derek Stewart

Hi Tina,

Much fun was to be had a few days ago* when I read the following post by someone called Rosemary H*** regarding Peter’s turn as Number 2 on a social media group for The Prisoner: “Creepy in everything he acted in as far as I am concerned”, so I replied to her asking if she’d preferred the Lawrence Olivier directed version of ‘Duel of Angels‘ that had toured the UK in the late 1950s, or the Robert Helpmann adaptation that premiered on Broadway in 1960?

I also asked where she’d seen ‘Mother Adam‘, ‘Night Conspirators‘ and ‘Pick-Up Girl‘, etc. and what her impression was of the television presentations of ‘As You Like It’ in March 1953, ‘A Tale of Two Cities‘ (1957) and the 1964 series, ‘Rupert of Henzu’.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she replied.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” I responded. “You appeared to be implying that you’d seen EVERYTHING Peter Wyngarde had acted in.” Needless to say she vanished without trace. I doubt very much that anyone is surprised to hear this, or to learn that the sum total of her knowledge regarding Peter’s body of work amounts to nothing more than a couple of episodes of The Avengers, Department S and, of course, his appearance in The Prisoner.

What a ridiculous little woman.

Alex Thorpe

*This email was received on 13.01.24

Hi Tina,

I got your book for Christmas and just finished reading it earlier today  (31.12.23). It was a treat to read something different about Peter than the usual rubbish in the press.

Paul Beachcroft

Regarding the article, ‘Department S vesus Jason King‘:

A lot to digest in the blog, with some (ahem) “interesting view points”! I have to go for Dept S with the strong supporting cast, but it’s close being 51% /49%. I watch both with equal pleasure. The Man From X is my fav (and I own the Snakeskin Jacket from that episode!).

Rick Blackman

I knew Cyril Frankel very well, we always said he was the kindest, wisest man we ever met. When he sadly passed at 96, there were lots of photos from actors, many expressing thanks for his professional help and mentoring. Cyril spoke many times of Peter Wyngarde, and always said what a true professional he was and loved working with him (everyone together for a period has a few artistic differences of course!)

Cyril was allowed to take a memento from his time working on the ITC shows. He chose a print of the Department S episode, ‘Fish Out of Water’, I gave this director’s spool to Henry Cobbold (who is a real film buff) at Knebworth House, to have a look at it and see if still works. Henry penned Cyril’s autobiography “Eye to Eye”.

Tim Piercy

I’ve been reading with interest the various comments on your website regarding the Donald Spoto biography, ‘Otherwise Engaged – The Life of Alan Bates’ and the absolute drivel that he wrote about both Alan and Peter Wyngarde.

I knew Alan very well and I can say on authority that Spoto’s book wasn’t researched properly. There were many people who were close to Alan who Spoto didn’t even bother speaking to because all he wanted to talk about was his sexuality. I’m not surprised that Peter W. was so angry at the way he was treated by this author. I can’t tell you how pleased I am that you’ve published the truth* in Peter’s own words and written in his own hand.

A.S. Stevenson

*Read Peter’s thoughts on Spoto and his own explanation as to the true nature of his ‘relationship; with Alan Bates, here and here.

Jason King Boxset from Umbrella Entertainment.

This set is a thing of beauty, far superior to the UK Network release. Even comes with a repro ITC brochure.

Darren Brown

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The shameful thing on Umbrella’s part was that at the time of release this was not as heavily marketed as previous releases. This release even failed to hit long range release lists and hit the shops with heavy surprise. I had heard that since it was essentially

a surprise release, many collectors did not know until either they saw it on the shelf or found out too late when they were taken off the shelves. A very good release though and beautifully presented for one of the “16mm club”. I still have mine from the first day of release.

Adam Lonsdale

Sadly I have to agree with Peter himself, who said, solo Jason King would never be as good as Department S…which I have to agree, he was right.

Chris O-Ten

Viavision have reissued Jason King with the special features from both the Network and Umbrella sets. Click here for info.

James Helyer

Hi!

I’m new to this (Facebook) group. I recently joined because my brother and I only discovered Peter Wyngarde on YouTube this summer. Department S was a suggestion after watching his Avengers episode. And what a find he was! Wish I had known about him sooner. So I bought your book via Amazon, found Hellfire Hall website plus the Facebook group last night and am anxious and excited to learn, explore and be a part of this community.

Cindy Adams

Nice to meet you Cindy (you know what I mean).

This is a fab group of Mr Wyngarde fans. A great group of like minded people. There are a couple of episodes of The Avengers which Peter was in. I assume you saw ‘A Touch of Brimstone’ which is the B&W episode. I think this is a lot of people’s favourite episode & it actually inspired Stan Lee’s Hellfire Club in the X-men comics. I’m being kind, his Hellfire Club was a total rip but he also loved Peter, so it’s cool. He loved him so much there was a Marvel comic called Jason Wyngarde, which came out in the late 60’s/early 70s. But, sorry, I’ve gone off on a tangent. I only found out about this very recently and was all “Aha, that explains a lot & is utterly brilliant”. The second episode of The Avengers is a colour one called “Epic”, it’s Mrs Peel & John Steed one again, battling an over the top & on form Mr Wyngarde. He’s a washed up old actor. Of course, it’s fantastic, it’s The Avengers. He was in a lot of TV shows including The Prisoner & one of his great later performances is in one of the Sherlock Holmes series, the one starring Jeremy Brett “Tittle for tattle”. Oh, just so, oh. I know you get it. 

Steve Zala

Hi Tina,

I was absolutely delighted to hear that that highly controversial conviction against Peter dating from the mid 1970s has finally been overturned by the UK government. The press over here in the States were already questioning its legitimacy way before the Home Office made their decision in July of ’23. Andrew Stuttaford wrote in the National Review back in February 2018:-

“…although the reality may have been less clear-cut than the newspaper headlines after Wyngarde’s conviction liked to suggest.”

It’s desperately sad that these revisions are only now being made when they really should’ve been done during Peter’s lifetime, but then time has always been the ultimate teller of truths. Just keep fighting the good fight, dear lady, and don’t allow the naysayers to grind you down.

Regards,

Matt Turner, Columbus – a lifelong Wyngarde fan

Dear Tina,

What a super duper surprise to find an appreciation society for one of our very best actors.

I have been a fan since seeing him way back in the 1960s in Night of the Eagle and followed his career without pause enjoying every performance. Loved him in Jason King even if it was very campy and OTT, but what great entertainment. Just the stuff to blow away all the cares. And how scrumptious he always looked in his flares and furbelows. And that moustache and hairy chest!

On the serious side I battled my way to the box office to get tickets for The King and I in 1973, and enjoyed every minute. I even met and spoke with him once. I was on the way to the Odeon cinema, Kensington, and he was cleaning his Bentley Continental. He was so sweet and charming when I said “Hello” and mentioned how much I enjoyed his performances; so natural and unaffected.

I caught a glimpse of him last year in a programme about screen cads and he looked as gorgeous.

Jill Basten

Dear Tina.

I hope you don’t mind me messaging.

My dad, who passed away seven years ago, was a big Peter Wyngarde fan. He was brought up with the 60’s shows like The Avengers, The Champions and of course Department S. When these shows re-emerged on the Sky channel Bravo (I believe PW would present some of these, or appeared in some regard) in the 90’s my dad and I would have great fun watching them together, he’d tell my about his favourite shows and we’d watch for familiar faces popping up early in their careers (Donald Sutherland seemed to make the rounds through most of these shows).

Of these of course were Department S and Jason King. Dad (as do I) loved a scene-stealer and loved Jason King, and we’d think it the best thing ever when PW turned up in other shows (The Avengers being our favourite, and he livened up the episode of The Champions he was in), and we’d both walk around the house saying Fancy! to each other.

Anyway, one Christmas I managed to acquire a copy of Peter Wyngarde’s album on CD, which he absolutely loved and got pride of place in his collection. He’d listen to it often and would always tell me about it when he did  As mentioned, my dad is no longer with us and every so often I feel I have to let go of something that I would have kept a year ago including, sadly, the CD.

Stuart Rich

Below: from Peter’s trailer for Sky channel, Bravo – first screened on 24th July, 1995 

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Hello Stuart,

I was desperately sorry to hear that your Dad is no longer with us. However, I was delighted to learn that watching the re-runs of Department S and The Avengers together had brought you both such pleasure and made some special memories for you.

Do Take Care!

Tina

Dear Tina,

Regarding the re. issue of ‘Night of the Eagle’ on Blu-ray in Australia: I’ve had the DVD for many, many years, and watch it periodically, but I STILL watch it every single time it comes on TV (which, admittedly, is far too seldom for such a classic!) because it’s great to know that other people are viewing it at the same time, and are glorying in the communal chills it surreptitiously and inexorably delivers to the spine!

If anyone reading this hasn’t seen it, buy the DVD. You will NOT be sorry!

It shows Peter at his best, in a multifaceted portrayal of a sceptic in all things supernatural who slowly comes to comprehend that there ARE entities beyond our ken! Entities that some people can conjure up – but not necessarily control!

Derek Stewart

Brilliant!

For better or worse, Peter Wyngarde will be remembered for the “character” of Jason King – a character whose suaveness and “way with the ladies” have become shorthand for that brief period when the mainstream of popular culture appropriated – and vulgarised – certain aspects of swinging London and the hippy/groovy lifestyle of half a decade before. I would suggest that it was his great skills as an actor that allowed him to inhabit this role with such aplomb. Compare/contrast with say Tony Curtis and Roger Moore (both fine actors on their day) in “The Persuaders” who were utterly stiff and unconvincing.

Peter committed to that part with astonishing success; I would also suggest – however it looks through the prism of time – that he became a kind of feminist icon. I recall a brief period when almost every other suburban kitchen seemed to have a picture/poster of Jason King somewhere – usually in a leather catsuit – whose attentive, soulful eyes and cat-like physique seemed to offer everything to a woman that she wasn’t currently getting. Is it any coincidence that the women’s liberation movement hit a kind of peak during the Jason King years? The defiant act of pinning Jason to the wall (or in one instance I heard, the bedroom ceiling) was a simple statement that men needed to change in some fairly fundamental ways; unlike, say, James Bond – loved more by men than women – this was a character who Peter suggested actually liked women on many levels; was attentive to them – who dressed as carefully as them – to please them and himself of course – and sought a significant connection with them above and beyond sex. That was really powerful stuff circa 1970.

T.J.

Brilliant website great job.

Shelly Hodgson

Dear Tina,

I just wanted to say how amazing it was to see you, Peter and Sam J. Jones having a laugh together in the ‘Life After Flash’ documentary. I know that Peter and Sam were great friends, so it was fitting that S.J.J. should write the foreword for your book.

I saw Sam at an event a few weeks ago and mentioned to him that I’m a big Wyngarde fan and a member of the Appreciation Society. He mentioned you, saying what a lovely lady you are.

All the best then.

Rich Garton

Hi Tina,

I’m so delighted to see this website is thriving. I used to be a member of your Facebook group and, to my shame, also a member of the Department Wyngarde group, but when the latter threw open its doors to a gang of foul mouthed bigots and troublemakers I felt so sickened that I left social media altogether. Can’t tell you how glad I was to hear that F.B. saw fit to remove it for breaching their bullying and abuse rules.

Keep your head up. Rest assured that the people who lied and misrepresented themselves for the purposes of encouraging a witch hunt will eventually be held to account. Karma inevitably ends up tapping people like that on the shoulder when they least expect it.

Long Live The King!

Gary D.

Dear Tina,

I agree entirely with Trevor McNulty [See previous email]. It must be wonderful to know that the tittle-tattlers, muckrakers and purveyors of all the unconfirmed crap about Peter Wyngarde online and in the ‘papers are shrinking into rubbery rags like deflated balloons. People are all too eager to repeat the rumours and hearsay they read online without giving a moments consideration as to whether it’s true or not. I imagine these same people would protest long and loud if they were to find themselves the target of gossip, and yet they’re perfectly happy to do it to someone else.

Keep up your exceptional work,

Carl Johnson

Dear Ms. Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Over the past few months I’ve slowly but surely been going through this amazing website and acquainting myself more fully with Peter and his work. I can only thank you for sharing so much of his life with us, his fans. For years he has been appallingly misrepresented by the press here in the UK and latterly online. The fact that you have posted so many original documents and pieces of his writings, the vast majority of them in his own hand, has helped to dispel the malicious rumours and myths about him. You should be commended for not just saying “This” or “That” is untrue and expecting us to take your word for it, you’ve actually provided the evidence to back it up.

Whilst on that subject, some months ago I read a review of your book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ (a magnificent read, by the way), in which the person writing it bemoaned the fact that you hadn’t included a copy of Peter’s birth certificate within its pages. Well, I’ve read countless biographies and autobiographies over the years but I can’t bring to mind a single one that contains such a document. Isn’t the fact that you have added a Companion page to this website displaying many of the documents and letters referred to in the book (in addition to those mentioned previously) not enough? Again, I know of no other author that has been so diligent and honest. Perhaps if authors such as Donald Spoto had been as equally conscientious when writing his Alan Bates biography[1] (and it’s readers less willing to take his word as so utterly unimpeachable), Peter Wyngarde wouldn’t have been forced to spend his finally years being maligned and gossiped about by misguided scandalmongers.

Do keep up your excellent work. With regards,

Trevor McNulty

[1]: ‘Otherwise Engaged: The Life of Alan Bates’.

See also, You’ve Read The Book, Now Read It In Peter’s Own Words

Dear Tina,

Peter and I were good friends back in the day but had a bit of a falling out some years ago over a silly misunderstanding and, sadly, didn’t sort it out before he passed, but I tried as you know.

You were obviously a true and loyal friend, partner and soulmate to him. I am happy you were there for him. Loved the book and congratulations on that achievement. Peter was one of the funniest people I have ever known. Sad we didn’t patch things up as we could have had a few more laughs.

Regards,

Mike Hewitson

Well done Tina on the success of your amazing book.

I met Peter when I was a child when he was in Leeds playing in ‘The King and I’. My father took me to the stage door. He was just a lovely man and somewhere I still have his autograph.

Steve Hirst

I made a Peter out of Lego, although I have been told it looks more like David Dickinson!

Phil Eyden

Dear Tina,

I assume it was you sitting with Peter on the 12th at Westminster, and in the photo I’m posting here? It was great to meet him on Saturday – the highlight of my day. Hope it’s Ok for me to put that quote I read to him here, along with 2 photos. I posted these to several other film-related Groups yesterday, and got lots of positive reactions – it’s clear from those, from the postings on your Facebook Group page, and from the

long queue to meet him on 12th, that Peter’s appeal is undiminished. I hope that he (and you) enjoyed the day at Westminster. This is what I posted in other Groups: “Yesterday, I finally got to meet the great Peter Wyngarde, the star of the film. He was pleased to hear this quote from the book “Frightmares”: “extremely effective….. Wyngarde, a talented actor… is excellent here as the academic who goes from icy arrogance to wide-eyed terror….. Flora’s motive is ostensibly professional rivalry…. but there is a suggestion that the younger man’s vitality and good looks are also a factor. Wyngarde appears semi-naked… his physique conspicuously eroticised” and he signed a very appropriate photo.

Andy Ellis

I only met Peter once, Tina, but he was everything that I hoped that he would be. He was was charming, suave and a true gentleman. Peter will never truly be gone because he will live on in the absolutely amazing body of work that he left behind him. A truly amazing and wonderful legacy for us all to enjoy!  X

Robert Wilson

Hello,

I fell in love with Peter at the age of 10 when I saw him in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ and again in my early 20’s when he starred in Dept S and Jason King. Since his death I’ve read quite a bit about him and feel he was one of nature’s gentlemen. Very few people could have come out of a Japanese internment camp mentally unscathed but he went onward and upward. This in itself makes him a remarkable individual. He clearly was a very clever man with a positive mindset. All the changes he made to the JK character paid off handsomely, too bad directors and producers didn’t listen more.

As for his sexual orientation, we will never really know what went on and we don’t have to. In the swinging 60’s and 70’s a lot of people experimented, maybe he did too. Journalists write what sells papers and are still dragging people through mud. Today I don’t think people believe half of what they read, we were not quite as aware in the 70’s. Personally, I always thought and still do that he was a very sexy man and I will always love him. He remains a fascinating enigma.

Ingrid Howard

What a wonderful piece of writing about him. This is why we’ll all keep his memory alive, and what makes this site so much like a family.

Fiona Van Deventer

Dear Tina,

They say never meet your hero’s, but on Saturday 28th March 2015 in Westminster London myself and my best friend did and we were delighted, with how nice and funny and how good he was with his fans proving the old saying wrong. Today that special day is more special for us with the sad news today of the passing of Mr Peter Wyngarde known to most people as Jason King.

For me Peter Wyngarde was one of Britain’s greatest actors and also one of the most underrated, he had the incredible rare talent of being able to completely disappear into the character he was portraying so you forgot you were watching an actor playing a part or that you were watching Peter Wyngarde in something, but were watching an actual person who really existed and not a fictional character. This can be seen best in his roles before the one that would make him internationally famous such as The Baron episode the Legion of Ammak in which he play two roles of King Ibrahim (Not the other King he was to brilliantly play later on) and an actor who also impersonates the King. What amazed me with this Wyngarde didn’t simply play the part of the King and the actor but when the actor had to play the King to near perfection he still made it different enough compared to the real King he was playing. Watching Peter Wyngarde was one of the reasons I wanted to originally become an actor I wanted to be able to do what he did play any role without the audience thinking they were watching an actor.

He was an actor who always left us wanting more Department S is a prime example of one ITC show I wanted more off. I wish they were more things for me to watch with him in, one because Peter never failed to deliver every time he was in something guest or star he never disappointed. He had the rare talent of being able to be a character actor as well as a leading man and succeeding in both. He has left a legacy which I hope will continue to be discovered by each new generation of television and film fans and his talent being continued to be appreciated.

Farewell Peter and thank you for showing me what a true actor can be capable of.

Travis Nicholls

Dear Tina,

When I met you and Peter in London back in 2016, he signed the attached picture. He commented that he disliked the picture because he was smoking in it. I admitted that I was a smoker whereby Peter gave me some tips to give up. Would you say thank you to him from me as I took the bull by the horns and am now cigarette free.

Vince Ferguson

Hi Tina,

Oh Tina. I was so very sorry that there have been some idiots harassing you and Thomas Bowington since Peter passed away. I suspect that if it wasn’t you/Thomas, it would be someone else, that’s what these morons are like.

I rarely post on social media, but love this website and your Facebook page. I just prefer to read the posts, tributes, and see all the fabulous photos which bring back such great memories of a wonderful childhood. One of those memories is of sitting down with my parents to watch Department S and Jason King together. They were such fun and happy times. We loved Peter and being able to come to this website/FB page and relive some of those happy times has brightened some pretty sad days for me, certainly over the last 3 years, and I thank you with all my heart for creating both.

These unfortunate souls [trolls] who, it would appear, are endeavouring to trample all over the memory of Peter, but they will never win because he has so many fans and admirers the world over who won’t let that happen. You and Peter were, and are, soulmates. True love transcends everything. Don’t let these individuals get to you Tina. They are simply not worth it. It makes me sick to my stomach that you are having to deal with all of this. Stay strong and know that you have the love and support of all of us here. Thinking of you. xx

Annie Scott

Dear Tina,

I met Peter when I was on a charity skiing trip in Switzerland. He wanted to do something for our group and tried to arrange skiing lessons, but his PR people wanted to big up the charity angle and he refused. Instead he arranging sleighs to take us to his hotel, and he had a tea party for us in his lobby. Such a wonderful, kind and generous man. He gave me hope that celebrities can be nice people as well.

Julia Young

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And yet there are still some people who are so vile about him – usually those who were never privileged to meet him. Thank you, Julia. Tina

Dear Tina,

I never met Peter. But I loved his acting, his voice, and his sartorial style. Following his passing I did two small acts in tribute. I contributed to a BBC radio piece which I hope was considered and respectful while also being honest.

Secondly I took up my paintbrush for the first time properly in years and painted a portrait. It’s not quite right, but it was impulsive. So inadvertently, thanks Peter for inspiring me yet again.

Robert JE Simpson.

Dear Tina,

When I saw those text messages from Peter to you on your ‘Thoughts of Peter‘ page, I didn’t know whether to put a Heart emoji or a Sad Face because both messages are overflowing with love and gratitude, yet full of sorrow because of what we all know happened – the abuse he suffered from people not worthy of cleaning his boots while he was still amongst us and the even sadder event of his passing.

I decided on the hearts because of the obvious, unreserved, unconditional love between Peter and you, and the very different love we fans (lifelong in my case – well, since I was about 7) have – and always will have – for Peter.

Above: The “Thomas” mentioned in the message to the right is Thomas Bowington – Peter’s friend and agent.

It’s absolutely dreadful for you, this continuing bitterness from a handful of morons. It’s easy for me to say, but embrace the love I’m sure you get from 99% of people, and repel the vitriol from the vipers. Most of them will be doing it to give value to their inadequate lives – when all the time it devalues them. Sad cases.

I truly hope Peter now resides in a more equitable, caring, and peaceful place. RIP, fella.

Take care.

Derek Stewart

Feel & feeling for you Tina. You know life is a wonderful thing, it’s not just physical. When we leave our mortal coil, we live on, of that i have no doubt whatsoever. So be strong of heart, cos you will be together when its your turn to make that step to the next level of Existence X

Dave Author

He was a true gentleman. In every sense of the word The loud mouth trolls will fade away. But Peters legacy will span the ages

Kevin Mocatta

My mother also passed in Jan 2018 and it’s so odd to have messages on my device from days before.

Tony Barlow

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Hello Tony,

I could never delete or get rid of that old phone, and I’m sure you feel the same way about your Mum’s messages. I still have both Peter’s mobile number and that of the flat in my (new) phone, as I just can’t bear to remove them from the contacts list.

Tina

Dear Ms. Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Do not be swayed by the comments and ignorance of narrow minded, arrogant people. I met Peter only once and he was an absolute delight. I was able to shake hands with him and to thank him for all of the marvellous entertainment that he had given us over the years and for his enormous contribution to the acting profession. It was performances like his that shaped my generation into having and interest in the multiplicity of genre’s that we all enjoy. He was absolutely electric in Sherlock Holmes and wonderful as Jason King. A dear friend of mine was named “Jason” because of Peter. There was a lovely tribute in The Times the week Peter passed away from Steven Berkhoff who spoke very warmly about his enduring legend that we still enjoy today.

We have all lost dear ones and that is our private business, but what I will say is that for those very reasons, we should celebrate their memory even more so. Now you channel any hurt and anger at what has happened toward an absolute conviction as we all feel, that here was a television legend; an actor of great repute, who shone and continues to shine through the various media we have today.

I recall a very nice letter I received from the actor Don Henderson, many years ago. Peter starred alongside Don in an episode of “Bulman” called, “I Met A Man Who Was Not There”. He spoke very highly of Peter and Don was honoured to work with him. Now we want to “Meet A Man Who Is Not Here” to see, to enjoy, to celebrate his memory. I will share with you something Don said to me privately, which were his last words to me after an 11 year friendship, “If anyone ever messes you about, tell em to Fuck Off !” I know you are probably too kind a person to use such language, but Don mean’t it kindly from the heart and that is what WE say to you now. Do not be swayed by ignorant opinion. We know why we like and why we love and so do you, and THAT is all that matters!

All The Very Best to you,

Garron Martin

Peter Wyngarde – A god among men.

@fillem_Shaun – Via Twitter

Hello Tina,

I was utterly delighted to see that all three editions of your book were back on their respective Amazon Best Sellers List on 22nd February (2023). More often than not, a biography has a shelf life of around eighteen months to two years, but yours just keeps selling which is testament to Peter’s enduring popularity.

As you know, Peter and I were friends for many years and I’m sure he’d be so proud of everything you’ve done and continue to do in his name. I’m so blessed to have got to know you through him.

With love and every best wish,

Annette A.

Hi Tina!

Congratulations on the success of your amazing book and this stunning website, despite the concerted efforts of a handful of morons to stick the boot in (jealousy is a terrible thing). There are actually a hell of a lot of people out here who greatly appreciate everything you do to keep Peter’s name in the public consciousness. He was a unique talent and a wonderful man.

Look after yourself and keep up the excellent work.

Martin Kelland

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Thank you, Martin – much appreciated.

I’m delighted to report that this website is going from strength to strength, as we’re currently getting an average of 134 visitors every hour – up from 80. That works out at over 20,000 hits a week.

Tina

Hello!

I was delighted to hear about your book; I didn’t know there was one, but it’s definitely of interest. I’m a huge fan of Peter’s. Thank you for letting me know!

James Moran – Writer-director (Severance, Cockneys Vs Zombies, Tower Block, Doctor Who, Torchwood, Primeval, Spooks & more).

Dear Tina,

The memory I carry of Peter is the time I met him with my fiancee at a Comic Con in Birmingham in 2016. My fiancee was talking to him and he started stroking her hand and then pretended to cut his hand on one of her many rings. He was saying things like “Ouch! That hurt!” While my fiancee was fussing over him he looked up at me standing behind her and winked. He was having her on!

David Gogarty

To my childhood hero, and that voice of pure velvet. I still at 5, spend days watching Jason king on you-tube. A hero and icon to me.

Kevin Mocatta

Dear Tina,

I aw Peter’s production of Dracula at the Wimbledon Theatre in 1975 with members of the newly formed Dracula Society and went for a meal afterwards with him at a local Indian restaurant. He then gave several of us a lift home to Fulham and Kensington in his vintage motor car.

Geoff Beresford

Hi Tina,

I saw Peter in Present Laughter, The King and I and Dracula in Birmingham and Wolverhampton. I was also lucky to get autographs.

Phil Wilson

Hello Tina,

I saw Dracula numerous times when Peter came to Hull’s New Theatre in the 70s. He and the play was outstanding.

Chris O-Ten

Dear Tina,

I was Peter’s neighbour in Earls Terrace in the 70s. A lovely, funny man. A pleasure to have known him and to have been his friend.

Stephen Gilchrist, London

Dear Tina,

I was wondering if you’d seen this on Twitter and know what it’s about?

John Castle

The above were taken by ‘man-with-a-pencilcase’ from this website

________________

Hello John,

Yes, I did know about it. The difference between ‘man-with-a-pencilcase’ (A.K.A. @george_cowley) and Gyles Brandreth is that the latter was a big enough man to apologise when he was proven wrong.

The person attempting to sh*t-stir had, a few months earlier, also picked up on something that actress, Madeline Smith, had posted on her personal Facebook page regarding me. She’d been asked who I was, as my book – ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ – was due for publication. Ms. Smith had been a friend of Peter’s back in the 1960’s and 70’s and had attended his funeral in January 2018. She, Caron Gardner, Thomas Bowington (Peter’s friend and agent) and I had gone for a meal afterwards at the Old Bull and Bush in London. However, when she’d responded to the aforementioned enquiry, she hadn’t made the connection between me and the book.

”man-with-a-pencilcase’ – a middle-aged civil servant in the ‘real’ world – had spotted Madeline’s reply and akin to a tom cat spraying the walls in celebration, did the rounds of every film, TV or actor-related Facebook page he could find – claiming that I hadn’t known Peter at all and that my forthcoming book would be a work of fiction. However, when Madeline learned that the author of said tome and the person she’d shared a meal with after Peter’s funeral was one and the same, she posted the following on her own Facebook page:

While both Madeline Smith and Gyles Brandreth were both big enough people to acknowledge their mistakes, ‘man-with-a-suitcase’ was not. It’s little wonder that such people choose to conceal themselves behind usernames!

Tina

Hi Tina,

I’ve been a fan of Peter Wyngarde since I was a teenager. I’m now 68-years-old. I was delighted when I got online and found several websites devoted to him. I eventually joined the Facebook group, Department Wyngarde. I was absolutely horrified back in 2019 when what had otherwise been a reasonably enjoyable gathering of likeminded people was hijacked by vicious, nasty, foul-mouthed yobs who claimed to be Peter’s “true fans”. What that mindless mob of morons said about you and Peter was a disgrace. I left immediately as I didn’t want to be associated with it in any way, shape or form, but not before telling those cretins exactly what I thought of them and their abhorrent behaviour. I was utterly delighted when Facebook decided to remove it from their platform.

I have always lived by a few simple principles, namely: Do not say anything about others that you know is false. Absolutely refuse to let your mind be colonised. The first crazy thing someone asks you to believe or to repeat, refuse. If you can, do so out loud as there is a good chance it will inspire others to speak up, too. If you are a decent person, you know mob justice is never just, so never join a mob. Any mob that comes for someone else will inevitably come for you.

What happened back then was a witch-hunt without a witch, and I have only the greatest admiration for the dignified way in which you dealt with the filth that was thrown at you, especially as you were probably at your lowest ebb having only recently lost Peter. The fact that you refused to bow to these bullies and have come out the other side all the stronger is commendable. I am just sorry that it has taken until now for me to get around to contacting you.

With every best wish to you and Mr Bowington,

Richard D.

P.S. What you’re doing in continuing to promote Peter online and elsewhere is phenomenal.

Tina,

With regard to your book and your decision to donate all royalties to charity: You know that your intentions are honest and good. I know this also. Anyone who believes otherwise should ‘Go forth and multiply!’

It’s also true that Peter never stopped talking about you whenever I spoke with him on the phone. His love, affection and devotion to you has never been in any doubt in my mind. As you’ve said, the people who know, know. How anyone can feel entitled to an opinion on this matter that doesn’t know you and didn’t know/hadn’t even met Peter, is beyond me! I can imagine in my mind exactly what Peter would be saying about it all!

Adam Coxon (Author/Journalist) – London

Hello,

Regarding all the crap about the supposed relationship between Peter Wyngarde and Alan Bates because they shared a flat for a couple of years. Bates also shared a flat with Peter O’Toole for a while. If you want to go down the ‘nudge-nudge, wink-wink’ route, how about Michael Caine and Terrence Stamp. They shared a one bedroomed flat (Ohh-Er!) in London for some time in the1960s and Jude Law and Ewan McGregor were flatmates in the Nineties. I bet if you had the time and could be bothered, you’d find loads of actors that shared accommodation in the early days of their respective careers. All this newspaper gossip is utter nonsense.

Barbara Thompson

Hello,

I’ve been fascinated by Peter for years – his look, his style and his amazing voice. What a talent. I’ve just finished reading Tina’s wonderful book, and found it provoked so many emotions; some positive and some less so – sadness and anger mainly, that this towering talent could be denied professional and personal happiness and fulfilment by tiny-minded pedlars of filth and sleaze. What also upsets me is that we were denied the pleasure of seeing him on stage and screen, chewing up scenery and leaving other actors floundering in his wake. God the world was better, more interesting and stylish with him in it. I miss him.

Steve Judge

A talent not to be beaten. Peter Wyngarde was outstanding in all films and television performances.

Andrew Meager

Hi Tina,

I’ve just been reading some of the stuff in the ‘Do They Mean Me?’ section and saw the bit about what Rev. Richard Cole had posted about Peter on Twitter.

I recall him bleating away on any and every TV programme that would give him airtime about how he’d suffered unimaginable abuse both on and offline following the death of his partner, David. Like many people I felt genuinely sorry for him but that sympathy has waned since reading how unhesitating he is in spreading malicious gossip about others. Every vicar, including attention-seeking “celebrity” ones should be aware of the advice given in the Bible – James, Chapter 1 – Verse 26: “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”

Les Grant

_____________

Hello Les,

Amen to that! Sadly, there’s a lot of people who spend their time slandering and libelling other people with scant regard for the consequences. They tend to hear a piece of gossip and without any consideration as to whether it’s true or not, will repeat it. However, those same individuals will squeal like a stuck pig when they find themselves on the receiving end. I’ve seen it a thousand times over. Sadly, Reverend Coles doesn’t appear willing or able to practice what he preaches.

Tina

Dear Tina,

Very amazing awesome actor he could play variously any character with Incredible charm and style he reminds me of Peter O’Toole he looks like him as well in the two episodes of The Avengers he starred in he was brilliant.

Danny Paris

Dear Tina,

When the Saint episode, ‘Epic‘ was filmed, “The Cabinet of Dr Caligari” of which this scene [see right] has distorted perspective elements (as well as a jolly dash of sly anachronistic Hammer Horror panache) was not quite fifty years in the rear-view mirror. Today, The Avengers episode “Epic” is about 55 years old. Tim Burton still mines visual references from “Caligari” in many of his contemporary films, and its expressionistic aesthetic continues to be an essential component of Burton’s gothic vocabulary.

Bruce Blakeslee

Hi,

I just came across your webpage, I haven’t had time to have a good look just a quick glance as I have to go out. I live in Florida now, I am from the UK and used to see Peter all the time. We used to chat at the local pub and he would bring his Afghan Hound Youseff (not sure of spelling) it was sooo long ago. He was living in a flat at the end of Earls Terrace, W8. I had some other friends in that row of flats. I will have a good look through your page in the next few days,

Thanks,

Heather

Dear Tina,

Firstly, I wanted to thank you for agreeing to donate a copy of your biography, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ to our film and television archive. It is a valuable addition and gratefully received.

I’ve had the great pleasure of perusing the book myself and I have to say that I’ve never experienced such a vivid account of an actors life before. This could only have been achieved by an author with first-hand experience of her subject, since the elucidation of every moment spent with Wyngarde; the air you shared, the situations, sights, sounds and smells are those of a person with only the most intimate knowledge. I thank you on behalf of every fan for your generosity in sharing his life and career with us.

Dr Phil Chapman

Dear Tina,

Just a quick note to say that I spent most of the afternoon of today glued to the TV watching the Department S DVD box set! What a pleasure. I’m 61 on Monday and I must confess the nostalgia came flooding back: the clothes, the dialogue, the music, the panache! Didn’t they drink a lot on TV in those days! Well done for managing such an excellent site. I wish you every success and will drop by now and again to say hello. If there are any events coming up in the future which you think might appeal to me then please let me know.

Best wishes,

Paul Williams.

Hello Tina,

I just wanted to thank you for sharing some of Peter’s writings with us. It’s been a privilege to have the opportunity to read his own words in his own hand. I wonder how the naysayers and self-appointed authorities on PW’s life will account for this? Will they throw their hands up in the air and admit they got it wrong? Not a chance! I expect they’ll simply carry on regardless, even going so far as to label Peter himself a liar.

Keep up the excellent work Tina, and thank you again for sharing all this wonderful stuff with us.

Stefan Robinson, Clifton

Hi’ya Tina,

I don’t know if you’ll remember me? You were kind enough to organise an interview with Peter for my journalism degree dissertation, which he was good enough to do free. You were also gracious enough to get all those photos signed for the Guild of Students fundraiser in 1996, which raised over £500 for us back then.

Congrats’n’all that on your book. Maybe we can arrange to meet up to do an interview on it for the ‘paper sometime in the New Year? I’m hoping that I’ll get a copy for Christmas. I’ve certainly dropped enough not-so-subtle hints to deserve one. I can’t tell you how delighted I am that it’s done so well.

Let’s not leave it so long this time.

James Long

______________________

Hello James,

Yes. of course I remember you. I recall quite clearly you standing Peter and I a brew in the university food hall.

An interview sounds good. Maybe if one or other of your relatives have taken the hint and bought you a copy, you’ll be able to tell me what you think. Until then…

Tina

Dear Tina,

How fantastic to find that the Hellfire Club is still up and running. Thank you for your unwavering loyalty both to Peter and his fans.

I have been a fan since seeing him way back in the 1960s in Night of the Eagle and followed his career without pause enjoying every performance.  Loved him in Jason King even if it was very campy and OTT but what great entertainment just the stuff to blow away all the cares.  And how scrumptious he always looked in his flares and furbelows.  And that moustache and hairy chest!

On the serious side I battled my way to the box office to get tickets for ‘The King and I‘ back in 1973 and enjoyed every minute.  I even met and spoke with him once.  I was on the way to the Odeon cinema Kensington and he was cleaning his Bentley Continental.  Beautiful car. I wonder whatever happened to it?  He was so sweet and charming when I said “Hello” and mentioned how much I enjoyed his performances.  So natural and unaffected. But why did he disappear?  I know all about the faux pas but other stars have done worse and are still flaunting their lack of talent all over our screens.  Why was Peter been made the whipping boy? 

Caught a glimpse of him earlier this year in a programme about screen cads and he looked as gorgeous as ever, even if his head was shaved.  But a shaven head did Yul Brynner no harm.    

Jill Basten

______________________

Hello Jill,

Thank you for taking the time to contact me.

How wonderful that you managed to get tickets to see ‘The King and I’ live on stage; the nearest I ever got was seeing a performance on 16mm film!

The Bentley continental you saw Peter cleaning is still around. He sold it back in the early 1980s, but it’s changed hands several times since then. You can read more about it here.

Tina

Hello Everyone, 

I’m just sending you this e-mail to say how much I enjoyed your Peter Wyngarde web site, although I’m mostly a fan of The Prisoner/Patrick McGoohan,

I can fondly remember Department S , and Jason King from my younger days in the early seventies, my uncle was a dead ringer for Mr Wyngrade and had a large following of female admirers. That period was the golden age of television adventure programmes that could never be repeated, and thanks to the talent of Mr Wyngarde and co, they will go down in history as the best television programmes of their kind.

Also, you are spot on, as Number Two in The Prisoner episodes was classic, well done.

Peter will always be remembered for his style and elegance, and his fantastic acting ability. As a token of respect, I used to play under the screen name of Jason King72 on theYahoo! pool game web site, and as a consequence, I was hardly ever beaten.

With Kind Regards,

Robert Goshawk

Hello,

I have only discovered Mr. Wyngarde recently, when I watched him as Klytus in Flash Gordon.  This may be a little crazy but I would just like to say that I was in complete awe over how amazing and incredible his voice sounded in Flash Gordon.  I had chills down my spine every time he spoke on screen.  (I wish he could have been in every scene in the movie). 

Mr. Wyngarde tops my list of having the coolest and most eloquent sounding voices I have ever heard in my life.  It is so inspiring. I would die for a voice like his. 

Steven Pryce, Albany, Oregon.

Hi Tina,

I know this is a very difficult time for you. I really was so sorry when I learned of Peter’s death. I can’t believe he’s been gone for 3 years now.

As you know, during the ’70s we had a contract to officially open over 30 Woolworth’s newly refurbished stores throughout the UK. Other than my friends and clients, Morecambe & Wise, Peter was the most requested and highest paid celebrity making personal appearances.

Peter was a charmer with the ladies and his appearances on the Woolworths engagements drew in excess of 5,000 screaming ladies. He was an absolute joy to work with and drew massive crowds. We were even turned away from a Woolworths store[1] on one occasion.

The police said the stores around “Woolies”, in the Arndale Centre, were worried their all-glass frontages might break. On the way there we were stopped by a police car and a lovely police lady said: “Hello, Jason.” (They always called Peter by his TV role name). “I’m sorry but we can’t let you go any further.

Peter asked me: “Dear Boy, will I still get paid?”

To which I replied, of course you will, and, of course, he did. Woolworth’s said whilst they were sorry not to have had Peter in person the story hit nearly all the front pages of the daily newspapers. They couldn’t have bought that publicity! He was a wonderful gentleman.

Peter was so fortunate to have you by his side for so long, dearest girl, and that you remained by his side right until the end.

Hope to see/hear from you again soon.

Gresh[2] xxx

Click HERE for ‘Interview with Carl Gresham’.

Hello,

This web site is quite an unexpected but very pleasant find.

I was actually spending the afternoon surfing the web aimlessly while the bosses were on their Christmas holiday… but the find brought an instant ‘hit’ of nostalgia. ‘Jason King’ brings back very fond memories of faining illness to get off school so I could stay at home and watch our (then) brand new colour television. In those days shows like ‘The Persauders’, ‘Randall & Hopkirk’, ‘The Champions’, ‘The Baron’ & ‘Man in a Suitcase’ filled the afternoon ITV schedules…And I loved them.

Of all these ‘Jason King’ seemed to be ahead of it’s time, ‘feeling’ like a cult classic before cult classics were ‘invented’. It’s over the top (in a good way) flavour help make a fantasy world of flimsy TV sets that made me forget school for a while and made me think that there was exciting things going on in the world – if only I had a kipper tie and flairs that contradicted the laws of physics maybe I took could be doing something adventurous too (instead of two sessions of algebra followed by PE)!

Its nice to see the pictures of Jason again – its made my afternoon all warm and smiling.

Thanks…

Steven Beat

Hello,

I first fell in love with Peter when he played Sidney Carton in ‘A Tale of Two Cities‘ and again in ‘Department S’.

Not many people could have gotten through what he did in the Japanese Prison Camp, on his own, at such a young age, he must always have had a positive mindset. I was so sad when I heard he’d passed away. He had an amazing, eventful life.

Ingrid Howard

Dear Tina,

I was so sorry to hear of your great loss and wanted to write back then, but at least Peter is now at peace.

You both have always been in my thoughts and always will be. I will never forget how good you were to my mother when my father died.

Monica Martin

Dear Tina, 

I am writing to tell you how much I have enjoyed listening to Peter’s album – its great! My son Oliver loves it too. I of course remembered seeing Peter on the telly as Jason King, but did not know he had made a record until Jonathan Ross played the first track on his Saturday show once. I was fascinated and bought the album.

Best Wishes,

Greg Smith

Below: Morrissey giving Jonathan Ross a copy of Peter’s album on ‘The Jonathan Ross Show’ in 2009.

Dear Tina and everyone associated with this wonderful site, 

Have an absolutely beautiful Easter. I am a 58-year old woman and have been a fan of Peter’s since I saw the original Department S. I am a very busy legal secretary, so find it difficult to watch things regularly due to work commitments and keeping fit!!, but I have a nice long weekend ahead. Will curl up in my bed with mugs of tea and some treats, oh, and hubby (hee hee), and watch the Jason King box set from start to finish. I can’t wait!!!

Once again, a very Happy Easter to you all. 

With much love, Sharon  

Dear Tina,

The wonderful Mr. Wyngarde scared me to death in that movie “The Innocents” with Deborah Kerr (1961). It is shown on TCM sometimes and is a must-see.

What a delightful surprise to learn that Mike Meyers based his character Austin Powers – International Man of Mystery on Mr. Wyngarde. RIP Sir.

CBG

Dear Tina

As a life-long time Avengers fan, I just wanted to send you a note to say how much I’m enjoying this website.

‘Epic‘ was recently on and so was the ‘Checkmate‘ episode of The Prisoner, as well as Peter’s appearance in ‘The Saint‘, on BBC America.

While on the phone with my brother, who is also a fan of all three shows, I “Googled” Peter’s name and found your website. Hope life is treating you well. Keep up the great work.

Jill B – Phoenix, Arizona

Dear Tina,

This is a wonderful opportunity to finally be able to write to you! I was an ardent fan of Peter’s in my early teens, avidly following the weekly adventures of Jason King on television here in Sydney, Australia. He epitomised the man of my dreams – handsome, romantic, classy, suave and cool!  I have had a soft spot for him in my heart ever since, and it has always been a pleasure to see him on the screen in the years since then.

My heart is like a singing bird
Whose nest is in a watered shoot:
My heart is like an apple tree
Whose boughs are bent with thickest fruit;
My heart is like a rainbow shell
That paddles in a halcyon sea;
My heart is gladder than all these
Because my love is come to me.Raise me a dias of silk and down;
Hang it with vair and purple dyes;
Carve it in doves and pomegranates,
And peacocks with a hundred eyes;
Work it in gold and silver grapes,
In leaves and silver fleur-de-lys;
Because the birthday of my life
Is come, my love is come to me.

Viki, Sydney, Australia

Dear Tina,

I’ve been wanting to write to you for a few weeks but knowing that this month was the third anniversary of Peter Wyngarde’s death, I thought I’d leave it for a couple of weeks.

I know how you must have felt of 15th January seeing people posting tributes to Peter online, but I think you should look at them as a positive thing. So many people on this planet have died and been forgotten. Peter made a real impact on the lives of so many others and it’s a tribute to him that they still remember him, even after three years.

It is easy to be sad when thinking of lost loved ones, but try to think of his having been here as a positive thing, and how many lives he touched, even indirectly, just by being him. A celebration of his having lived, rather than mourning the fact that he’s died.

Sending you all of my best wishes,

Gillian Hill, Carlisle

Hello,

I’m rapt to find Peter Wyngarde’s official site (and it looks great!), especially since Department S has suddenly appeared on screens down here in New Zealand, and hopefully Jason King won’t be far behind. It’s like finding a hidden treasure, a rediscovery of PW.

I look forward to exploring the sit and reacquainting myself with the coolest dude around.

Justine Webb-Elliot

Dear Tina,

Unfortunately I don’t have a Facebook account so I’m unable to join the Official Appreciation Society. Such a pity. I always found Peter to have been the actor who single handedly personified a particular genre of character, television and acting during the 60s and 70s.

He epitomised the most flamboyant aspects of men’s fashion in the early 70s. By the late 70s however, tough guy cops, racing around after villains set the tone. Therefore, the vastly entertaining and sublimely debonair Peter sadly lost his top spot in the television ratings.

I’m just glad that he quit the booze in the early 80s and went on to live to a ripe old age. A wonderful actor who undoubtedly inspired me to become a closet silk cravat wearer, in later life. 

Andrew Reid

Hi,

I watched ‘Department S’ and ‘Jason King’ as a lad. My wife and kids have watched ‘Jason King’ on DVD this week. My daughter, Ruth, loves the look, by the way. I always wanted to be The Saint or Jason King, never regarding any of the other superheroes as cool enough, I guess.

Thanks for everything. Peter and Roger Moore really will always be the coolest of the 60’s and 70’s TV icons. Best wishes.

Brad Bennett, Worcestershire

Dear Tina, 

Strictly speaking, Jason King was an early seventies series. But as webmaster of the 1960s British Pop Culture website, I had no reservations about including references to Jason and to Peter Wyngarde on my website. I was delighted in fact and saw it as wholly appropriate because in spirit and in style Jason King was a sixties series.

Jason King captured the atmosphere that was prevalent at the end of that golden age. A time just before the 3-day weeks, strikes, power cuts and discontent that were a hallmark of the early seventies and just prior to the relegation of the once glorious Elstree studios to the production of a run of dire seventies comedy films. He was the last of the great ITC shows that have since become cult classics. He was colourful, eccentric, stylish in a seventies garish way! His looks were almost a throw-back to the dandies of days gone by.

The music was exciting and got my thirteen year-old imagination racing. Jason King was, in retrospect, either a corny sexist or great fun and very sexy depending on your perspective. Mine is strongly with the latter view, not because I personally found him sexy you’ll understand – I was fantasising about Emma Peel and Tara King at the time, but because of the effect he clearly had on a generation of females from Dublin to Dusseldorf.

Jason King and Peter Wyngarde were, to the media and fans, interchangeable and the strength of the series was not in the writing or production values but in Peter’s accomplished playing of the role and the clear fact that he was having a great time doing it. He played it with verve and style. Affectionate parodies, such as Harry Enfield’s ‘Jason Queen’, exaggeratedly depict the wobbly sets, dodgy backdrops, unreal car chases, outrageously sexist behaviour and so on, but Jason King was no better or worse than all the other shows you care to mention in this respect. Its strength was Peter. It made him a huge international star, bigger in fact in Europe than at home, and was a fitting apex to a great career. Peter and his alter ego Jason King are perfect examples of the best of British.

David Barnes

Hello,

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! And finally, Thank You! for giving the fans of Peter Wyngarde the opportunity to see such great photographs. I have been a fan for some time (I am 46) and think his acting is superb – and I was totally amazed when I heard his wonderfully original album (which I got on CD – couldn’t find the LP to save my life!) I was just so delighted to see so much information on your Site. Thank you again for all the great photo’s and information on this excellent and long-overdue site. With very best wishes from Australia.

Glen Vernon, New South Wales.

I’m sorry for my English. I only want to explain my congratulations and my gratefulness for all of moments good in my life when I saw Department S and Jason King. I write since Argentina, and if you can understand Spanish may be explain better my feelings with Peter Wyngarde’s work.

Thank You, and more thank you for all of moment. 

Néstor García Rosas, Argentina

Hi Tina!

Peter Wyngarde is quite simply the most stylishly attired man ever to walk the face of the earth. The cosmic splendour of the wardrobe he deployed to so magnificent an effect in his seminal role of Jason King, should have served as the sartorial template for the remainder of time. Furthermore, he is, to this day, the only man ever to achieve the hitherto impossible task of out-dressing Roger Moore in an episode of The Saint [The Man who Liked Lions]. In a world now overpopulated by light-bulb headed gargoyles and baseball-capped sub-Neanderthals, the stylistic legacy of Peter Wyngarde serves as a powerful reminder of the civilisation that we have lost.

Jacko73

Hello there,

I really enjoyed my visit to your web site-fantastic stuff.

I’ve been a big fan of Peter Wyngarde since I was a lad  watching Department S, a series that still looks stylish today. I shall keep on checking your site for all the latest news. All the best.

John Pyroyiannos

Dear Tina,

I received my copy of ‘Flash Gordon: The Official Story Of The Film’ yesterday and was absolutely delighted to see that the author had given you the credit you deserve, not just for assisting him with information relating to the film, but moreover for continuing to champion Peter Wyngarde as both an actor and a man. Your generosity in sharing your vast archive and knowledge of the him has not gone unappreciated by his fans.

Long Live The King!

Scott Webb

Dear Tina,

I’ll never understand why Peter never hit the really big-time, as he certainly of the same acting stature as Peter O’Toole for example, yet has no big blockbuster movies to his name.

Perhaps he made the wrong career choices somewhere along the line,or was given bad advice or whatever, I just don’t know, do you?

PoorOldSpike

Hello Tina,  

I’m a long-term fan of Peter’s having seen him in`The Prisoner of Zenda’* in around 1966.

I had the great pleasure of seeing him on stage in Wimbledon in a 5Oth. anniversary production of `Dracula‘ in 1974. He was absolutely brilliant! Fabulous special effects, too.

How sad that we weren’t able to have a Jason King for the new millennium. This is how I saw him: a mature, retired  J.K., sitting in an enormous wingback chair in a beautiful book-lined study, brandy globe in hand, open fire, etc., etc., recounting his exploits in flashback. It could’ve opened with Peter saying something like…“Ah, yes…the matter of the Sultans jewels..”  then he’d  recount a part of the story and cut to the flashback.

Warmest regards to you, Tina, for keeping the flame alive.

Alan McAfee

*The series was actually called ‘Rupert of Hentzau’.

Hi,

Your book is still in my mind…I adored Wyngarde then & do to this day…to which end I have purchased box sets of both Department S & Jason King. I am having the most wonderful time reliving those halcyon days of truly entertaining television & really amazing actors & actresses ! Wyngarde was fabulous in every sense of the word & I can never adequately express how much I miss his fantastic personality – he was, without doubt, one of a kind…

Wonderful book – thoroughly enjoyable and ultimately very moving – thank you.

Carol Wallage

In loving memory of Peter xxx

Jeanne Perkins, Reading, Berkshire

Hi,

Sorry to bother you but can you tell me if you are the same Tina who used to run Peter the Great’s fan club yonks ago? I remember sending her Jason King books, DVD covers etc – all of which Peter graciously signed for me, adding my name, which was nice.

Ah, great to know. Thanks for getting those items signed 15+ years ago. They all adorn my office walls or bookcases – along with similar items by Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, all the main cast of The Avengers, Ian Ogilvy, John Denver… I’m an ‘anorak’ really. I’ve been a fan of Peter’s since the late 60s. A much better actor than given credit for – his strained performance in Night of The Eagle is majestic! News of his death is a JFK moment for me (as is Roger’s, Tony’s and John’s – but, paradoxically, not JFK’s!). Peter’s passing was so sad. I feel for him and you. I won’t badger you with millions of messages, don’t worry.

Regards,

Derek Stewart. Elgin, Moray

______________

Hello Derek,

How lovely that you should remember me – and you’re not bothering me at all. I do get quite a lot of messages from fans who I’d arranged to have video sleeves and so forth signed by Peter. It’s really nice of you to offer thanks 15+ years on. It makes a change from the kind of psychotic rants and ingratitude that I’ve been faced with from one particular quarter.

Tina

Dear Tina,

Always felt a great affection for Peter: loved his Style , the way he looked and acted and the man himself as he embodied in many ways the qualities that I would be very happy to have myself: My father was a Peter Wyngarde admirer too I suspect as he looked very similar and would I know have loved Peter dress sense and style: I know sadness very deep when the loss of a loved one like Peter or my late father has to be endured, It is always with us like a tide that forever washes in over us sometimes and at others recedes a little giving us some relief: My father died in January 40 years ago this year and the hurt has become part of me and I live with it as we all do : I send you best wishes for a peaceful and happy 2022 xx

Russ Adams

Hello Tina.

Canada here. We just had Peter’s Prisoner episode on at noon today (02.09.21) in my area. Looked dashing with the scarf and later on doing the thing breaking the stack of wood, whilst squatting on the floor.

Doug Pelton, Toronto

___________________

Hello Doug,

It’s so good to hear from you; hope you’re well. So glad you enjoyed Peter’s Prisoner episode. The last time I saw ‘Checkmate’ was with Peter at the 50th Anniversary event at Portmeirion in September/October 2017. A bitter-sweet memory.

Take Care of yourself.

Tina

Dear Tina,

I was lucky to meet Peter once. He had pair of gorgeous Afghan Hounds, totally black. They went everywhere with him, even to the theatre. Lovely man.

Dorrey Squirrell

Hi Tina,

Thank you sooooooooooo much for sharing the original, handwritten notes that Peter had made for use in his autobiography. For a life-long fan, it was wonderful to see those times in his life recounted in his own words.

A huge thank you also for your brilliant book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

Best Wishes,

Emma Neilson, Sittingbourne

Hello Tina,

Peter was my first crush. I absolutely loved him and at 14-year-old, I believed that he was going to whiz me away and marry me.

Margaret Walker

Dear Tina,

I met Peter once while shopping in Kensington market, we had quite a chat. I knew that I knew him from somewhere but couldn’t place him. Never occurred to me he was an actor. I assumed we had met at a party or something like that. It wasn’t until later on that day I saw a photo of ‘Jason King’ that I twigged why he was so familiar.

Barbara Wilson

Dear Ms. Wyngarde-Hopkins,

What an interesting warm site.

Think ‘The Man Who Liked Lions‘ was one of the first TV programmes I saw in colour. I remember it as almost a deep 3D experience, something that I don’t think I ever bettered with any of the new technological toys that have come along in the meantime. There was certainly magic at work down at Elstree in those days and Peter was a chief wizard stirring our thoughts and opening all the dusty doors of our imagination. We were all part of the collective experience then. I have been struggling since to find out what it all means and where we all go now, if in fact we have been anywhere at all?

Jack Leigh

Dear Tina,

Back in the late 70’s, I was an avid comic book reader (I still am in some cases) and I loved Flash Gordon. So when the trailer came out and I heard those first few words of dialogue, I was captivated by that dialogue, and by the words “An obscure body in the S-K System, Your Majesty. The inhabitants refer to it as the planet… Earth.” Peter Wyngarde had the perfect voice for General Klytus and despite being behind a mask the entire movie, I was still drawn to his character.

Then as I got older, I found Department S videos on Youtube and found Jason King a very interesting character. I followed those as best as I could, until they removed them from the net, but I did get the Jason King set which I am having my own personal tribute watch over the last few days. Then I realized I have several other movies/TV shows of his such as Burn Witch, Burn (Night of the Eagle), Emma Peel Avengers set, both Douglas Wilmer and Jeremy Brett’s Sherlock Holmes’ sets. And on a side note, yes, I did read the Dark Phoenix saga back in the day and only realized later, after it was over, that Jason Wyngarde, and the whole Hellfire Club was based on the Avengers episode “A Touch of Brimstone”. So thank you for keeping all these wonderful films and programmes in the public domain and for being such a great ambassador for Peter Wyngarde.

Ruth Horne

To Whom It May Concern,

I just watched “The Gadic Collection“, great show, loved it, but… writing up a detailed synopsis of everything that happens on screen also seems antithetical to the spirit of the 1960s… Luckily I made sure to watch the show first before reading the spoiler which then seemed totally redundant…

Ras Faquade

________________________

Dear Ras,

Thank you for your comment regarding our review of the Saint episode, ‘The Gadic Collection’.

The reason that we post reviews/extended story synopsis is because we get a huge number of visitors to our website from every corner of the world, from the Far East to South America, to Lapland and the Iran. Not all of these people have seen these programmes in spite of the fact that they’ve been around since the 1960s, simply because they’ve never been broadcast in their neck of the woods, and/or they have no access to them on DVD/BluRay. These reviews/synopsis are their only means of learning about Peter Wyngarde’s work and have proven to be extremely popular.

We’re pleased that you enjoyed Peter’s performance in The Gadic Collection and thank you for visiting our website.

With warmest Best Wishes,

On behalf of Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins 

Greetings Tina,

I have been a fan of Peter for many years and I am currently re-watching ‘Jason King’ from the beginning and also listening to my Peter Wyngarde CD which I bought in Oxford Street about 15 years ago.

I also went to see Peter on stage as a birthday treat in 1983. What a wonderful, multi-talented man he was. You are so fortunate to have known him for so many years. Thank you for being Peter’s true friend and for looking after him. He deserved the best and that was you.

God bless you Tina and God bless Peter Wyngarde.

Dave Hull

Dear Tina,

As a boy I was brought up on Peter. My sisters bedroom wall was covered in his photos. She and her friends from work once telephoned the office up the road from the garage where they worked, asking to speak to the bloke who looks like Jason King. The guy replied, I look like Edward Woodward, will I do!!! We still laugh about that 50 years later. Dear wonderful Peter. What a voice!

Adrian Bird

Dear Tina,

I watched Dept S and Jason King as a lad. My wife and kids have watched Jason King on DVD this week. My five year old daughter, Ruth, loves the look, BTW. I always wanted to be The Saint or Jason King, never regarding any of the other superheroes as cool enough, I guess. Thanks for everything. Peter and Roger Moore really will always be the coolest of the 60’s and 70’s TV icons.

Best wishes,

Brad Bennett

Dear Tina,

Thanks for taking the time to answer my enquiry [see ‘Your Questions Answered‘]

I remember that I liked ‘Epilogue To Capricorn’ and I do remember it being on ITV ln Saturday evenings, and even at the age of eleven I was very, very impressed with Peter. I wonder why I connected Maxine Audley with it? I’m sure she was in another TV show around that time and there was a Voodoo aspect to the storyline. I will have to look Ms. Audley’s television work up.

Anyway, I’m glad Adrienne Corri was in it, as she was always one of my favourite actresses. I think I liked the fact that she came over as a bit of a stronger type of woman. Come to think now, I do have a vague memory of her being in the series.

I wonder if there is any possibility of it ever being released on DVD ?

It was a long time ago when I watched Peter in this series. I would not like to give the impression though, that I was obsessed with TV at such a young age. We had great television dramas then, but I had a normal healthy childhood full of outdoor activities, like most children of the fifties and sixties.

Gosh though I really would love to see Peter and Adrienne Corrie in that series again.

Dennis Leary.

______________________

Dear Dennis,

Alas, the series will never be available on DVD as it was broadcast live. It’s a shame that such things have been lost by producers with little or no forward thinking.

Hi Tina,

Firstly, congratulations on your fabulous book which is a truly stunning tribute to an equally amazing actor. Having worked in the film and theatre profession myself for many years I know that Steven Berkoff, will only lavish praise on a piece of work when it’s richly deserved. He’s not only a great actor but a world renowned author and playwright, so he knows what he’s talking about. To have had him write the afterword for your book was an achievement in itself. To have won his praise was a rare distinction indeed.

Keep up the excellent work and don’t let the imbecilic minority grind you down.

Terence G.

Dear Tina,

Since joining your great (Facebook) group, I have been watching more and more of Peter, Department S, Jason King and his cameo in The Two Ronnies, which he played so well, and the same thing struck me when i watched him, how much he was so like the other Peter, O’Toole. After going on the internet I read, and I’m not alone as many other people agree. I would have loved to have seen Peter W. in ‘What’s New Pussycat’ with Peter Sellers , or in O’Toole’s last film, ‘Venus’. Peter Wyngarde stands shoulder to shoulder with the greats, O’Toole, Burton, Finney, Olivier, no question…. God bless him….

Shell Armitt

Hi Tina,

Like many people I’ve got reminders and bookmarks all over my digital life both on and off the internet. I got hooked on ebay some years ago, had a big buying spree then gradually settled down and instead of buying anything and everything began to for look for things I’m interested in. I get email alerts about many things; books, motorsport memorabilia, and so on and a while ago I got an alert about a DVD box set I’d fancied for a long while. It was Department ‘S’, the TV series that introduced Jason King to the world. Department S was made in 1969 and was produced by ITC, a company founded by TV mogul Lew Grade and the show was the brainchild of Monty Berman and Dennis Spooner who together made a string of action and adventure series in the sixties and seventies like The Saint, Randall and Hopkirk, The Baron, The Champions and a spin off from Department S, Jason King. All these series were shot like feature films on 35mm film and that is the reason why they look shiny and new today, available on DVD box sets.

Jason King was played by Peter Wyngarde and he used all his own clothes in his portrayal of the character. In the late sixties and early seventies ties were becoming bigger, trousers and jacket lapels were flaring and Peter Wyngarde brought this all to the TV screen with his characterisation.

I was a school kid in 1969 and we kids all loved Jason King and his flamboyant outfits and we went out of our way to get a giant tie knot, just like the one Jason had in ‘Department S.’ Most of the kids got the big knot by tying their ties way down at the fat end of the tie making their ties short but at least with a big knot. I got some help with my tie from an unexpected source: my Mum!

We were watching Department S one day and I was wishing out loud for a big fat tie like that and she said to me “You could make one yourself. It’s easy.”

“Easy?” I said. “How?”

“Well, all you need is another tie to go inside the first one and make it bigger.” Sounds good I thought but how do you get one tie inside another? My Mum showed me how with a big safety pin! What you had to do was get your second tie, the one that needs to go inside the other, pin the safety pin to it and then you can thread it through the other one, manipulating it along with the safety pin which you can feel through the material.

I dug out an old tie and threaded it through my school tie, took out the safety pin and then tied my tie in the usual way. Result; one huge knot that Jason King himself would be pleased with.

The next day I went into school wearing my new fashionable tie and half the school –or so it seemed to me- were stunned by my trendy new school tie. Where did I get it from? How did I get such a knot? Did I tie it in a special way?

I remember once after games, getting changed in the changing rooms and everyone turned to watch as I fastened my tie. There was me, fastening the tie in the mirror with all my school mates watching. I had become a sort of mini school celebrity: The kid with the trendy tie!

“Here it comes,” said someone as I made the final tie of the knot,

“Super knot!”

Well, my fifteen minutes of fame came, went, and vanished as other people worked out how to make their own special ‘super knots.’ Jason King went on to star in his own spin off TV series then he too vanished into TV’s Golden past. Fashion moved on and in the eighties ties went the other way; narrow thin ties were the norm. Trousers lost their flares, jacket lapels slimmed down once again. ‘Penny round’ shirts were forgotten but then, that’s the great thing about DVDs: pop your disc into the machine and you can experience it all again!

T.J. Denny

Dear Madam,

I’ve been watching the re-broadcast of Department S on London Live which brought back such amazing memories from my youth, when every male in the city seemed to look like Jason King. Seeing the series again prompted me to look online to see what I could find about Peter Wyngarde which was when I came across this fabulous website. It’s an absolute goldmine of information and a credit to all those involved. Just like Arnie Schwarzenegger, I’ll be back.

Yours,

Frank Webb

Greetings, peace and love,

I came across ‘Jason King’ in researching what English shows were broadcast in the Ethiopian Empire 1964-74. The shows qualifies as Selassiedelic. I am certain the Emperor would never approve of anything promoting twisted instincts or morality. I was hoping to find a site like yours to set the record straight after I read the predictable mess of lies on English Wikipedia, my hat is off to you and rest assured you will expose those liars in the long run!

Ras Feqade

Dear Tina,

I’ve just read the latest piece on the Thoughts of Peter page about so-called Cancel Culture and some of the morons that have infested the Internet. The types you refer to are like spoiled children having a tantrum. They crave attention and demand they get it. As someone so rightly put it recently, the village idiot has gone global.

Best wishes to you and thanks for this amazing website.

Nat Jacobs

Dear Tina,

Thank you for signing my copy of your book.

As usual I read the back first, then the beginning, then the sections in between and then start to finish. It is one of the best biographies I’ve ever read.

Just a few items you might find of interest. Colchester Reparatory Theatre (Albert Hall) where Peter began his career has for many years been the Co-op bank. The theatre group itself became the Mercury Theatre which was founded by Anthony Quayle. I saw Peter there 3 times with Desmond, my brother.

I once spotted Peter driving out of ABPC Borehamwood which was near where I lived, driving his Bentley Continental with his Afghan Hound. I also saw him at the Odeon Cinema in St. Martins Lane, smoking those large Sobranie cocktail cigarettes. Latterly, I saw him in The King and I, which was a great show, and we – my brother and I – managed to get free tickets to The Russell Harty Show. Sadly, the interview itself was pre-recorded.

Peter had some great cars, such as a TVR (I also had one). It was of some interest to me to know that he’d once owned a Bristol. My brother and I knew Anthony Crook, who was a part owner of the company, very well. Anthony was a well known Formula 2 racing driver. We had some scary test drives with him in Bristols.

I have bought the Jason King box set (the complete series). I’m watching disc 5 at the moment.

Thanks again for writing such a great biography.

Best Wishes,

David Glennon

Dear Tina and everyone associated with this wonderful site, 

Have an absolutely beautiful Christmas. I am a 58-year-old woman and have been a fan of Peter’s since I saw the original Department S.  I recently bought the DVD box set of the series. Although I am a very busy legal secretary and find it difficult to watch things regularly due to work, there is a nice long weekend ahead, so I will curl up in my bed with mugs of tea and some treats, oh, and hubby (hee hee) and watch Peter for 28, long glorious hours – I can’t wait!!!

Once again, a very Happy Christmas to you all.  With love,

Sharon Worsley

By the way – I once wrote to Peter and he sent me a gorgeous Christmas greeting – I love this site – keep up the fantastic work. xxx

Thoughts On… Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers

Regarding the embittered prat who stated that you’d spent all of the first half of your book trying to convince its readers that Peter Wyngarde wasn’t gay: Why doesn’t he write a book himself, in which he can provide evidence to the contrary?

It’s a wonderful book I enjoyed it very much. Peter was my dear late mom’s favourite actor. She absolutely loved him!

Kathy Richards

Hi Tina,

I find the discussion here about your book and the halfwits (almost entirely men I notice), who wouldn’t know the difference between their asses and their elbows, fascinating.

I personally recall reading some months prior to your book being published a conversation on a ‘Minder’ forum between three men(!) as to what the content of your book would actually be. By the end of their pow-wow they’d decided in their tiny, tiny minds what would be said and how. I recall one of them saying that you would attempt to deny that Peter had been arrested on 2 separate occasions for importuning. As has since been established, one of these incidents has been found to be disinformation concocted and hosted (and since removed) by Wikipedia[1]. It just goes to show how willing the braindead are to believe any amount of uncorroborated information posted by a faceless entity with no qualification to comment, while ridiculing and discounting someone who actually knew the personality they’re discussing. It beggars belief!

As someone else has already highlighted here, these people have become so resolute in the beliefs they’ve defended so garishly and for so long that they dare not back down or even consider the possibility they might actually be wrong. It goes without saying that each of these men were concealing themselves behind usernames, such was their unshakable belief in the claims they were making. Speaks volumes!

I also remember one of their number quite categorically stating that, in a previous life, you’d been Peter’s “housekeeper” which was, allegedly, how you’d met him. Where in the name of God do they get this stuff from?

Anyway, back in the real world. Congratulations on the success of said book and kudos for standing up to the bullies in doggedly fighting to right the wrongs that were done to Peter during his lifetime.

Brian Gough

[1]: Read more about this here.

Dear Tina,

The three men described by Brian Gough [see email above] sound like a bunch of muckraking old battleaxes at a bus stop. In the auld days they’d stand on the dust bin to gossip with the neighbour over the back yard wall. Now they gather on social media and Cult TV forums. Evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar compared gossiping to the grooming primates engage in as a means of bonding, but these days instead of picking fleas off each other they bitch about people they don’t know and have never met on social media. Bet the moment they’d finished with you and Peter they were each off to another habitat to get their claws into some other poor bugger (and doubtless each other as soon as their respective backs were turned!).

Such people are small fry; gutless, lightweight mediocrities whose only means of making themselves feel superior is to drag others down to their level. They’re rotten to the core with jealousy and pissed off at themselves because your book was about to take a flamethrower to everything the credulous little proles had convinced themselves was true. I bet they’d spent years fantasising about being rogered senseless by Jason King and couldn’t face the possibility that he’d been on the hetro bus all along. Hell hath no fury like a coven of old queens scorned.

Rick Bentham

Hi Tina,

Unfortunately, you’ll always get self-important people like this who are absolutely, completely and utterly certain that they know everything there is to know about a well-known personality or incident they were involved in, based solely on what they’ve read online or in a newspaper [see previous two emails]. They haven’t the intelligence to consider whether what they’ve read has any substance, nor have they the mind to enquire whether the person posting a particular story has firsthand knowledge of what they’re asserting.

I bought your book immediately on publication and thought that you broached the difficult section concerning Peter’s arrest in 1975 judiciously, presenting evidence and hitherto unpublished details – most notably excerpts from the court transcripts – which had previously not been in the public domain. I also admired how you argued, analysed and debated how the incident was reported by the press at the time, i.e. bringing to light what was included and, more importantly, what was omitted from those articles, and the impact these embroidered stories have had on public opinion. It was also something of an eyeopener to learn that the so-called ‘Kennedy Gardens Incident’, which has been held up repeatedly by Peter’s detractors over the years as “evidence” of his supposed sexual orientation, actually originated on Wikipedia[1]. In all probably this yarn was referred to by the trio of old fishwives witnessed by Rick Bentham [see previous email] on the ‘Minder’ forum when they decided months before publication what would and would not be contained in your book. Is it any wonder why such people choose to secrete themselves behind usernames, otherwise they might be taken to task over the utter crap they disseminate online.

Keep up the excellent work, Tina, and don’t let the morons and lame-brains grind you down.

Best Wishes,

Derrick Jackson

Hello,

Think you’ll find that one of those old fishwives was none other than the notorious K**** T*****, who inevitably went on to initiate a hate campaign against the Minder Forum and its admin [see Brian Gough’s earlier email]. Harassing other people seems to be a bit of a habit.

Tony Ashton

Dear Tina,

There’s a lot of interesting points here about your excellent book (bought it on the day it was published) and about the tragic minority who attack authors and their works online.

Of course, it comes as no surprise to learn that those early “reviews” posted on Amazon were puerile responses from ridiculous middle-aged men who had been banned from your Peter Wyngarde Facebook group because they were incapable of conducting themselves like adults. If their masculinity is so fragile that they feel compelled to exact revenge through the back door for such an insignificant action, then I suggest they’re not only cowards but also in need of serious psychiatric help.

It makes me wonder what contribution these infantile knuckle draggers have made to the world apart from attempting to pull others down to their level. They haven’t the imagination to set up a website or Facebook group of their own so resort to agitating and trying to spoil other’s enjoyment. They’re equally incapable of writing a book, so strive to destroy that. How desperately sad they are. I’m almost tempted to pity them.

According to the sleeve note of your book by world renowned actor, director and author, Steven Berkoff, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A life Amongst Strangers’ is, “An intimate biography that is elegantly crafted, intensively researched, and presented with the utmost honour.” This is a man who actually knows what he’s talking about. The fact that a couple of manbabies from the arse-end of nowhere have decided to have a hissy fit on a public forum is flotsam and jetsam; nothing more than the sweepings left after a party they were not invited to.

Be proud of what you’ve done Tina. Just remember, men with tiny ding-a-lings compensate for their inadequacy by attacking women from behind computer screens.

Alison Crosby

Hi!

I agree entirely with Alison Crosby [see above]. I saw a review of ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ which had been written by someone called Paul Kemp who wrote ENTIRELY IN CAPITAL LETTERS AS IF HE’S SHOUTING EVERYTHING. Obviously desperate to get noticed. I decided to check out his other book ‘reviews’ and found that he’d doled out the same treatment to several other books and goods: 1-Star, angry, overtly acrimonious claptrap. Had previously purchased a book about the former Chelsea FC owner – Russian oligarch, Roman Abramovich, who he clearly despises, so he decided to attack the author with a rant laced with atrocious spelling and even worse grammar (evidently doesn’t read enough). It’s a shame that authors can’t give reviews of their readers. If someone like this is incapable of writing in a reasonably coherent fashion, how in the name of Christ can they possibly read and understand what an author is trying to say to them?

Dave Wheeler

Dear Tina,

Agree with both Alison Crosby and Dave Wheeler [see previous 2 emails].

Some men can’t deal with being put in their place by a woman. They feel emasculated and need to claw back control somehow. Posting abuse – or as in this case, personal attacks in the form of a book review – makes them feel empowered. They’re very, very sad people.

Doug Jackson

To anyone who reads this.

Regarding the discussion about book reviews: Such appraisals are completely subjective. The problem with the examination of biographies is that they’re often coloured by what the reader wants and expects rather than what is the truth. If the reader is willing to approach a work objectively then the probability is they’d enjoy the account far more and actually learn something. Unfortunately, some people set out with preconceived ideas about the subject, but when those assumptions and prejudgments are not met, they find fault with the book and lash out at the author.

I read one “review” of ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ from someone who appeared interested only in Alan Bates. In fact, over the course of three very short passages he mentioned Bates’ name no fewer than four times. I suggested to him that if Bates was his primary interest, then perhaps he should have bought a book about him rather than one about Peter Wyngarde. Needless to say, my recommendation went clean over his head.

Very few people knew or got close to Peter Wyngarde. He seldom gave interviews after the Jason King era for good reason and rarely, if ever, spoke about his private life. Much of what we did know about him prior to the publication of Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins book was based entirely on tabloid gossip and postulation. The only certainty now is that we actually knew f**k all! For sure, there are some factions that had already claimed P.W. as one of their own and were wholly pissed off to learn that (God forbid!) Wyngarde loved and was close to a woman; their subsequent heterophobia and the undisguised venom aimed at Ms Wyngarde-Hopkins has been well documented.

People need to understand that it’s not the responsibility of a biographer to uphold our preconceived ideas or wild speculation about a well-known personality. The blame if we end up feeling disappointed, lies entirely with us.

Scott Moore

Dear Tina,

I spotted this scan from your book (see image, right) online some time ago and meant to send it to you, but with one thing and another I never seemed to have had the time. Posted by someone with the username ‘Lemeneuxchex’ (has to be a he as all but a couple of his 200+ “friends” are female sex workers!), who appears to be mocking you for stating that the character Peter played in the stage version of Dracula was Vivorde Szekles. Well, you are absolutely correct. I went to see the play in early 1975 at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford and still have the programme and ticket stub (see below).

Right: From page 254 of ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’

The guy also prattles on about other stuff in your book which I don’t remember reading it the same way as he does. Maybe he’s spent too much time w****ing, sorry, chatting to his lady “friends” online and his brain has been fried? Anyway, seems to have a bit of an axe to grind or maybe he’s just another one of those with too much time on his hands who seem to plague social media these days. Anyway, I never take much notice of people who spend their time making accusatory statements but don’t have the balls to put their real name to it.

Ed Greenhoff

____________

Dear Ed,

This has been brought to my attention before. As can clearly be seen from the cast list in the original theatre programme from the ‘Dracula‘ tour, I was correct.

I understand that ‘Lemeneuxchex’ also asserts that I claim in the book that Peter and I had planned to have a baby when, and I quote, “she [me] was 57 and he [Peter] was 90″, adding sarcastically, “I’d have liked to have seen that!” Obviously, he’s incapable of following the simple timeline set out in the biography. I, in fact, made mention of a conversation that Peter and I had had in relation to this subject on Page 381 which, in the chronology of the book, happened in the early 2000s – NOT as ‘Lemeneuxchex’ suggested, within the final year of Peter’s life. Indeed, at the time that Peter passed away, I had not yet reached the age of 57, which brings into question the reliability of his sources.

It was also asserted by ‘Lemeneuxchex’ that I’d stated in the book that Peter had “changed” his Last Will and Testament in my favour during the final week of his life. This is utterly untrue. In fact, I quite clearly state on Page 473 that Peter had written and dated his Will on 1st November 2017. This was the only such document he made – naming me as the sole beneficiary. He was never to amend or rewrite it at any time thereafter.

He would also state the following: “She [me] tried to have us believe that he [Peter] had rewritten his Will and made a 3-hour recording while under the influence of Morphine.” Well actually, I didn’t! On Page 488, I make it abundantly clear that the audio recording was made by Peter and Thomas Bowington (Peter’s agent and friend) on the evening of 10th January 2018. The very first dose of Morphine was administered to Peter several days later, as is reported on Page 492.

I presume that each of these imagined ‘inaccuracies’ and ‘inconsistencies’ were posted online to supposedly prove that I’d been “lying” in the book, but as anyone who has actually read it and is able to follow a straightforward timeline will have seen, the only deceitfulness here is ‘Lemeneuxchex’s’ own. I can only conclude one of three things: either he is incapable of following the text in sequence; he didn’t read the book himself and was relying on (inaccurate) information fed to him by a third party or, in his haste to point an accusing finger in my direction, he let his mouth start something his brain couldn’t finish. And that, Ed, is why people like this won’t put their real name to the crap they post online!

Hi Tina,

Re. Ed Greenhoff’s post about the ludicrous Lemeneuxchex [see above]. Seems to be well aware of what he is – proudly describing himself as a “Part time troll’.

Terry Haslem

---

Hello Tina,

What a first class moron!! Not even to be pitied, only to be laughed at!! Part-time troll – full-time idiot!

Diane Brierley

Hi,

What benefit do these morons get from making constant claims and remarks, trying to belittle someone head and shoulders above them?

Dennis Brody

Dear Tina,

I often liken our use of the Internet to two people on a seesaw. If we all play nice, we all have a good time, but when you get someone like our friend Lemeneuxchex whose only intent is to weigh down one end with negativity, hate and abuse – all the attributes of a proud troll – then everyone loses out.

Paul Lucas

Dear Tina,

I bought your book after reading the infamous ‘Lazarus’ a-hem “review” on Amazon. I purchased it because I didn’t believe anything in print could possibly be as bad as he insisted and I’m so glad I did. It really is a gem and quite possibly the best actor biography I’ve ever read. On completing it I immediately gave it a five-star thumbs up on Amazon.

That said, it’s about time that Amazon got on top of these Trolls. A personal attack on an author does not constitute a review. I actually complained to Amazon about the tripe posted by ‘Lazarus’. I doubt I was alone. No one should ever put anything into print or online that they’re too cowardly to attach their name to.

Best Wishes and, again, brilliant book.

Jeffrey Tunstall

P.S. Latterly discovered that ‘Lazarus’ is in fact the a***hole who penned the disgusting obituary (sic) published by The Guardian on the occasion of Peter Wyngarde’s passing. Cowardly b*****d!

_____________

Hello Jeffrey,

Thank you for getting in touch; I’m of course delighted that you enjoyed the book.

‘Lazarus’ claims to have been a member of the Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society. As I recall, he joined our Facebook group in 2012, but was with us for no more than 2 or 3 months before being kicked out and banned for repeatedly posting homophobic slogans on our Facebook group page. He initially contacted me back in 2002 via our original website which ran from 1999 until 2008 under another of his aliases, ‘Pete Stampede’, claiming to be a fan, but since then has done nothing but attack Peter and me. This appears to be a pattern that several online bullies and trolls have followed over recent years; they join the Society, behave in a manner that results in them being removed from our Facebook group, retaliate by attacking me, but when they realise they’re getting nowhere with that, they turn to abusing Peter. It’s the type of behaviour you might expect from a gaggle of silly schoolgirls, not a bunch of middle-aged men!

Tina

See also category further down this page entitled, ‘THOUGHTS ON… internet trolls and concerns regarding the future of Fandom‘.

The following: Cut and pasted verbatim. All spelling and grammar are as written at the time.

Dear Ms Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Worth pointing out that G**** G****** [see above] is a regular poster on the alleged comedy forum Cook’d and Bomb’d, and he is widely disliked there too. A genuinely nasty and bitter little man who, for his own reasons, appears to think he is a contemporary of various light entertainers and actors from the seventies instead of a fawning acolyte.

Stanley Moon

Dear Tina,

I remember reading with disgust, Mr G******’s ‘obituary’ in The Guardian in January 2018.

This is the type of man who will eventually leave this world without having achieved anything of note or worth, or deserving respect. He won’t qualify for an obituary because no one will remember or even care who he was. The sum total of his life will equate to nothing more than a moment in time when he was reviled and pitied in equal measure because all he could think to do when he learned a fellow human being had passed away was to attack him.

R.I.P. Peter.

Bob Leyton

Dear Tina,

I am utterly delighted that, in spite of the best efforts of people like the above described, your book has been such a huge success. You know, the book buying public aren’t stupid. They can see clean through the type of bile spewed by nonentities like this, and I know that there are thousands of Wyngarde fans out there who are grateful to you for finally putting the record straight. The very fact that the G**** G******’s of this world are royally pissed off delights me no end.

With every best wish,

Mike Diken

Hello Tina,

I remember vividly the appalling behaviour of that Guardian journalist on the Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society Facebook group page [see earlier post] and how, in an act of revenge, he went on to write that shocking ‘Obituary’ which was published just a few days after Peter’s death [The Guardian – 19.01.18]. What kind of a person does it take to do such a thing? I can’t think of a word bad enough to describe him; he is beyond contempt, and yet I suspect he is still supremely pleased with himself.

Reading his email to you from 2002 [also part of earlier post]: I recall him accusing you in or around 2012/13 of being a “liar” over Peter’s claim that he’d studied at Oxford when he was clearly aware of it being mentioned elsewhere prior to this[1]. He really is a piece of work!

I also remember him attacking you when you stated, quite correctly, that author Donald Spoto (he of the disputed biography, ‘Otherwise Engaged: The Life of Alan Bates’), was a former Theologian. I was amongst the first of many to put him straight. This was, I recall, just the first of a series of baseless accusations that inevitably saw him removed from the P.W. group. I suspect he’s the type of man who’s unaccustomed to anyone standing their ground and refusing to be bullied, hence the continued vitriol.

Keep up the excellent work, Tina. Your devotion to the man you loved and who clearly loved you, is admirable, as is your fortitude in facing down some truly atrocious people. Just remember that Peter’s real fans, and there are thousands of us all around the word, are grateful to you for keeping his name in the public domain.

With every best wish,

Diane B.

[1]: See earlier post signed, ‘Pete Stampede’ from 2002

Dear Tina,

Reading it [‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’] at the moment and, so far (I think I am up to about 1966) it really shows how much more than Jason King he really was. The book really is excellent and opens him up as a three dimensional real person.

Patrick Nash

Dear Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Just a note to say that I have just finished reading your book ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’. What a great tribute to the man and the actor. Was there at Network’s 50th at Portmeirion, and when Peter Wyngarde entered the Hercules Hall the roof rose about six foot to mighty applause. A very treasured memory. Many thanks for writing the book.

Kind Regards,

Robert Campbell

Dear Tina,

I just wanted to say what a fabulous book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ is. It was a fascinating read – especially the second-half, which is easily the most impressive part of the story. So detailed is it and so well written, that one would have to have a heart of stone not to well up in the last few pages. I personally found it very painful.

As I read ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’, I wondered whether Peter himself, aside from his various poems and prose included in the book, had co-written the book himself before he passed away, or whether it was wholly a cathartic work from you, the author?

With all of my best wishes,

Camilla Semoh

_________________

Dear Camila,

Thank you so very much for taking the time to write. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the book.

A fair amount of the book was based on Peter’s own writings, as he had started work on his autobiography around 12 months before he passed away. I also have a huge number of text messages and private letters that he wrote to both me and others (he kept a record of every letter he sent from the early 50s onward), so I was able to interject his thoughts and feelings in his own words.

Take Care!

Tina

Dear Tina,

Firstly, I wanted to thank you for agreeing to donate a copy of your biography, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ to our film and television archive. It is a valuable addition and gratefully received.

I’ve had the great pleasure of perusing the book myself and I have to say that I’ve never experienced such a vivid account of an actors life before. This could only have been achieved by an author with first-hand experience of her subject, since the elucidation of every moment spent with Wyngarde; the air you shared, the situations, sights, sounds and smells are those of a person with only the most intimate knowledge. I thank you on behalf of every fan for your generosity in sharing his life and career with us.

Dr Phil Chapman

Dear Tina,

I am half way through your book. It’s very well written and a joy to read. Well done!

MontgomeryHunstanton (Via Twitter)

Dear Tina,

My sister-in-law has asked me to relay a message to you concerning your book ‘Peter Wyngarde – A Life Amongst Strangers’ as she does not use social media.

She recently bought the book as a casual viewer of Peter’s work and in her words “she could not put it down”. She found his life story and the recollections of your shared life astounding, fascinating and wonderful. She also wished to say that this was the best written book she had read in the last few years. She relays absolute respect to yourself and your work. For myself, I totally concur with her. It is a truly wonderful book.

Ann Benson

Dear Tina,

I finished your exceptional book at the weekend and wanted to congratulate you on such an informative and valuable contribution to theatre and film history,

It was quite treat to read about an actor from someone that actually knew him. The detail and extent of research you’d done was extraordinary, and I think that anyone who would give it less than 5 stars is being wholly dishonest. I for one have never read a more illuminating biography.

I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank you for continuing to be such a bulwark of Mr Wyngarde’s legacy and reputation, despite the slings and arrows of the fatuous minority. You were there. They were not and that, I’m afraid to say, will irk the jealous and resentful.

Keep up the good work as there really is a great many of us out here that appreciate and support you and everything you do.

With my regards,

Warren Anders

Hello Tina,

Regarding book (or any type of) reviews [see earlier posts]: On one occasion I was about to buy a book from Amazon and happened to spot that someone had given it a 1-star “review”. I’d noticed the name of this particular critic because a few days earlier I’d seen he’d given a completely different book the exact same treatment. I decided to check out his Profile and found that, on just one day alone, he’d given no fewer than 176 books 1-star “reviews”. In the absence of any kind of morals or decency, arbitrarily trashing other people’s work was obviously some kind of a hobby to him. What a sad, morally bankrupt piece of trash.

Companies like Amazon should start looking into stuff like this and ban the culprits or, better still, just name and shame them. Idiots who clearly haven’t the intelligence to do anything more constructive with their time should be ostracised from the Internet altogether as they’re ruining it for the gifted and talented, and those like myself who wish learn from them.

Your book, by the way, is excellent. Thank you for taking the time to write it.

John Cahill

Hello Tina,

I read online the other day a piece of crap written by someone with only the most rudimentary education which states that your entire book is a lie because, ahem, you claim that you and Mr Wyngarde paid for a villa in France in 2003 using Francs.

From 2000 until 2011, I worked for British Airways at Carcassonne Airport in the South of France so I can vouch for the fact that after France adopted the Euro on 1st January, 2002, most airports, hotels, cafes, restaurants, petrol stations, railway stations and shops, especially in the resort towns, continued to accept them. There was a very simple reason for this: none of the proprietors of those establishments were willing to turn custom away, and the banks were still happy to exchange the old currency.

Because France sees a lot of people travelling through it from Spain, Italy, Germany etc., most shops, hotels and petrol stations, especially in the border regions, had always accepted Spanish Pesetas, German Marks and Italian Lira. Even today, Swiss Francs are accepted as readily as the Euro. So our know-it-all friend is most definitely in error.

Great Website. Excellent book. Keep up the good work.

With Regards,

Ava Weatherford

Dear Tina,

I’ve just finished your book about Peter Wyngarde. Absolutely superb! The ending was very poignant as my father passed away last November in almost identical circumstances. Thankyou for writing this book and I have to say I still regularly watch Department S and Jason Klingon DVD as they’ve always been great favourites of mine. Very best wishes,

Tony Ashton

______________________

Dear Tony,

It is so kind of you to take the time to let me know; I’m so glad that you enjoyed it. I’m also desperately sorry to hear about your Dad. I wrote the final two chapters of the book within weeks of Peter passing away so it was really raw at the time (it still is). My thoughts are of course with you.

Do Take Care!

Tina

Hi’ya Tina,

With reference to the kn*b-end “reviewer” [see previous two messages]. I hope you’ll like the attached cartoon.

All the best,

Carl Harrison

Dear Tina,

Oh  my  God! Just seen a 1-star “review” of your book in which the “reviewer” said that the reason for their low appraisal was because, wait for it….: “There was too much detail”.  It  just  makes  you  want  to give up that  anybody  can  be  that  f*****g ridiculous. They  obviously  don’t  realise that  everyone  else can see  how  stupid  they  are  either, publishing such  a foolish statement: “I  got   too  much  for   my money  so  I  want  to  complain!” Maybe  they  can’t  actually  read  and  they  just  wanted pictures ,  or better still a  colouring  book . Un-f*****g-believable!!!  

Keep up the excellent work. This website is the best on the ‘net and your book is utterly brilliant. Peter’s legacy is in the best possible hands.

Neil Collier

Too much detail? You just can’t please some people. I suspect that if the Angel Gabriel was to write an autobiography and have it blessed by Jesus Christ himself there’d be someone who’d complain. They live for it, and inevitably the first in line are always those who have achieved absolutely nothing themselves. I pity them.

The book is a gem.

Denise Parry

Dear Tina,

I finished reading your wonderful book at the weekend and wanted to thank you for sharing your knowledge of Peter Wyngarde with those of us who appreciate your love and devotion to him. No one has done more to promote and protect his name. As Mr Thomas Bowington rightly put it, if it hadn’t been for you Peter would have died alone thanks to his dispassionate friends and absent family.

Reading through earlier emails, it’s apparent that the usual dregs of society have been falling over themselves to have a dig. Regrettably, this type of behaviour is becoming increasingly prevalent, which makes me wonder if it’s the Internet that has bred these rats, or has society just allowed its mask to slip? Whatever the reason it’s just out and out cowardice, there’s no other word for it.

As has previously been discussed, misogyny plays a huge part in online trolling. Cult TV “Fandom” is pretty much a male-dominated area, with the vast majority of fan groups and websites administered by men. While it would be unfair to tar all of them with the same brush, there are some amongst them who actually believe they have some kind of authority and while they’ll pay the ‘little woman’ lip service, God forbid that she might not only be capable of doing what they do, but is accomplished enough to better them.

On the subject to reviews:- Personal attacks on an author is not a review, nor is having a hissy fit because a person’s own absurd assumptions have not been met. As strange as it might sound, it’s not an author’s responsibility to address every cretin’s wild conjecture. You’d have thought that Darwinism would have sorted these morons out by now but, unhappily, it never seems to.

Never forget that it’s not a crime to love someone, regardless of what a few imbeciles might say. Your support and devotion to Peter, both during his life and since his death is something to be admired, not derided by a group of deadbeats who wouldn’t understand the meaning of these words. No one has the right to interfere in anyone else’s private business or to decide who or what that person is. If these simpletons had half the guts, decency and determination that you’ve demonstrated since Peter passed away, they’d be twice the men they are now.

Gavin Hesketh

Dear Tina,

I was fortunate enough to receive your book as a Christmas gift, and read it over the course of just 2 days, I couldn’t put it down.

I feel that I now understand Mr Wyngarde so much more than I could ever have dreamed, and I thank you for your devotion to your subject. It is hard to believe that you are a first time author, as you painted such an eloquent and vivid picture of Wyngarde, both as a man and an performer.

As for the idiotic detractors that haven’t a good word for your work: there are usually two sorts that attack biographers and they’re usually the type that are mentioned in the book, and those that are not. The latter are the type that can’t abide being ignored, so they find fault in everything you say and do. The former, and these are often the most bitter and acerbic, are those that do feature, have behaved appallingly and were proud of their actions at the time, but who don’t wish the world to know about them. You could almost say that their attempts to discredit you is a backhanded way of them acknowledging their misdeeds. They know they are lying, but if they can convince other people that you’re a vile shit, it detracts from their transgressions.

While I’m not the religious type, in the final days of our lives there’s always a reckoning because the truth is, we really don’t know what’s in store for us on the “other side”. It’s this uncertainty that evokes our conscious to ask some pretty inconvenient questions, simply because we don’t know what (or who?) might await us. They may lack principles now, dear lady, but when the time comes to face their own mortality, I assure you they won’t be able to avoid a moral judgement of their own making.

Stay strong, stick to your guns, and don’t let the bastards grind you down. You’ve done Wyngarde proud.

James Whittaker, Alford

Dear Tina,

Many thanks for posting my recent Amazon review (14/1/2021) of your brilliant new biography of Peter Wyngarde on your excellent website. I was wondering if it would be possible for you to sign my copy (or if easier if I order another copy direct from your good self?).

I will order some badges and a “Night of the Eagle” T-shirt soon as well.

Have you seen the updated revised edition (published in 2019) of “Peter Wyngarde – King of TV” by Roger Langley (originally published in 2012)? It includes two extra chapters, more photographs and an extract from a letter which the author claims was written by Peter to the Mr Langley in 2012:

“Dear Roger, what can I say I’m speechless! What a lot of hard work! It must have been a true labour of love

and for that I thank you. Forgive the scribble but I’m writing on my knee, on my balcony and it is rather awkward. Once more thank you for your magnificent effort. May I take the opportunity to wish you the best in your undertakings and hope we will be in touch in the near future. With grateful thanks, Yours, Peter”

I was wondering about this as I read that you related that when Mr Langley initially contacted Peter he was dismissive, which the author himself alludes to:

“This biography of Peter Wyngarde, the first edition of which appeared in 2012, was being extensively revised and updated in order to be republished, when the sad news emerged that the actor had passed away…This book is not, as some refer to biographies, an “official” account, or “authorised”…the book is not that of a collaboration. In fact I did ask – more than once – if the actor if I could work with him on a much needed and long overdue biography. His saucy reply was that he planned to write his own life story and the results, as such, would come from “the horse’s mouth”…In the end, I decided to prepare my tribute and leave Mr Wyngarde in peace, having pestered him enough during several years.” (extract of 2019 Foreword).

Roger Langley’s website: http://www.peterwyngarde.me.uk/index.htm

If you haven’t seen his updated revised book I would be willing to send you a copy if you wanted to write a critical review for your site? It may be of interest to PW fans and readers of your blog. My own view is that Mr Langley’s book is okay as an introductory primer as far as it goes but at only a slim 150 pages is nowhere near as in depth or fascinating as your superb effort!

I look forward to your reply.

Take care and stay safe,

Kind regards,

Robert Best, Sussex

______________________

Hello Robert, 

How lovely to hear from you. Yes, of course I’d be delighted to sign a copy of the book for you.

No, I haven’t seen the 2nd Edition of Roger Langley’s book. Someone did give me a copy of the 1st edition a few years back. I can’t be 100% sure what Peter thought of Mr Langley’s work; on the one hand he said he didn’t know that a biography had been written, but then R.L. says he knew all about it.

I have absolutely no reason to doubt that Mr Langley is being truthful when he says that Peter wrote to him. I do, however, recall an incident when Peter and I was at Portmeirion for the 50th Anniversary celebration in September/October 2017, and as we were returning to the hotel after the Q&A session, two fans (both members of the Official Society) approached us to ask for an autograph. One of the guys handed Peter a copy of Mr Langley’s book which he duly looked over, but stated that he hadn’t seen or ever heard of the book before (I’m sure the two gents concerned would vouch for this). Perhaps he simply believed that the volume he’d been handed was different publication(?).

By the way, many, many thanks for your very kind and generous review of my book – I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. 

Take Care!

Tina 

Dear Tina,

With reference to Robert Best’s email. (See above).

I have both the 1st and 2nd edition of Roger Langley’s book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: King of TV’, and while he named you in the acknowledgement section of the former, there wasn’t so much as a cursorary nod in your direction even though the author admitted to relying on your work the first time around. As far as I can see, apart from a few additional paragraphs, the text is almost identical, so there really should be some show of appreciation now.

It’s also blatantly obvious that the theatre and TV credits at the back of Langley’s book have been copied in their entity from your website. On the rare occasions that you have been unable to identify a character which Wyngarde played on stage or on screen, guess what? Langley’s list is missing it too.

I’m more than aware that you have never been precious about the research you’ve done and posted on your websites, and everyone I know that has ever had the pleasure of either contacting you or speaking with you directly have spoken well of you, saying how generous and approachable you are. So why has Roger Langley not done the decent thing and give credit where it’s due?

John Manley, Taunton

__________

Dear John,

I’m grateful for your comments and observations.

While I’m well aware that people take information, sometimes wholesale, from this website – this includes professional journalists and authors – I’m not interested in causing bad feeling over it; there’s far too much of that in ‘fandom’ at the moment – none of us need any more.

As far as I’m concerned, Mr Langley’s book is a very positive work about Peter, and as far as I’m concerned, anything that helps to keep Peter’s name in the public domain in a constructive way can only be a good thing.

Take Care!

Tina

Dear Madam,

For some time now I’ve been following your determined battle to correct the misinformation about Peter Wyngarde in Donald Spoto’s biography, ‘Otherwise Engaged – The Life of Alan Bates’. I am of course aware of the tiny group of amateur critics that cling increasingly desperately to Spoto’s every word; treating his version of events as if they were inviolable.  

When ‘Otherwise Engaged…’ was published in 2007, it was given a lukewarm reception by Bates friends and fans alike, who questioned Spoto’s writing style and his obvious lack of research. This is what one long-term Bates fan had to say about it: “One wonders why the Bates family entrusted this task to an American writer who is better known for production-line bios of Hollywood stars and “celebrities” rather than serious actors.” And, Spoto shows little knowledge or understanding of the UK or the British theatre or cinema. Much of the material “quoting” Bates read suspiciously like a cut and paste job.”

Amanda S. Stephenson, a long-time friend of Bates, stated the following immediately after the book was published: “I knew Alan well and this book was never properly researched. He [Spoto] didn’t even talk about Gene Hackman because he could hardly wait to talk about Alan’s secret gay life.”

It’s telling that while your use of the word “Francs” rather than “Euros” has been held up by the slow-witted to (purportedly) prove beyond any shadow of a doubt that your book is a work of fiction and yet not a word has been heard from the same quarter about Donald Spoto’s lack of attention to the facts in his work. For example, Spoto quotes a female source as saying that the poet and novelist, Brendan Behan, reminded her of “another Welshman, Richard Burton”, and yet Spoto fails to point out that Behan was in fact Irish. He also refers to Diane Cilento as an “English actress” when it’s a well-known fact that she was born and bred in Mooloolaba, Australia. There have been countless other errors identified in both this book and Spoto’s other biographies, but all have seemingly been airbrushed over by those people whose sole ambition in life is trying to wrong-foot you. 

As a literary critic myself, I will say with hand on heart that ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ is a far superior book to ‘Otherwise Engaged – The Life of Alan Bates’. As opposed to the latter, it has been meticulously researched and has a flowing, easy-to-read style that is in stark contrast to Donald Spoto’s. Put side-by-side, one would never suspect that it’s ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ that had been written by a first-time author.

Of course, there’s always an advantage to writing about a subject one is familiar with. Spoto is merely a jobbing author who was commissioned to write a book about a person he had never met and whose work he was clearly unfamiliar with. Conversely, you knew Peter Wyngarde intimately; this is abundantly clear in the minutely detailed way in which you have been able to portray your subject. I could almost hear Wyngarde’s voice when reading the words of his letters, texts and private conversations with you and others. It’s absolutely impossible to imitate this. Spoto, on the other hand was unable to draw on any personal knowledge of Bates and so his book lacks the colour, texture and insights of your biography. Thank you for sharing it with those of us who genuinely admire Peter Wyngarde, both as an actor and a man.

*D.M.Y., Islington, London.

*Based on previous experience, I’ve chosen not to post the full name of the person who wrote the above email, as there would be a distinct possibility he’d be sought out and abused by some particularly vicious Trolls.

Dear Tina,

I’ve just finished reading your book. What a wonderfully entertaining, meticulously researched and extremely touching piece of work.  I  understand  how  difficult  it   must have been  for  you sharing  something  so personal. I’ve  never been  in  your situation (although obviously  I  have  lost  people/ family  I  care  about ) and  am  never  likely  to  be, so  I’d  never  claim  to be  an  expert,   but  I  know that  sometimes  just  giving  ‘voice’  to your  feelings  can  help , even  if  only  by a  minuscule  amount. I hope   it  helps  you  in  some  small  way  anyway.

The  note at the end of the book that  Peter  left  for you [see right] was  so  special.  It  was really  lovely. and  it  made me  cry. The love  he  expressed   in  that  little   note  is   something  no one can  ever  take  from you ,  no  matter how many  childish threats  and  poison  anyone   throws  at  you.  I’m  struggling  to  find  the  right  words here, I’m trying  not  to sound  pompous so forgive  me  if  I get  it  wrong,  but  the  love  he felt  for  you  in the  moments that he  wrote  that  note  was  so real  and  so deep  that  even though  he’s not  here,  it  still  exists,  somewhere,  it  must do.   I  hope you  know   what  I  mean.

Bless you for keeping Peter’s name alive.

Sara-Jane Kaleen

Dear Tina,

People put labels on others so that they can understand the world. It has nothing to do with the person they’re labelling.

Kat Welsby, Chipping Sodbury

Hi Tina!

I’ve been fascinated by Peter for years – his look, his style and his amazing voice. What a talent.

I’ve just finished reading your wonderful book, and found it provoked so many emotions; some positive and some less so – sadness and anger mainly, that this towering talent could be denied professional and personal happiness and fulfilment by tiny-minded pedlars of filth and sleaze. What also upsets me is that we were denied the pleasure of seeing him on stage and screen, chewing up scenery and leaving other actors floundering in his wake. God the world was better, more interesting and stylish with him in it. I miss him.

Steve Judge

Dear Tina,

Firstly, thank you for adding me to the group. Secondly, I was bought a copy of your wonderful book for my birthday. I just wanted to let you know that I find both very enjoyable and very moving too. I am happy to write something in appreciation of it in the group if you like, though simply wanted to offer my sincere thanks to to you for writing it.

All the best.

Cris Ramis

________________

Hello Cristian,

It’s so kind of you to contact me; I’m pleased that you enjoyed the book. You’d be most welcome to write something from either the Facebook group or our website. Thank you so very much, and with all my best wishes,

Tina

Thoughts On… Wikipedia and the damage it’s done over the years to Peter’s reputation

Dear Tina,

What a nerve Wikipedia have to beg monetary contributions from people when the vast majority of what’s on there is utter crap. It’s just as well that there are websites like this that are able to set the record straight.

Keep up the excellent work.

Ian M. Smith

Dear Miss Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Ah, yes – Wikipedia. As per your good self, I too am at a loss as to why the smart asses that admin the Peter Wyngarde biography continue to insist that Wyngarde was alone amongst the acting community for sexing up his biography.

As you’ve already stated on your website, Marlon Brando and Errol Flynn both embellished their bio’s, as did numerous other actors, especially in Hollywood. Take one of your own favorites, Jay Robinson, who was perhaps best known for playing Emperor Caligula in ‘The Robe’ and its sequel, ‘Demetrius and The Gladiators’. He claimed that he was Anglo/American, and that he’d appeared in numerous plays in England before moving here to the States. In actual fact, he was born in New York to American parents, and brought up in Florida.

Robinson’s agent issued a 16-page biography for the press on the release of ‘The Robe’ in 1953 which gave out that he was 27-years old when, in fact he was just 22 when the film was shot the previous year. If the Wiki guys don’t get this and continue to depict Peter Wyngarde’s professional account of his life as atypical of those within the acting profession, then they should consider writing about something a little less complex than actors.

Michael Hudson, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Hi Tina,

It’s curious that Wikipedia should determine from an innocuous comment in your book that you were claiming Dorinda Stevens was either “bisexual” or “a lesbian”, and yet they are still insisting that Peter passed away from a “undefined illness”, even though you state clearly in the book what the condition(s) were.

I also find it incredibly distasteful that they also continue to quote from the crap written by G**** G****** in the 18.01.18 edition of The Guardian, in spite of it being roundly exposed for the vicious nonsense that it was, and G****** being sacked by the paper on account of it.

Just an observation.

Ian Jacobs

_________________

Hello Ian,

It’s what Admiral Lord Nelson had when he put his eye patch over his good eye and said, “I see no ships!”

Tina

Dear Tina,

I notice that Wikipedia are still quoting from G**** G******’s shameful ‘obituary’ [The Guardian online – 18th January, 2018]. They claim the following based entirely on G******’s blather: “An obituary reported that he lived partly on Social Security benefits”.

I read your book (excellent, by the way) in which you pooh-pooh this nonsense by stating facts. As you said in ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’, this myth was born out of an article in the Daily Mirror that was published immediately after the success of ‘Flash Gordon’, in which PW played General Klytus. Wikipedia’s so-called Verifiability(!) Policy insists that “articles should refer only to facts and interpretations verified in reliable, reputable print or online sources or in other reliable media.” G**** G******’s deplorable attack on Peter Wyngarde proves beyond doubt that not everything in print is “reliable” or “reputable”.

I also see that they’re still spouting the same drivel about “a similar arrest in the toilets at Kennedy Gardens in Birmingham the previous year, which resulted in a caution”, their “reliable facts” being taken from The Guardian (the very same newspaper that published G******’s universally criticised ‘obituary’), Stephan Richards ‘Crime Through Time’, which is notoriously error-strewn, the article’s from the BBC (online)/The Independent (online) – of 18.01.18. – both of which were plainly sourced from Wikipedia itself. It would be a joke if not for the fact that someone’s reputation iss at stake.

If it’s not too much of an imposition, what was G**** G******’s beef with Peter?

All the best,

Trevor Cashman

______________________

Dear Trevor,

You can find the answer to your question by clicking on the following: ‘Wikipedia – To Theheartofit….

Tina

Hello Tina,

Just been reading many of the comments on this page and was especially shocked to learn about the amount of misinformation there is out there about Peter. It must have been appalling for him to have to live knowing that there are such malicious and unthinking people out there. As someone has already stated, whatever has happened to ‘Do unto others as you would have done unto you’?

As has quite rightly been highlighted on this page, Wikipedia (W.P.) has much to answer for. I recall them insisting at one time that Peter had been given a police caution in 1974, supposedly for importuning in Birmingham. They asserted that the information had come from a book entitled, ‘Crime Through Time: the Black Museum’ by Stephen Richards. The trouble was there was no such claim in the book. But even if this allegation had been in this publication, what made Wiki believe that the Richard’s was correct? It was actually a very serious statement to repeat, especially as Mr Wyngarde was alive at the time this appeared on Wikipedia, and since much research has been done both by myself and other, there has been no evidence found to substantiate this declaration[1]. Had the Wiki lot stopped to consider for a second what impact such false information could have on someone’s life? Evidently not.

From Wikipedia, this blatant lie has since seeped into the public consciousness having been picked up by the press. I wonder if the person or persons responsible for posting it on W.P. have or ever will have the decency to apologise? I for one won’t be holding my breath! I’ve attempted to contribute to the Peter Wyngarde biography on W.P., but despite there being an open invitation to any and all of us add to the encyclopedia, my contribution(s) have immediately been deleted by those that have created the P.W. biography.

Another thing about those referred to above and the fuss they make over Peter embellishing his ‘biography’: As has been pointed out previously on this page, almost every actor did this. In addition to those personalities already mentioned, there’s William Hartnell. He claimed that his father was a farmer but latterly said he was a soldier who’d taken up stockbroking. Where’s the song and dance over that?

There is far too much reliance on W.P. by the press, bloggers, authors and the public in general. The people who compile these biographies and other articles on there are not philosophers and scholars they’re just ordinary Joes like the rest of us with no access to privilege knowledge than anyone else. They simply cherry pick what they think will pique the reader’s interest while discarding the information that doesn’t fit their agenda. In that they’re no different to the tabloid newspapers that feed off them.

Bless you Tina in you’re inexhaustible mission to expose the truth.

Austin Makinson

Dear Tina,

With reference to the comments by Austin Makinson [See previous message]:

Wow, I have found editing Wikipedia articles to be the exact opposite of Austin’s experience, including when doing occasional edits of the Peter Wyngarde article in the past. Wikipedia articles do not have an “agenda” as Austin says, other than being as complete, accurate and sourced as possible. Bogus, mischievous, opinionated or unsourced information does get added unfortunately, but it is fairly quickly removed or flagged as needing a source. This seems to be a good thing, and I assume it is what happened with the now-deleted reference to Crime Through Time book, and with Austin’s own contributions if they were not backed up by any sources other than his own conclusions. As we know from Tina’s book, Peter Wyngarde did fib about some key aspects of his biography for many years, and again from Tina’s book we know that some of that seems deeper-rooted than just being about publicity, so I don’t have a problem with that aspect being covered.

Andrew Humphrey, London

____________________

Dear Andrew,

I have to agree with Austin re. the damage Wikipedia have done to Peter’s reputation with the Birmingham lie. W.P. kept this blather on view for an inordinate amount of time, and TWICE reposted it after I myself removed it. Given that the media have since picked up on this myth, as have bloggers and those using social media forums, the individuals that jealously guard the P.W. ‘biography’ page should have the decency to publicly retract what they said and apologise for the damage caused.. I won’t be holding my breath either!

Tina

Hello Again, Tina –

I decided after rereading my email and Andrew Humphries reply [See above for both], that I’d try again to add a contribution to the Peter Wyngarde biography on Wikipedia. I doubt very much that it will be left on there for long, not least because they would never admit to being wrong. Here it is so it can be memorialised before they delete it.

Austin Makinson

Dear Tina,

I’ve been visiting this website for many years now and have meant to drop you a line to say “Thank You” for sharing all this wonderful stuff with us fans. I don’t think there’s any better, more detailed ‘site on the net and you should feel immensely proud of yourself for all the work you’ve obviously put in to this invaluable archive.

Anyway, f**k ’em girl. You’re worth a hundred-thousand of those sort.

Long Live The King!

Alex Gardner

____________

Hello Alex,

Thanks for your email.

Thank you for your support. I’m so pleased that you’ve enjoyed visiting this website over the years. As for the individual you refer to: After a decade of hearing the same motheaten accusations, misinformed conjecture and tedious gay pick-up line, you become oblivious to it. I would’ve thought that the backlash he received to his character assassination of Peter back in 2018 would’ve been enough even for him to understand that no one has the slightest interest in anything he has to say.

Tina

Dear Tina,

I just wanted to say how much I’ve been enjoying all the new articles you’ve added to this website over the last few months. I’ve especially liked the Fan Fiction section. I was also thought that the ‘Spectre of Peter Quint‘ piece was exceptional and ‘Wikipedia: To Theheartofit‘ was nothing short of jaw-dropping. I’ve locked horns with many a Keyboard Warrior/Troll/bully online over the years but I have to admit, I’ve never had another bloke try to hit on me. Bizarre.

Re. Austin Makinson’s email [see previous message], I don’t have a Facebook account either, simply because I’ve heard that it’s mainly populated by idiots who don’t seem able to coexist with anyone without causing trouble and attempting to spoil everyone else’s enjoyment of the Internet, so I don’t understand what this guy is trying to get at [see following email]. Again, bizarre.

Well, thanks for all the work you obviously put into this Website. It’s a credit to you.

Eddie Burns

Hi Tina!

I’ve been meaning to drop you a line for a few weeks now to thank you for publishing my article [see ‘Wikipedia: To Theheartofit’]

I did hear from a friend who is a member of your Facebook group that someone had questioned the validity of my enquiry into Wikipedia. Does it mean that only those with a FB account have any kind of legitimacy? Christ, you can join any one of the social media platforms and forums with little more than a username, so what makes someone with a name like R*****d T****s think he’s entitled to question me? Perhaps I touched a nerve. I mean, could he himself be involved in some way with this Wikipedia clique – even ‘Theheartof’ himself? Just a thought.

All the best,

Austin Makinson

Thoughts On… Misinformation about Peter in the media, in books and on the internet

Dear Miss Wyngarde Hopkins

I’ve been reading with much interest the letters/emails on your website, especially the debate regarding Peter Wyngarde’s supposed “relationship” with Alan Bates, the sole source of which appears to be Donald Spoto’s disputed biography, ‘Otherwise Engaged: The Life of Alan Bates’.

Despite being a gay man myself, I was sceptical of Spoto’s assertions, not least because of the reputation he has for his error-strewn books and pushing agendas. His 2014 biography of Sir Laurence Olivier was roundly panned by friends and family of the actor, as was his bio of Marilyn Monroe, for which he was not only described as being “arrogant and ignorant of the facts,” but also of having a “condescending attitude” towards those connected to Monroe who dared to challenge him.

It comes as no surprise to discover (courtesy of Wyngarde’s own writings) that this particular author had, yet again, opted for sensationalism over fact. Certainly that seems to be the case when discussing the “relationship” between Bates and Wyngarde. It was also no bombshell to read that some gay men (both ‘out’ and closeted), all of whom doubtless counted Wyngarde as one of their own, are now clinging desperately to the gospel according to Donald Spoto.

Mr. Spoto, who is himself openly gay and lives with his husband just outside Copenhagen, tends to be drawn to subjects that have a sniff of homosexuality about them, and unashamedly concentrates on that aspect at the expense of far more interesting areas of his subject’s life and career.

In respect of the atrocious treatment that has been doled out to you since your book was published: I have to say that the sight of some closet queen accusing you of using the whole of the first half of the book “trying to convince us that Wyngarde wasn’t gay,” is ridiculous to say the least. Did this person expected you to withhold photographs and other evidence simply to appease his misguided opinions? Evidently so.

If there’s one thing I find utterly repugnant as a gay man myself is some old poof bleating on about homophobia or some other ‘ism’ while oozing misogynism from every pour. God forbid that Peter Wyngarde, the assumed gay icon, actually loved a woman!

God bless you dear lady for all you have done, and continue to do, to promote Peter Wyngarde’s name and work. There are a lot of vicious people in the world but it doesn’t matter what they say or think, they will never change the truth.

Andrew Fowler, Cheltenham

Dear Tina,

I’m with Andrew Fowler and ‘D.M.Y. as far as Donald Spoto’s error-strewn books are concerned, and I doubt that anyone with an iota of intelligence would take as gospel his interpretation of Peter Wyngarde’s “relationship” with fellow actor, Alan Bates.

In addition to the misleading errors in the books already mentioned [see earlier emails from Andrew Fowler and ‘D.M.Y.], here are a few more that should cast further doubt on Mr Spoto’s spin and lack of research: In his book, “The Art Of Alfred Hitchcock”, which was published in 1977, Spoto claimed to have spent 1500+ hours watching and re-watching Hitchcock’s films, but then states that the character played by Joan Fontaine in ‘Suspicion’ has the surname “McKinlaw” when it is actually “McLaidlaw”. He also asserts that Anthony Dawson’s character in “Dial M For Murder” is “Swan Lesgate”. In fact, the character’s actual name is “Swann”, with two n’s, ‘though he poses as “Captain Lesgate” for a time during the film. Also, the famous director F.W. Murnau, is referred to as “Fred W. Murnau”, which he was never called.

In his biography, ‘Possessed: The Life of Joan Crawford’, Spoto attempts to disprove Christina Crawford’s infamous wire coat hanger incident from her book, ‘Mommy Dearest’, by stating that Joan only kept very expensive hangers in her wardrobe, not the common or garden wire type as described. Therefore the beating could not have taken place!

As for the much-criticised Marilyn Monroe biography’:- while working on the book, Spoto had enlisted genealogist, Roy Turner, to assist with his research. According to Marilyn archivist, David Marshall, Turner had told him that he had supplied a large amount of detailed research to Mr. Spoto, but when the book was eventually published, Spoto had altered some of that research; not all, but just enough to ensure that the story fitted the author’s agenda. Doesn’t that sound similar to what Peter Wyngarde claimed happened to him in relation to ‘Otherwise Engaged: The Life of Alan Bates’; that the facts had been altered in order to fit one of the major hooks of the book, namely the supposed sexual relationship between Bates and Wyngarde?

Just like the aforementioned author, the handful of rabble-rousers and contemptuous closet-queens that have been plaguing you since Mr Wyngarde passed have been cherry picking what best fits their narrative. By presenting Mr Spoto’s version of events as irrefutable “proof” they are, at best, making themselves appear utterly absurd.

With every best wish,

Ed Franklyn, North Bay, Ontario

Hi,

You may be delighted to know that those public toilets in Gloucester have now been demolished.

Quite by chance I met and subsequently worked with the arresting officer at Gloucestershire Police. The tactic of using Agent Provocateurs within the police service continued well into the 1990’s, and it really didn’t matter if one was guilty or not. At the local Magistrates Court, Senior Staff used to refer to it as “The Perverts Court”. All very distressing for a young man like myself (at the time who was in the closet). The most bizarre thing is that some of those officers involved in entrapment, early in their careers, became champions of diversity as they climbed the greasy pole to ingratiate themselves to their political masters. Total hypocrites.

Adrian Bird

______________________

Hello Adrian,

Thank you for your email.

There are some people who, despite having never met Peter and knowing nothing about this incident beyond what they’ve read in the tabloids, continue to contradict the man himself AND HE WAS THERE! Such arrogance appears to be a phenomenon of the Internet age, whereby random strangers profess to know more about a person and their lives than they do themselves.

When I was writing my book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers‘, I was given access to the original court transcripts, which had not been available to the press at the time. I was to include several exchanges between the magistrates, and both the prosecution and defence lawyers. This was the first time these conversations had ever been in print.

This piece above, which was written by Peter himself, explains how he viewed the matter. I expect that even THIS will be disputed by those individuals who believe that they are privy to information that Peter himself was not.

With Best Wishes,

Tina

Hi Tina,

This website is always interesting and informative and important in debunking the morass of misinformation from the ‘history’ numpties bestow on him. Keep posting!

Derek Stewart

Hello,

My Name is Peter. I come from Germany, and my English is not good. Sorry! I am a great fan from Department S. I saw the series in 1971 when I was 13 Years old. I am now 64 Years old, and I was ever now a big Fan of Jason King.

I wish you my very best thoughts.

Peter Weiland. 

Dear Miss Wyngarde-Hopkins,

Regarding the ‘Peter Wyngarde Was Gay Knitting Circle’.

According to the renowned Greek philosopher and polymath Aristotle, all bodies tend to move towards their natural place. In his model of the universe; the heavier the body, the more it will move toward its natural place. He therefore determined that the natural place for the earth was at the centre of the universe. He was wrong! If a man such as Aristotle can be wrong, it’s a cert that a handful of scrag-ends who never met Wyngarde and couldn’t find their own backsides with both hands and a map, are also mistaken.

Keep up the excellent work!

Paul Atkinson

Dear Tina,

I read your book recently and was really interested to see many of the documents the you mention in it [See The ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ Companion], and to read the parts that Peter himself had written for his own autobiography [click here].

I do wonder why the self-important ‘Peter Wyngarde Was Gay Knitting Circle’ are still clinging so determinedly to this repeatedly debunked credo (by this I mean invalidated by Peter’s own writings). Perhaps they have said so much and so loudly that they dare not give in now or risk losing face? Perhaps they’re just trying to validate their own mundane existence? Or are they just so incredibly stupid they don’t know when to shut up? (Delete where applicable).

Best Wishes,

Oliver Selby

Dear Tina,

Another interesting snippet that Wikipedia and the ‘Peter-Wyngarde-Was-Gay Brigade’ have (purposefully?) overlooked, this time from the Daily Mirror (19/01/18):- Peter said he was straight and denied claims of a relationship with Alan Bates. He said: “I’ve never had any doubt about my sexuality. I’m mad about women.”

For the professional doubters and nit-pickers, the full article can be found at, PressReader.com – Your favorite newspapers and magazines.

S. Pryce

Dear Tina,

I completely agree. Why does anyone think Peter’s personal life is any of their business? I can only suspect that some people who are morbidly jealous of Peter’s achievements, fame and charisma think they are cutting him down by spreading salacious rumours. The reality is that Peter’s real fans wouldn’t mind or care whatever he’s done in his private life: it has nothing to do with the magnificent acting we so admire him for.

Tania Donald, Melbourne

Dear Tina,

With reference to the earlier posts regarding Donald Spoto: I’m afraid Mr Spoto has a reputation for playing fast and loose with the facts. His books are lively but quite salacious, I always suggest they are best treated as historical fiction. Needless to say, over the years Spoto has received numerous criticisms about his over focusing on his subject’s sexuality, and of his excessive reliance on anecdotal evidence. I know that Laurence Olivier’s son made similar complaints to those you have about Peter when Spoto published ‘Laurence Olivier: A Biography’ back in 1991.

It’s strange that very few people gave any credence to the Olivier allegations but when it comes to Peter they feel the whole lot can be repeated as though it were proven fact! I fail to see why some people feel they have a right to know about Peter’s personal relationships. If he were a politician attempting to tell us how to live our own personal lives then it might be in the public interest, but he is not and it is not. To my mind the correct answer to this sort of malicious gossip is “It’s none of your damned business!” If we all feel we have the right to a private life why should this not apply to someone like Peter?

Stewart Cook, Gloucester

Dear Tina,

I was fortunate enough to witness you tackling those morons on www.**********.co.uk yesterday after one of them had referred to Peter as a ‘Pervert’. Oh hell, Tina, there really are some f****ards online. It really makes you feel like going off grid sometimes doesn’t it ? Why the eff would anyone take the time to go on a fansite with the sole intent of disrespecting a person who everyone else is talking about in a decent and orderly way? Answer: because they’re pathetic little nobodies who think that doing so makes them important, when in fact they’re just useless idiots.

I remember us talking about this years ago. At the time you were telling me about your friend who ran Scott Bakula’s fansite, and that she would get pathetic losers doing the same there. Some people are just parasites, Tina; there’s something desperately wrong with them deep inside. They have no empathy, compassion or higher brain functions. They’re just drones who have never done, or will ever do, anything of note in their entire lives. As you well know, they’re also cowards as they know very well that they won’t be held accountable for any of the baseless lies they come up with, however damaging those lies may be.

You’ve always known exactly how to put the dumb f*cks where they belong by standing up to them and proving how stupid they actually are. I’ll bet it was something they didn’t expect when they happened to run into you! I know I’ve said it before, but if it wasn’t for you speaking up and defending Peter, no one else would do it. These parasites would be able to peddle their lies unchallenged if you weren’t around.

I came to the sad realisation only recently that some people are genuinely a waste of space. All they know is how to be negative and vile. That’s not your fault or mine, or the fault of your friend running the Scott Bakula ‘site, it’s just the way they are and they won’t ever change. You’re bound to be brought down by these sort of people from time to time; their stupidity and nastiness never stops, they’re out there in droves! People like us who have a sense of common decency, empathy and morals are in the minority. You’re doing a job for Peter now, and as in most jobs, some days are way shittier than others.

I hope you feel proud of yourself that you put these people in their place. If you’re not, then you should. Like I say, it’s bound to get on top of you from time to time, but you’re the only one defending Peter now, and you can’t let them win and ruin his memory. I know you know all this, but sometimes a reminder helps. I hope so anyway.

Marion Keane

Click HERE to read the story behind this.

Dear Tina,

I was reading an obituary for Peter online from one of the British dailies just now and couldn’t believe the number of errors in it, and not just the kind that only a dyed-in-the-wool Wyngarde aficionado would spot. Does no one do any actual research or fact-checking these days? It would appear not. All everyone seems to do is regurgitate the same disinformation as the last guy. But that goes for most of society, not just the tabloids. People just want to be spoon fed like babies and don’t seem to be able to think critically anymore. They’ll just mindlessly swallow any old crap. It’s little wonder that ‘fake news’ has become such a problem when it’s so easy to pass off unverified guess work, or worse still, malicious lies as fact.

Jackie Ashby

Thoughts On… Internet trolls and how they’re impacting Fandom

Dear Tina,

I’ve been reading the letters on this page about trolls and online bullies, and it’s put me in mind of the lady who runs the American branch of the Marc Bolan Fan Club.

She had been into Marc’s music waaaaaaaay before he had his first hit in the UK and was given permission to form a fan club in the States by Bolan himself. All went swimmingly until around 2011 when she started receiving abuse from a group of people who had congregated online and who are now challenging her right to use the word ‘official’ in the title of the club. She has tried publishing the letters she received from Marc during the 1970s, including those giving her permission to set up the club in the first place, plus those acknowledging her organisation as an official branch of his fan club but then all this gang did, no doubt to justify their campaign of harassment, was to insist she’d forged the letters herself. Whether they actually believe this claptrap themselves or are just attempting to convince other feebleminded idiots to join their hate campaign is unknown. What is certain is that they’re off the scale when it comes to insanity.

What is being created both in this context and on a wider scale, is a wholesale denial of truth. We now have a situation where people with absolutely no authority or personal experience or knowledge of a subject are attempting to beat down those who have. We saw glimpses of this during the Covid pandemic when eminent, world renowned scientists and doctors were attacked online and in person by people who hadn’t the faintest understanding of what they were talking about. Those reading this might think that we can’t compare the secretary/admin of a fan club/website with a scientist or surgeon, but it is the thin end of the wedge, and we should all be deeply concerned.

Best wishes and don’t let the loonies drag you down.

Alex Thorpe

_________________

Dear Alex,

It would appear that all such morons attend the same troll training academy as I’ve experienced similar claims from a small group of lowlifes that have attempted to drag our Society down. I doubt there’s so much as a single brain cell to share between the lot of ’em!

Tina

Hi Tina!

I recently experienced a similar thing to the lady who runs the Marc Bolan fan club. It was on a music forum when some guy began arguing with me over the set list at a Bruce Springsteen concert some years back. I’d been at the gig, this bloke hadn’t and yet he went on and on and on. As someone has already stated on this page, there doesn’t appear to be facts anymore, just opinion. The world has gone stark raving mad.

Ken Simons

Hi Tina,

As long as I live, I’ll never understand the motives of trolls and other troublemakers. I’ve been the admin of a fansite for around 12 years and over those years have had experiences with idiots trying to disrupt, abuse and generally cause disharmony.

As you know, those of us who run websites, forums and social media groups often have a nodding acquaintance with each other and frequently exchange information about people who have caused problems for our respective ‘sites. Not unsurprisingly, the same names keep coming up again and again. I could give you the names of dozens of people off the top of my head who have been banned from this group or that forum because they can’t resist causing bad feeling or generally disrupting things with their vitriolic comments and rabble-rousing. While they must’ve had some kind of interest in film, TV, actors etc. to begin with to have joined certain associations and societies, they’re now becoming increasingly isolated as they’re gradually being ostracised by other fans and barred from one group after another.

I was recently contacted by a chap who’s been a member of my fansite for some time. He reported that someone with the initials P.S. had suddenly and without any kind of provocation, started to abuse him via our forum. I asked four other admins I have regular contact with if they’d heard of this person and wasn’t at all surprised to learn that he’d been removed and blocked from each of their groups.

The exchange of information between admins is vital if we’re to prevent people like P.S. from destroying what the rest of us love and enjoy. I’ve been considering the idea of setting up an association that all website admins can join to exchange information on potential and known troublemakers so that we can protect our respective ‘sites and our members from these simpletons.

Keep up the great work, Tina!

Name withheld to avoid retaliation

_________________

Hi ******,

I think the idea of an association for fansite admins is a great idea. Although we’ve only found it necessary to ban a tiny number of people from our Facebook group, they have been some of the most spiteful, vindictive and fixated individuals I have ever had the misfortune to encounter (you know who I mean as you yourself have had dealings with at least 2 of them).

I also immediately recognised P.S’s. name as he was amongst the number referred to above. He has quite a reputation that is well deserved.

Tina

Dear Tina,

I thought that the advent of the World Wide Web would be the making of Fandom and that it would bring likeminded people from around the world together. Although there have been many new fan sites spring up over the years, many more have withered and died as a result of infighting and incessant trolling.

Look at ‘The Prisoner’ for instance. There are now several distinct factions that are constantly at loggerheads. The frightening thing is that the majority of those involved with such groups and websites, either as admin or members, are of an age where they should be acting with more maturity. As you’ve experienced yourself, once some of these morons get their teeth into you they’re like a dog with a bone, they simply won’t give in. I can only say that I admire your stoicism in facing these horrendous people down. They deserve nothing but utter contempt.

Regards,

Frank Goodier

Dear Tina,

I was so sorry to hear from a mate of mine that you’d been having so much trouble with idiot trolls on the Internet. Haven’t they anything better to do with their time? It’s about time that the law caught up with these loonies. I’d love to see the b*****ds squirming in front of a judge as they try to justify themselves.

You stay strong, and don’t let scum like this grind you down. Everyone is relying on you to protect Peter’s memory.

With best wishes,

Glynn Tannerhill, Oldham.

______________________

Dear Glynn,

Thanks for your support. Sadly, I’m not the only one to be abused online by a moronic minority. Within 24 hours of actor, David Prowse MBE, passing away last month, the first smears had begun to appear on social media.

This was a man who’d spent much of his life raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. It was because of his years of service with the Green Cross Code road safety campaign that he was given an MBE in 2000. So what had he done to deserve such hostility? Apparently he DARED to vote ‘Leave’ in the EU Referendum in June 2016! SHOCK! HORROR! PROBE!

Apparently, fans in America were asking what the problems was: “I thought the vote was supposed to be legitimate and democratic?” inquired one. “The impression you guys are giving is that he’d voted for the Nazi party or something!” quipped another. Well, quite!

In addition to spending 15 years making UNPAID visits to schools and youth clubs as the Green Cross Man, he was also the Patron of Walkoncemore[1] and Vice President of Phab Kids[2]. Furthermore, he worked tirelessly to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation UK[3], Prostate Cancer UK[4] and ActionAid[5]. However, in the warped world-view of these bigots, Prowse life was defined solely on how he chose to use his vote in a single referendum. As those American’s mentioned above might’ve said, go figure!

Tina

[1]: A spinal cord injury charity that raises funds toward a cure for the condition.

[2]: A charity that brings together people with and without disabilities, to learn from each other, and above all to have fun.

[3]: Make-A-Wish Foundation UK is a UK-based charity that grants wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. It is affiliated to Make-A-Wish Foundation International.

[4]: The only UK-wide organisation solely focused on beating prostate cancer. 

[5]: Working with local partners to fight poverty and injustice worldwide, reaching over 13 million of the poorest and most vulnerable people and helping them fight for and gain their rights to food, shelter, work, education, healthcare and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

Dear Tina,

Many thanks for posting my earlier email.

I have to say that this area of the website smells so much sweeter now that the putrid stench of homophobia and racism have been removed, along with it’s purveyor.

I can only conclude from reading the diatribes posted on here last week that our cowardly friend is hiding something from wifey, which might explain all the pent-up anger and frustration he continues to aim at Peter. It would certainly account for the incessant rants about homosexuality. Instead of being a self-hating Jew, it looks for all intents and purposes that he’s the proverbial self-hating homosexual. I know that the Cornish can be a bit slow on the uptake, but maybe someone should tell Kev that being gay really isn’t that big of a deal.

John Manley, Taunton

________________

Hello John,

He wasn’t always so hostile towards Peter, as this post on our Facebook page from 2018 testifies. Several of his former friends have contacted me over the past 4 years (the length of time he has now been harassing me, Thomas Bowington – Peter’s friend and agent, and our website/Facebook group) to offer their support. They tell me that he used to be a decent enough bloke but now even they have washed their hands of him (evidently, ours isn’t the only fan group he’s targeted). Obviously something has happened in his life to have caused such a seismic shift in behaviour. You really have to pity people like this and moreover, the fools that choose to hitch their wagon to them.

Tina

Author John Walsh on the troubled making of a pop-art classic, and why writing his new official book of the film was no easy task either!

On December 11th, 1980, Flash Gordon hit cinema screens in the UK. At the time the country was heading into a deep recession, and the winter was about to bite. That week’s news was dominated by the killing of John Lennon three days earlier. Despite all this, the comic strip adaption of the 1930’s newspaper serial proved a hit with UK audiences and managed to make it to the top three spot for that year’s top box office hits despite being released in the last three weeks of 1980. It fared less well in the USA where plans for a sequel died after a disappointing opening weekend.

Now forty years later the film has a status that many other films from the time have still not and perhaps never will achieve. A cinema re-release this summer of StudioCanal’s 4k restoration of the film showed a brighter, sharper version that has ever been seen before.

My plan to write a book about the making of the film was a long process. After writing Harryhausen: The Lost Movies for Titan Books, in 2019. I planned to follow up with a book on the making of Flash Gordon. Wondering why no one had thought of making this before I was confident my publisher would say yes, and they did. What I didn’t expect was what followed. For years my publisher and many others had tried and failed to secure the rights to get a book about the making of the film published. I was warned by a friend who worked in as an attorney in Hollywood that the rights for the project were a hornet’s nest. For eight months, I worked with the various rights holders and along the way, uncovered another uncomfortable truth. Even if I can secure the rights to pen this making-of book, there are very few images that will help tell the story or convince readers it is worth shelling out £35.00. Why should this be, when it is a modern film with a larger production budget that any other film made that year?

On November 20th, my book will be published. A long and sometimes shocking search for images has come together with rare and missing behind the scenes photos and artwork. Such is the love for this film amongst the fans, from TV repeats and VHS viewings, the quotable lines of dialogue from the film have passed into school playground legend and now into the workplace and beyond. If you were about ten when the film came out, you would certainly remember it. From the glamorous and outrageously sexualised costume design to the camp dialogue and fast-paced action, the film has become a favourite at conventions and within the comic book communities. This year Brian Blessed revealed The Queen herself named it as her favourite film.

I searched the planet to track down the mega fans of Flash Gordon. They held the vital pieces of the film, from movie props to unpublished images and a series of stories which helped me build a picture of the production. I then turned to the surviving cast and crew members. I managed to access them all including those who had never gone on the record before. Each of them had either an exciting take on the production or had further contacts for me to chase. This became more like the making of a true-crime podcast series than a book about the making of a science fiction classic. Memories fade with time, and some of the accounts of the troubled production needed some clarity.

Sam Jones was in his early twenties when he was cast as the leading actor Flash Gordon. His fights with the producer led him to leave the film before filming was complete. Sam’s time on the production has gathered almost mythological status amongst fans. Sam was generous with his time and was eager to set the record straight. For a young man taking a leading role in one of the most expensive films in cinema history and relocating to London, it was quite a culture shock. Sam’s time on the film and his experience being Flash Gordon is a big part of what drew me to this project.

In the early 1980s, there was very little news about the behind the scenes struggles that filmmakers had. Most press at the time concentrated on the plot or the technical aspect of the production. Even these areas were shrouded in secrecy. Filmmakers didn’t want to give up their technical secrets as it might destroy the illusion they had spent millions of pounds creating.

The budget for Flash Gordon was over $27million, three times the costs of the original Star Wars (1977). There was no shortage of talent, too, with the best special effects and creative teams available were gathered from around the globe. They would eventually descend on EMI Shepperton Film Studios taking over all of the major studio’s space. Such was the vast expanse of sets needed to create this unique cinematic version of the comic strip that the production even spilled out into an old aeroplane hangar in Weybridge Surrey. Today’s CGI-infused cinematic offerings from the superhero universes think nothing of flying a man or woman across the screen. For the photochemical technology of the late 1970s this was almost an impossibility to create effectively until Superman The Movie (1978) proved with it’s now iconic tag line. “You’ll believe a man can fly.”

For the man of steel’s first outing, he only had himself to fly around with occasional date nights with Lois Lane in tow. For Flash Gordon director Mike Hodges needed hundreds of Hawkmen taking flight during the film’s cinematic climax. Superman had almost a year of planning and special effects experimentation which lead to a complicated front screen projection system what would tilt and zoom. This process was called Zoptic. Along with some traditional wire work, great editing and lighting, it was possible to wow audiences. Some of the most effectine flying sequences benefited from being covered with the cloak of night. No such luxury of was afforded to the Hawkmen who would have to fly in brightly coloured lit skies. The volume of shots needed and the tight shooting schedule of just seventeen weeks meant using a complicated system such as Zoptic was not an option for Mike Hodges.

The same was true of the spaceship models that were hurtling through the stars. Leading model makers Martin Bower and Bill Pearson gave me exclusive access to their photos from Flash Gordon with many never before published images showing deleted special effects sequences. Both men have credits on some of the biggest science fiction films of all time. Both had just come off Ridley Scott’s Alien (1979) when they took on the enormously complex task of creating the variety of different models in various scales and sizes for Flash Gordon.  Some deleted scenes were shot and cut from the final print. These are in my new book along with new recently discovered photography showing the behind the scenes process.

Much came to light about the film that Flash Gordon could have been. The film’s legendary producer Dino De Laurentiis had prepared another version of Flash Gordon with a different director. Nicolas Roeg was best known for the thriller Don’t Look Now (1973) but it would be his unconventional science fiction film with David Bowie, The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), that would get Dino’s attention. Roeg worked on the first Flash Gordon film for over six months, but ultimately, he parted ways with Dino when both men realised they had very different ideas of how to bring this 1930s comic strip to the cinema screen. What is left behind are beautifully created pieces of production art that are being seen for the very first time in my new book. They reveal a grand vision that could not have been realised by the technology of the last 1970s. In many ways what Roeg had created was unfilmable at the time with any degree of realism that would meet the need for audiences already growing more sophisticated due to science fiction blockbusters Star Wars (1977), Close Encounters (1978) and Star Trek The Motion Picture (1979).

Dino’s plans to film three Flash Gordon films back to back reveals his epic vision as a producer. His 1976 King Kong remake was controversial but was also one of the biggest cinema hits of 1976. Dino was one of the last true Hollywood moguls. A man of singular vision who brought his creative European sensibilities to a world that is often portrayed as commercial and garish. Although he is no longer here to see the legacy of his work with Flash Gordon he does deserve much if not all of the credit for bringing us humour, colour and one of the greatest rock score soundtracks of all time with Queen. The following year he would next go on to make a star of Schwarzenegger with Conan The Barbarian.

Speaking with the cast, crew and director Mike Hodges the true story of how Flash Gordon took forty years to become an overnight success is finally here.  Their memories of the filmmaking process and the amazing fans who kept the flame alive during the wilderness years of the late 1980s and 1990s has shaped the telling if this story. Today many film makers including the UK’s own Edgar Wright hail it as an all-time favourite. Flash Gordon can finally take its rightful place in film history.

Flash Gordon: The Official Story of the Film was published on 20th November, 2020 – you can order it here.

John Walsh @walshbros October 2020

A podcast series accompanies this book here:

Click below for more on Flash Gordon…

By Tom Fordy – 9th October, 2020.

Shortly after the release of The Innocents in 1961, director Jack Clayton was eating in a Soho restaurant. Also there, dining at another table, was legendary French director François Truffaut. As Clayton ate, Truffaut sent over a waiter with a message scribbled on a napkin: “The Innocents is the best English film after Hitchcock goes to America.”

It’s safe to say that Truffaut, the maestro of French New Wave Cinema, knew his stuff. In contrast to the Technicolor blood-splattered Hammer films of the era, or gimmicky haunted house pictures (“Cinematic equivalents of a ride on the ghost train at the funfair,” wrote Innocents expert Sir Christopher Frayling), Jack Clayton’s black-and-white ghost story – based on Henry James’s The Turn of the Screw – is a masterpiece of spiraling, psychological terror.

The Turn of the Screw is about to haunt the screen again. This time in the Netflix series The Haunting of Bly Manor, the second installment of Mike Flanagan’s The Haunting of… anthology series. But The Innocents has left considerable ghostly footsteps in which to follow. It’s not just the finest adaptation of the world’s most famous ghost story, but an evolution of it. By way of the stage play and opera versions – from which Jack Clayton picked up pieces along the way – The Innocents goes deeper into the chills and (alleged) perverse subtext of The Turn of the Screw.

The Innocents stays relatively close to James’s 1898 novella: Miss Giddens (Deborah Kerr) takes a job as the governess at the Bly country estate, where she will care for two young children – a brother and sister named Miles (Martin Stephens) and Flora (Pamela Franklin) – who are all-but abandoned by their bachelor uncle (Michael Redgrave). Unnerved by the children’s sometimes-spooky behaviour and sightings of strange figures (who no else seems to see… or do they?) Miss Giddens believes the ghosts of illicit lovers – who both worked and died on the Bly estate – have returned to possess the children. But are the ghosts real? Or do they exist only in the governess’s mind?

Martin Stephens was just 11 years old when he played Miles. Almost 60 years later, he enjoys the shadow of uncertainty that looms over the film. “I like the fact it’s ambiguous,” he tells me. “That, to me, is what makes it unsettling. It leaves you teetering on this razor blade of indecision. Did she imagine those ghosts? Or were they real?”

As Christopher Frayling recalls in his 2013 book about the film, Jack Clayton first read The Turn of the Screw at the age of 10, and may have seen echoes of his own childhood in the story. He grew up without a father and was largely isolated from other children. After Clayton made his directorial debut in 1959 – the acclaimed, Oscar-winning northern drama Room at the Top – he was concerned with being typecast as a “kitchen sink” filmmaker so look to make something detached from realism.

The Turn of the Screw was first adapted as The Innocents by William Archibald – a stage play set entirely in the drawing room of Bly House. Archibald also wrote the first draft of the screenplay for Clayton. But Clayton was dissatisfied. His vision for the story was as much inspired by Edmund Wilson’s 1934 critical essay on The Turn of the Screw, a Freudian interpretation in which Wilson called the Governess character “a neurotic case of sex repression”; the ghosts are manifestations of her shackled sexual impulses.

Clayton consulted with other writers, including Harold Pinter and Nigel Kneale (Kneale’s later TV adaptation of The Woman in Black seemed to draw from The Innocents). Clayton brought in John Mortimer to rewrite the script, and then Truman Capote, with whom Clayton had worked on the 1953 comedy Beat the Devil. Clayton later said that Capote was responsible for “90 per cent” of The Innocents.

Capote was deep into writing In Cold Blood, his seminal “non-fiction novel” about the two killers, and the family they murdered, in Kansas. Early in the process, Capote had retreated to Switzerland to try and finish his book, and sent pages of script back to Clayton.

While Capote and Clayton’s version expands on the stage play, the influence is still there, with just a handful of cast members. “It’s theatre really, made into film,” says Martin Stephens. “It has an intensity, which doesn’t dissipate into a big cast.”

Playing Miss Giddens, Deborah Kerr was already an Oscar-nominated star, from films such as From Here to Eternity and The King and I. Kerr had worked with Martin Stephens too. She played his mother in 1959’s Count Your Blessings, and they formed a close bond. “I remember when I arrived for the first day of filming on The Innocents, all the dressing rooms were on the first floor,” says Stephens. “I went up the stairs and ran down the corridor, and I jumped into her arms.”

Michael Redgrave would play the children’s uncle. He appears in the first scene but is appropriately absent afterwards. He leaves an impression on Miss Giddens though. It seems his charm and bachelorly ways awaken something in Miss Giddens, and sends her off to Bly House all aflutter.

Rounding off the grown-up cast is Megs Jenkins as homely housekeeper Mrs Grose; and Peter Wyngarde and Clytie Jessop as Peter Quint and Miss Jessel, the estate’s former (as in, deceased) valet and governess. Quint and Miss Jessel, so Miss Giddens learns, were locked in an abusive, sexually depraved relationship (“There’s things I’ve seen, I’m ashamed to say,” Mrs Grose explains. “Rooms used by daylight as though they were dark woods”). Peter Wyngarde – before the moustachioed flamboyance of his playboy sleuth Jason King – is a striking, literally haunting presence: Miss Giddens sees him watching over her from atop the tower; and later gliding out of the darkness to appear as a face at the window (an effect achieved by placing Wyngarde on a trolley and wheeling him into shot).

Though just 11, Martin Stephens was already a veteran of the big screen. He’d made ten films by the time of The Innocents (“I never intended to get in the business myself,” he laughs. “It was entirely the volition of my mum!”). Stephens is almost unearthly as Miles: precocious and gentlemanly, as if old before his time; flirtatious, certainly enough to near-seduce a grown woman; and treading a line between both vulnerable and sinister. In one scene he’s upset because the uncle has abandoned him; soon after, there’s a threat of violence in him as he grips ahold of Miss Giddens in a game of hide and seek. She believes that Quint has an influence on the boy from beyond the grave; I can’t deny, I’m half convinced she’s right.

Even more disturbing is a later scene, in which Miles suddenly kisses Miss Giddens. It’s her reaction that’s most jarring: part taken aback, part aroused as the emotional connection between them turns physical. In 1961, the scene was shocking; in 2020, it’s perhaps the best example of how The Innocents has aged: darker, more complex, more horrifying.

“It’s challenging stuff,” says Martin Stephens. “I remember that kiss was the only scene where Jack didn’t give me a full explanation of what was happening. You can understand why. How are you going to explain to an 11-year-old boy the almost paedophile undertones? Or the governess’s response? She associates the boy with Peter Quint, who is very handsome and sexual. She’s this virgin, slightly frustrated governess. She had probably never been kissed on the mouth before. It was deeply shocking.”

In 1960, the year before The Innocents, Stephens had starred in Village of the Damned. He played David, the platinum-haired head-boy in a gang of murderous, telepathic children. The power of both performances, so Stephens tells me, goes deeper than a knack for playing spooky kids; it was a response to personal tragedy. “My dad died three weeks before I started filming Village of the Damned,” says Stephens. “You can imagine how that had a strong impact. If you look at both of those performances – David and Miles – they’re very self-assured but there’s sadness. You could say there was a different quality to my acting – something deep underlying it.”

The Innocents was shot at Sheffield Park House and Shepperton Studios. Pamela Franklin, who made her film debut as Flora, recalled that Jack Clayton never gave the kids the full script; instead, he only gave them the next day’s scenes. “He just wanted her to be a little girl,” said Franklin about her character. “That was it. No undertones.” Martin Stephens’ mother had seen various stage versions, so clued him in to the whole story.

Clayton, he recalls, was fantastically patient with them as children. It was a contrast to other directors, such as Jean Negulesco on Count Your Blessings, who proved such a taskmaster that it made a nine-year-old Stephens ill during production.

“We didn’t know this as children, but apparently Jack could have a really, really strong temper,” says Stephens. “But he kept it away from us children. He would prepare for a scene for two or three hours, just to talk us through it. We never felt under pressure. I’ve got some beautiful photographs of him directing me. There’s this real intensity about him.”

Just as crucial to The Innocents’ brilliance was cinematographer Freddie Francis, already an Academy Award winner for 1959’s Sons and Lovers. Forced by the studio, Twentieth Century Fox, to use its CinemaScope technology – a letterbox format which tended to flatten the image – Freddie Francis had to experiment. To get the all-important depth of field in Clayton’s shots, Francis beamed an extraordinary amount of light onto the Shepperton set – up to 50 brute lights at once.

As the story goes, Deborah Kerr would arrive wearing sunglasses. Francis also experimented with filters and even painted part of the camera lens to blur the edges of the frame. The effect is dream-like and ethereal – a fogged reality that surrounds Miss Giddens, like there’s always something lurking at the fringes. The Innocents may be black and white, but it’s utterly vivid.

From the opening titles – perfectly black, with Miss Giddens hands raised in prayer – The Innocents is a sensory terror: a haunting of both the mind and soul. Thematically, visually, and orally, not an inch, or shot, or word is wasted. As soon as Miss Giddens arrives at Bly, she’s met by the sound of a voice – an unknown person calling out to Flora. There’s a foreboding moment inside the house: Miss Giddens sees a vase of beautiful white roses, but the petals drop off as soon as she touches them.

“When she comes to Bly, we start in the spring and she’s wearing these beautiful light-coloured dresses,” says Martin Stephens. “As the film progresses through the seasons, the clothes get darker and darker, and the story gets darker and darker.”

It’s a testament to Jack Clayton’s direction that the film’s most frightening moment comes in broad daylight. As Miss Giddens and Flora lounge in the gardens, the ghost of Miss Jessel appears in the distance – standing upon the lake; an ominous figure among the reeds.

There are skin-crawling ideas and imagery – Flora watching a spider eat a butterfly; a beetle creeping its way out of a stone cherub’s mouth – while the tune of O Willow Waly, written especially for the film, goes around and around, like a giddying soundtrack to the haunting.

There are also unanswered mysteries: is there a psychic connection between the children? And does anyone else see the ghosts? Ultimately, its biggest mystery is Miss Gidden’s own unravelling consciousness, as seen in the film’s most iconic sequence: Miss Gidden walking through the darkened corridors and rooms of Bly House, led by flickering candle light. Disturbed by strange sounds and sights, it’s a journey into her own fear.

In the final scenes, the bubbling tension of secrets, terror, and sexuality erupt at once, when Miss Giddens tries to free Miles from the ghostly clutches of Quint. Cornered in the conservatory, Miles unleashes a torrent of abuse – admittedly, tame by today’s standards – at her (“That’s what you are, a damned hussy, a damned dirty-minded hag!”) as Quint’s face appears at the glass behind him. The question is, who is Miles’ true tormentor? The ghost of Quint? Or Miss Giddens herself?

“I found that pretty challenging,” says Martin Stephens. “Deborah Kerr was a good friend. For me to say that stuff to her was quite hard. It’s pretty strong stuff for an 11-year-old child to be shouting at an adult! I remember those scenes very well. We were in this sub-tropical conservatory, sweat was beading down our faces, surrounded by plants. It was very claustrophobic.”

In the climactic moment, the boy dies – the cause of his death as ambiguous as the haunting itself. The film – already buried beneath the layers of an unknowable Freudian nightmare – delivers one final shock: holding the boy’s dead body in her arms, she kisses him on the lips.

According to Christopher Frayling, Twentieth Century Fox executives were nervous about the end of the script from the first draft. One exec called Clayton from Hollywood and begged him to change it. “You can’t finish a film like that!” said the executive. Clayton asked why, to which the exec replied: “Because… because… it’s not done!” It is, particularly for the time, unmercifully dark. And with a budget of £432,000 – around $1 million – The Innocents was a relatively high cost for what was essentially a small, atmospheric theatrical piece. The executives were right to be nervous. The final scene earned The Innocents an X certificate.

Stephens remembers being invited to see a preview screening – but he was too young to attend. “At the last minute I got a phone call from the studio saying, ‘Sorry Martin, you can’t come, it’s an X!’” He didn’t see it until he was 15. Though he was still too young, even then; a tutor had to sneak him in.

The Innocents was entered into the Cannes Film Festival but was a box office disappointment. It wasn’t until later that it gained its reputation. Its influence is still seen years later: most obviously in the Nicole Kidman-starring chiller The Others from 2001 (which even takes its name from a line in The Innocents). It’s a curious case of a film that retrospectively adds even more to the original. Watching The Innocents now – with knowledge of The Others’ final twist (spoiler: they’re already dead) – lines about Bly House being like heaven, and the kids wanting to stay there forever, add more chills. Kate Bush also released a song, The Infant Kiss, inspired by the film.

Stephens quit acting in 1966, but says he’s not haunted by his association with the film all these years later. “It’s held in very high esteem,” he says. “It was hard work but in no way did it haunt me.”

He knows that others have continued to hold it in high regard. Many years later, Stephens attended a master class with Freddie Francis at Pinewood Studios, where Francis screened The Innocents. “He obviously held the film very dear because it was groundbreaking,” says Stephens. He also recalls high praise from the governess herself. “I met Deborah Kerr decades later and had a reunion,” he said. “She told me it was probably the most challenging part she ever played.”

Click below for more on The Innocents…

1950s

“When I’m doing TV drama, I deliberately play down the sex appeal – I suppose you must call it that – unless it’s needed for the plot. I believe that actors should steer away from their natural traits. They’ll still show through in your final performance, but they’ll be much more realistic if you restrain them.” 1956

“After my part as Sidney Carton in ‘A Tale Of Two Cities” on BBC TV, I got 2,500 fan letters, all from the dear gentle sex. One of them said she used to have Van Gogh painting over her fireplace. She’s now replaced it with a picture of me. I’m pleased to think that I’ve replaced Tommy Steele – or Van Gough – in their hearts.“ 1959

1960s

“If a part appeals strongly enough to me, then I play it. I want to play parts that are worthwhile and not just appear in films for the sake of being seen on screen. I want people to remember me.” 1962

“I’m a very restless man and I like whatever I’m doing at the moment. If I’m in a TV play I can hardly wait to get into another play or movie.” 1965

“Like me, Jason King is an impatient man, and that’s why he has a quick brain. Maybe I haven’t got the same quick imagination that makes it easy for me to portray such a man.” 1969

1970s

“The truth is that people only seem interested in my sex life. Women just want to take me to bed. And men just want to know where I get my suits cut!” 1971

“I don’t hold great value for fame really, because I think the public would soon forget about Jason King if he didn’t appear on their TV screens” 1971

“If clothes really matter to you they must be treated with respect. Men who fill their pockets with bric-a-brac amaze me as they ruin the shape of their suits and prove they don’t really care how they look.” 1971

“Me a sex symbol? God help us! Most of us have sex appeal, but probably mine is a little more blatant, more visual. I don’t see myself as anything particular.” 1973

“I’m the sort of actor who become the part he plays. When the part of Jason was written originally, he was quiet, donnish sort of chap. I knew then that if I played him like that that I would come home after playing the part all day, and I’d end up feeling about seventy. So Jason ended up being much more like me.” 1972

“I get some remarkable fan letters. I’ve had requests from girls which read: “When you shave tomorrow, please clip the ends off your moustache and send them to me in the enclosed envelope.” 1972

“I was told yesterday that my window cleaner had started dressing up to look like I do on TV. The girls apparently liked it. He became a bit of a raver… his wife divorced him and blamed me.” 1972

“I used to be very intolerant if things didn’t go may way. I sulked or made an awful lot of noise. Now I am much more inclined to see others points of view. Acting has done that for me. It has helped me to learn more about people and life.” 1973

“I desperately want children of my own, but I can’t bear the thought of getting married again. I know that nowadays a wedding ring has become unfashionable, and although I’ll swing along with the best of the Seventies crowd, when it comes to being a father, I’m positively Victorian.” 1973

“Women cannot bear not to be wanted. You look a girl up and down, appraise her figure, legs – the lot – and then turn back to your drink or whatever you’re doing, and a couple of seconds later, she’s there beside you.” 1973

“A man can love a woman without thinking about her every waking moment. He still has time for the football match, or a game of darts at the pub, or a drink with the boys. And that’s something women just don’t understand.” 1973

“There was one girl in Australia that I met last year who came very close to making me think that waking up next to her every morning for the rest of my life would be the most wonderful thing in the world.” 1973

“I don’t feel as if I belong to any strata of society. I never did. I can be at home with anyone, whether it’s at an ambassadorial dinner party, or with a gang of building labourers. Mind you, people say I try to hard to be one of the boys.” 1973

“I’m a very solitary person. Although I’m not self-sufficient. I like to be on my own. I ruminate a lot. Maybe I’m frightened of getting too close to people. I don’t want to get hurt, and I don’t want to hurt other people.” 1974

“I adore flying. I’m trying to improve my tennis and my passion is sex. I think I’ll change that to sophisticated sex.” 1974

“Clothes are very important to me. I see things mostly in shapes. I draw a shape. I see characters in shapes and before I know it, I’m designing clothes.” 1975

1980s

“I would love to play Drake or Raleigh in a swashbuckling series about the Elizabethan era. It’s the sort of style and glamour that is missing on TV today.” 1980

“I’ve never had any doubt about my sexuality. I’m mad about women.” 1980

1990s

“I decide that Jason King was going to be an extension of me. I was going to have a superimposed personality. I was inclined to be a bit of a dandy.” 1993

“Jason King had champagne and strawberries for breakfast, just as I did myself. I drank myself to a standstill. When I think about it now, I am amazed I’m still here.” 1993

“My problem is that women fall for Jason King and find that I’m really Dracula. There’s a sadistic streak in me but I think women quite like it. You have to be tough with them and they love you for it. Treat them with any amount of charm, that’s how you start – then you throw off the frock coat and put on a bearskin. I love being the caveman.” 1993

“I’ve never worn a medallion outside my shirt, except for one character who goes to a disco. Of course, they accused me of being a “Medallion Man”, which I never was.” 1994

“All the problems of the world are caused because people don’t laugh. I’d love my album to be heard all over the place. It’s totally fun..” 1996

“If you’ve got humour in yourself, you’ve got to bring it out. That was the lovely thing about playing Jason because he was a romantic extension – and I emphasise the word ‘extension – of yourself.” 1996

“I got on marvellously with Joel Fabiani and we became great mates, but I didn’t his it of with ‘Knickers’ [Rosemary Nicolls] as I called her, because she decided that she was going to be this great star and actors don’t like that.” 1996

“The real danger that happens to a lot of actors – and it happened to me towards the end – is that you get so embroiled with the character that you think nobody else can write for him, which is probably 75% true. But then suddenly you find you’re only going in one direction.” 1997

“I was a terrible, outrageous little show-off. A precocious, hideous little child.” 1998

“I never watch myself on TV. In fact it’s only recently that I’ve been watching any of the ‘Jason King’ episodes, because I used to have to watch rushes every day on that show, and that was enough to put me off watching myself for the rest of my life!” 1998

2000’s

“I loved every minute of being in The Avengers. It was obviously very kinky and it was meant to be. Since the Cathy Gale days, there was always this slightly camp and kinky side to the Avengers. Before (‘A Touch Of Brimstone’) I had this reputation of being a bit of a sadist, quite unfounded of course. After that episode I was in great demand. Off screen too!” 2000

“On Department S I wasn’t that close to Rosemary really, but she was alright. I suppose Joel was charming. We really had a good relationship both on screen and off. He was quite a good mate.” 2000

“I loved every minute of being in The Avengers. It was obviously very kinky and it was meant to be. Since the Cathy Gale days, there was always this slightly camp and kinky side to the Avengers. Before (‘A Touch Of Brimstone’) I had this reputation of being a bit of a sadist, quite unfounded of course. After that episode I was in great demand. Off screen too!” 2000

“I’m a jeans and T-shirt man now. On ‘Jason King’ I had to change suits about a dozen times a day so after that I was in no hurry to wear a suit again.” 2003

2010s

“Vivien Leigh, Diana Rigg, Deborah Kerr – they were all brilliant, professional actresses, from whom I learn an awful lot; how to behave as an actor. To respect them and the audience. Vivien always taught me that when you come out onto the stage you must remember that there is an audience out there who have paid to see you. So the first thing you have to do is charm them.” 2017

“The album was meant to be Jason King sending himself up.” 2017

“I think that the popularity of Jason King got way out of proportion. It got to the point where I couldn’t walk through any capital city in Europe without being mobbed. It was like The Beatles. For instance, in Norway or Denmark – I can;’t remember which one, I was give the Royal Suite, which I thought was ridiculous. I mean, why? Just because I’m an actor playing a part should I be given such an honour? I didn’t like it at all. I remember going out onto the balcony and looking down and there was all these people, which is why I’m convinced any actor could become President of his country for the same reason.” 2017

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© Copyright The Hellfire Club: The OFFICIAL PETER WYNGARDE Appreciation Society: https://www.facebook.com/groups/813997125389790/

Q: I was watching the A Choice of Coward version of ‘Present Laughter‘ last night in which Peter Wyngarde plays Garry Essendine. I noticed some framed photographs on the wall of Essendine’s flat, and wondered if they were of Peter and if so, what plays or TV series they are from? Graham Livesy

A: I had to dig the play out to refresh my memory, but I recognised the four images as being (Top) Peter as Dunois in ‘St. Joan‘. The next two – moving clockwise – are of him as Count Marcellus in ‘Duel of Angels‘ (the photo to the right here is one of them), and at the 9 O’Clock position, Peter and Elizabeth Sellars in a promotional shot for the Armchair Theatre installment, ‘The Shining Hour‘; broadcast – 5th January 1958.

Q: I’ve been trying to find out some information about a TV play that Peter was in back in 1957 called ‘Ordeal By Fire’. I’ve been able to get a list of the cast, but all other info, i.e. on The Internet Movie Database and similar appear to be talking about something completely different. Can you help? Ty Hughes

A: The play you refer to was broadcast by the BBC on 31st October, 1957.

I checked on the IMDb, and it appears that whoever posted the information regarding the production and plot have confused it with a documentary with the same title about a wildfire in North America! The ‘Ordeal By Fire’ that Peter appeared in playing a  a young scholar by the name of Jerome Taillard, was based on a drama written in French (‘L’Epreuve du feu’) by Herman Closson and translated into English by E.J. King Bull.

The story is set in 1439 – eight years after Joan of Arc was executed in Rouen – when a mysterious woman turns up at an inn on the road to Paris, and becomes the subject of a plot to present her at the reincarnated Maid of Orléans..In addition to Peter, the cast included Elizabeth Sellars, Ronald Radd, Patrick Troughton and Robert Eddison.

I think this is a case in point when doing research on the internet, as you only need one piece of inaccurate information on a website which will then get copied and reproduced ad infinitum. In addition to the IMDb, this wildfire documentary inaccuracy currently appears on numerous other film/TV ‘sites, including BC Originals, letterboxd.com, Plex, The Movie Database (TMDB), Kinorium, Reelgood… the list goes on.

Q: Hello, Tina. My name is George, and I’m writing to you to say a big thank you for your book on Peter, which I got a copy of last week, and have just begun to read (very slowly, a page at a time, so as to absorb as much of the detail that you’ve put into it as possible). I looked in the back of it, as Biographies on any entertainer, usually cover all the mediums that they’ve worked in. A long and impressive Theatre career… but no film or TV information Was this deliberate or an oversight?

I know that apart from Department S, and Jason King, he appeared in many other series in the 1960s as well as a guest appearance in the Two Ronnie’s. Wonder if you could help me with this please?

Also, Tina, why no photograph of you on the inside or back of your book? Many books feature authors pictures, although there is a marvellous biography of you and your interests.

Are there any individual DVD volumes of The Baron, as I’d like the episode he starred in as the King of a country please? These aren’t criticisms, Tina. Merely observations.

Really looking forward to reading this book…however long it takes me. If anything comes up in the narrative that needs clarification, would I be okay to ask in the future please? I’m also a (recent) member of the Hellfire Club. Do you send out magazines on a membership basis, or are all your posts on FB?. Hope I’ve not given you too many questions all at once. George Haliwell

A: Firstly, thank you for buying the book.

In reply to your questions: The publisher only asked for a list of theatre plays, but you can find information on every single thing Peter has ever been in on this website.

There is a photo of me with Peter in the book itself but, again, the absence of an image on the cover was down to the publisher.

Regarding Rosemary Nichols: I have no idea what she’s up to these days. She left the acting profession soon after Department S finished. I do believe she became an astrologer.

I’ve never seen a single DVD copy of ‘The Baron’ episode – i.e. ‘The Legions of Ammak‘: I don’t think you can buy specific episodes singularly. Maybe you should keep an eye on eBay, as I have seen the odd Avengers or The Saint single episode (from a boxset) turn up from time to time so, who knows, you might get lucky.

No, we no longer do an Appreciation Society magazine (see here for more information). We did in the early days (early Nineties to early 2000’s), but then we just went over to the website – lock, stock and barrel. There’s information on the ‘site about the early incarnations of the Official Peter Wyngarde Fan Club (1952 to 1985), as well as our Appreciation Society (1992 to present day). Anyway, I hope that answers all of your questions.

Q: Regarding the scenes that were cut from the final edit of ‘Flash Gordon’ (see ‘Flash Gordon: Some Of Our Scenes Are Missing!’).Do the cut scenes still exist Tina? Dave.

A: I’ve no idea. I would think that if they did, given the number of times the film has been reissued on VHS, DVD and BluRay over the years, there would’ve been a ‘Director’s Cut’ released by now. It’s sad, as it would be interesting to see the scenes that are detailed in the First and Second drafts of the script. 

Q: Will Peters Album ever be re-issued? Justin Davidson

A: Do you mean in vinyl form or CD? The trouble would be in finding the original contract that was in EMI’s possession. I have Peter’s copy of the contract, which he gave to me (amongst other things) in the mid-90’s, but as far as the EMI part of it goes, I wouldn’t have a clue. I suppose it’s not beyond the realms of possibility giving that vinyl is making a comeback.

Q: I was trying to find the location of the tower block in Department S episode handicap dead it said Fairfax House can’t find it in Wimbledon or Google street view. Brian Mathieson

A: Many of the buildings that featured in series like ‘Department S’ have since been demolished – Fairfax House may well be an example of that process. So sorry that I can’t help you any further.

Q: Someone is selling a gold tooth of Peter’s on eBay. Do you think it’s genuine? Chris Slinn.

A: I saw this listing online. There are two things I have to say about this:

1. Things were taken from Peter’s flat without permission back in 2018. I’m not suggesting that this particular seller is at fault here, as he/she may well have bought these items in good faith.

2. To my knowledge, based on almost 30 years of knowing Peter, he never had a gold tooth! Whether it had once belonged to someone else, or it was added to a lot by an auctioneer etc., I don’t Know but, to my mind, it’s not Peter’s.

PLEASE be very careful when buying things like this online, as there are a lot of unscrupulous people out there. If you’re unsure of something, you can always ask me and I’ll do my best to verify the item or items for you.

To be perfectly honest, I don’t like the thought of people pawing over Peter’s private things. It’s deeply upsetting. I know it goes on, but there’s little I can do about it. I just find the whole thing disrespectful and ghoulish.

Q: I understand that the director Matthew Vaughn had intended to cast Wyngarde in either “Layer Cake” or “X-Men: First Class”, but was misinformed of his death. Is it possible to know what potential roles he was specifically considered in either film? Guy Makey

A: I’ve heard this story before, but it just doesn’t ring true, given that numerous other producers and TV companies were able to find Peter perfectly easily, He had an agent, had an online presence, and was also listed in Spotlight and with Equity.

The purpose of me doing our website was to scotch as many myths as I could about Peter – his, seemingly, just another one of them. I hope my answer helps in some way.

Q: I recently read that Peter Wyngarde would often visit Bradford. As I’m from Bradford, this caught my eye. I thought it quite unusual that he should visit a relatively out of the way city? I also learnt that Rosemary Nicols, his co star in Department S, is from Bradford. A coincidence??? Simon Jordan

A: I’m not sure where this connection to Bradford came from. You’re he second person who’s asked me this recently. Apart from a handful of appearances at the Alhambra Theatre (in ‘Dracula’ and ‘The King and I’), he didn’t spend any time in Bradford.

Given that he and Rosemary Nicols didn’t particularly get on during filming on ‘Department S’ (his nickname for her was “Knickers”), the only oher connection was his work in the 1970’s for a personal appearance agency owned by Carl Gresham, who was based in Bradford.  That said, Peter would go directly to the town or city where he was appearing, and be met there by Gresham. Peter wasn’t required to go to Bradford for any reason.

Via our website and my book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’, I have attempted to scotch many of the ridiculous rumours that have sprung up online about Peter over the years.

I hope this has helped answer your question.

Q: I’ve noticed in a few episodes of ‘Department S’, Jason King is using a walking stick. In one episode it was because of a fall while skiing. Did Peter Wyngarde actually hurt his leg during filming, necessitating the use of the walking sticks, or am I reading too much into it? Kind regards, Gary Smith

A: Peter did as many of his own stunts on TV as he was allowed, and picked up a few injuries as a result. For instance, his knee was pierced with a sabre while working on ‘The Adventures of Ben Gunn‘, and he suffered bruised bones when filming a fight scene in The Champions episode, ‘The Invisible Man‘. He did, however, injure his back in the early 1960’s. It involved a “bird” he’d been seeing when he was working in the US, and a hardtop Ford Thunderbird. That injury which plagued him for the rest of his life. I’ll let him explain:

As a result, he did sometimes use a stick when he has a ‘flare up’, but for the most part he could walk perfectly well unaided. The sticks you’d occasionally see in both ‘Department S’ and ‘Jason King’ were merely character props.

His earliest injury whilst acting was when he was on stage at the Richmond Theatre in 1950 in the play, ‘French Without Tears’. He carried on in his part as the Hon. Alan Howard, then afterwards was taken to hospital where he received two stitches in the wound.

Q: Do you know if Peter ever worked with John Schlesinger? Trevor Carney

A: The only thing they were in together was a BBC production of Shakespeare’s, ‘As You Like It’ – under the ‘Sunday Night Theatre’ banner (Broadcast: March 15th, 1953). Peter played Sylvius, while Schlesinger the minor role of Amiens. They didn’t share any scenes.

Peter didn’t like Schlesinger. He thought he (J.S.) was phoney, and although they had a nodding acquaintance, as many in the acting profession do, he didn’t spend any time with him as such.

Q: I wondered if you might be able to help with a bit of an odd request. My husband is a huge fan of Peter, and has a habit of firing off Jason King oneliners on an almost daily basis. One of his favourite when asked to do something he’d rather not, is to decline on the basis that he has “…discovered a new pâté…’’, a line from the series. I wondered if with your encyclopaedic knowledge you might be able to pinpoint which episode..? It seems more-than likely to have been another of Peter’s marvellous ad libs. Any help you could give me would be tremendously appreciated. With best regards. Katie Milford

A: I understand on good authority that the line was uttered in the Jason King episode, ‘Toki’.

Q: Peter wore a red and blue bar scarf in the Avengers episode, ‘Epic’. Was he a Crystal Palace supporter? Barry Robinson

A: No. Peter supported Chelsea, which is something I never forgave him for!

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Q: Almost every character in ‘Flash Gordon’ had their own personal rocket except for Klytus. Did he have such a craft and I’ve just missed it? Mike Stephenson

A: Yes, Klytus had a rocket. You can see it in flight in one scene, and also the interior when he’s awakened by one of his subordinates en route to Sky City, home of The Hawkmen. You also get a view of the craft when Klytus arrives at Sky City.

Above (left): General Kltus’s ship as seen in the film and, (Right) Martin Bower’s model.

All the rockets seen in the film were designed and built by the Martin Bower, who also designed the vessels for Space: 1999,Alien, Outland and Into Infinity.

Q: Would you know is General Klytus from ‘Flash Gordon’ had a backstory in the ‘F.G.’ comics which told how he came to wear the mask and gave his full name? Barry C.

A: If there has been, I’ve certainly never heard of it. Aparently, the General’s full name is Klytus Ra Djaaran and, according to Arthur Byron Cover’s 1980 novel based around the film, Klytus had been seriously injured while attempting to increase his intelligence using the same mind altering probe used to empty Dr. Zarkov’s mind. His face and right arm had been badly burned, which resulted in him having to wear the mask and metal plating to his arm.

Q: Can you tell me how to watch Department S in date order? Sally Ames

A: In date order, the episodes run as follows: 18 – 20 – 19 – 22 – 23 – 25 – 27 – 4 – 26 – 5 – 28 – 24 – 6 – 8 – 7 – 3 – 2 – 15 – 1 – 10 – 9 – 12 – 11 – 13 – 14 – 21 – 17 – 16.

Q: In the early 70s, me and a girlfriend loaned a flat in Glasgow. [Byres Rd]. She claimed that a mutual friend of hers had given her permission to use it. This person told my girlfriend it was Peter Wyndgarde’s temporary accommodation. Was he actually filming somewhere in Scotland at the time? Rick Ketz

A: It’s highly unlikely that he had a flat – temporary or otherwise – in Glasgow.

During the early 70’s, he was working on Departments S and Jason King, both of which were filmed at Elstree just outside of London, and he was to spend several months in Australia in the play, ‘Butley‘.

The only time he was in Glasgow was in 1973 when he appeared with Hermione Baddeley in ‘Mother Adam‘, but that was part of a British Tour, so he only did a couple of nights there. The same when he was the lead in ‘The King and I‘ and ‘Dracula‘ in 1974 & ’75, respectively.

Q: I read the following on a website called We Are Cult (https://wearecult.rocks/), which was a review of the Network’s ‘Fall In: The Prisoner at 50’ event in September 2017.

‘The audience in Hercules Hall were rather shocked when the next guest appeared. Peter Wyngarde, who been so suave and dangerous as Number 2 in Checkmate, entered the hall in a wheelchair, courtesy of the hospital where he’d been taken when he became severely ill. Not wanting to disappoint people, he had insisted on returning to Portmeirion (via ambulance), the very embodiment of the actors’ motto ‘the show must go on.’ His interview was necessarily short – 5 minutes – but Peter still found time to profess his admiration for McGoohan, who with The Prisoner “gave you the feeling that you were doing something original.”

I was in the audience at Hercules Hall and witnessed someone bring Peter in in a wheelchair, but I didn’t realise he’d been brought from the hospital. Can you clarify? Stephen Bailey

A: It was me who brought Peter into Hercules Hall in a wheelchair. I’d driven him to ‘The Village’, and was with him every moment throughout his stay there, so I can tell you categorically that, although an ambulance was called, and he was seen by paramedics, he was never, EVER admitted to hospital!

I can only surmise that someone saw the ambulance arrive at the Portmeirion Hotel where we were staying; the jungle drums began pounding, and before you know it another inaccurate story is doing the rounds.

Above: Number 2’s lair – the infamous ‘Green Dome’ at Portmeirion

And people wonder why there are so many inaccuracies about Peter online and in the ‘papers!

Q: This may seem like a strange question, but the sort of thing that intrigues a person like me. This is the entrance to Peter’s flat in Earls Terrance of course, and it’s always bothered me. As I understand it No.1 flat is the only one with it’s own entrance, the others are all accessed by the main entrance. Why? ……… and how did they ever get planning permission to put the stairway right on what is obviously the pavement, completely blocking it so that pedestrians have to walk round it from either direction and dangerously walk in the road. It’s so out of place and odd it hurts my eyes! When was this done, why was it done, how did it get done??? I need an explanation Tina. Chris Williams.

A: The steps are original to the Terrace, which is Edwardian. The paving stones are set around it. The street is a one-way system as it’s only wide enough to get one car down. There’s a full pavement on the opposite side of the road. 

Q: I loved that overcoat (see right), did you manage to keep it as a keepsake? Paul Mohamed.

A: Unfortunately, no I never saw this coat ‘in the flesh’. Peter gave away a lot of stuff over the years. It’s probably tucked away in someone’s wardrobe somewhere. It may well turn up at some point.

You can find more information about this coat and many of Peter’s other fantastic clothes by clicking here.

Q: Great episode of Jason King this morning. I noticed that Peter was in great shape in this episode, very trim and fit. Was he a keep fit work out sort of guy? He had a very good physique for a man in his middle forties. Chris Williams

A: Peter always kept himself fit. He jogged every day; went to the gym three days a week, and had weights and a bench press at home. He was also keen on eating healthily. Hope that helps answer your question.

Q: Do you know if there’s a comic adaptation of the 1980 Flash Gordon film? I have a novel by Arthur Byron Cover, but I’ve never seen evidence of a comic based on the film. Barry Stanard

A: Golden Press / Western Publishing  published a 64-page comic adaptation in 1980 (ISBN-10: 0307112942; ISBN-13: 9780307112941).

It was written by Bruce Jones, and illustrated  by Al Williamson and Rick Veitch. It is possible to pick up copies online but they usually sell for top dollar; averaging around £55 to £60. There were four further comics which were as follows:

Flash Gordon (1981) Issue #32.  Whitman / Cover code: 90148-103: Flash Gordon The Movie adaptation, part 1. In this opening act, former Jet’s quarterback Flash Gordon and travel agent Dale Arden are kidnapped by a crazy-eyed Dr. Hans Zarkov. Zarkov is convinced that the recent onslaught of hurricanes, tornados, tidal-waves, earthquakes, and meteor showers are the result of an attack on Earth by an alien race from beyond the stars. So strap yourself in with the cast and let’s rocket into outer space for bit of adventure and the unknown.

Flash Gordon (1981) Issue #32.  Whitman / Cover code: 90148-104: Flash Gordon The Movie adaptation, part 2. In this second act, Flash must survive the trials of the forest planet, Arboria plus face Prince Barin in mortal combat on the Disc of Death in Cloud City, home of the Hawkmen. 

Flash Gordon (1981) Issue #33.  Whitman / Cover code: 90148-105: Flash Gordon The Movie adaptation, part 3. In this final explosive act, Flash must somehow unite the kingdoms of Mongo and race against the clock to prevent Dale Arden’s marriage to Ming the Merciless.

Q: Great website! Does anybody know the make and model typewriter Jason King uses? Thanks, Leo

A: Funnily enough I was thinking about this the other day – at around the 7 min mark of All That Glisters part 2 there’s a good look at what looks like an Olivetti Lettera 32 (not the Deluxe version) – so there were seemingly multiple Olivettis across the series. Might even have been a deal with the manufacturer to supply a few? Although funny then that JK never uses the super-cool Olivetti Valentine. Perhaps that would have been too kitsch, not serious enough for a real writer.

Answer courtesy of Christopher Budd.

Q; What is the “professional” Peter Wyngarde “biography” spoken of by Wikipedia that they say was published in 2012? The Roger Langley biography was published in 2012 and reissued in 2019, but this was produced in house by The Prisoner appreciation society, Six of One, so it’s not what you might describe as being “professional”. Bob Kelsall

A: They do appear to be talking about the Roger Langley book.

I gave up a long time ago trying to work out what motivates the people that covetously guard the Peter Wyngarde ‘biography’ on Wikipedia. They quote liberally from tabloid articles – even those that have caused public outrage and resulted in the journalist responsible being sacked – whilst ignoring or outrightly dismissing others that are verified with original documentary evidence. I suggest you take most of what you read on there with a ton of salt.

Q: Could you tell me if the handprints that Peter made during his visit to Melbourne in 1972 still exist. Gerry McKellen, Melbourne

A: Peter left his handprints in the Walk of Fame at McEwans – latterly CBD Bunnings – hardware emporium on Bourke Street, Melbourne, on the 16th June, 1972. The Walk of Fame featured many international celebrities of the day, including Terry-Thomas and Sid James. A few years ago, all the hand and footprints were moved to an interior wall of the shop as many had eroded due to the years of people constantly walking over in the centre of the city of Melbourne. The prints were located just inside the Bourke Street entrance on the right. Peter’s handprints were in the centre of the bottom row.

Sadly, Bunnings no longer exists, but the handprints do. They have been removed to a council facility storage at City of Melbourne’s archive space.

Below is all the information we have on the artifact, which is directly from The City of Melbourne Art and Heritage Collection.

Q: I can’t find much of Peter’s stuff on BBC iPlayer – not even in the Archive section. Any idea why? Ellie S.

A: Yes, because Peter didn’t do very much work for the BBC. Despite supposedly being Britain’s ‘National Broadcaster’, Aunty Beeb either deleted or recorded over much of the programmes they made in the 1950s and 60s, so the handful of things Peter worked on for the BBC are, sadly, no more.

Q: I recently bought a white label promo copy of Peter’s 1970 LP. There is writing on the outer card and a note written on a Sydney hotel notepaper. Would you be able to give me your opinion on if they were written by Peter. There were so few produced if not Peter’s hand it is probably someone involved in it’s making. Thanks. Steve Cain

A. Thanks for the pics. The only bit of in Peter’s hand is that with the name – ‘Sam Harding’s – and the phone number.

Q: Was Peter involved in a documentary about the Doctor Who episode, ‘Planet of Fire‘ in 2011? Dave Healey

A: ‘The Flames of Sarn’ was a documentary about the making of ‘Planet of Fire’, which was released on DVD by 2|entertain in 2010. Extracts from the Big Finish release The John Nathan-Turner Memoirs are heard throughout the documentary to represent John Nathan-Turner’s memories of the story. The documentary featured interviews with Peter Davidson, Mark Strickson, Nicola Bryant and director, Fiona Cummings, but Peter had no part in it.

Right: Peter as Timanov in ‘Planet of Fire’

Q: Could you possibly settle what I’ll politely refer to as an enthusiastic discussion I had online a few days ago with a foul-mouthed clown who stated that your book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’ only sold a handful of copies. I could swear I remember it being on the Amazon Top 100 Best Sellers List? Andy Gray

A: The book was published on 28th February 2020, and it spent much of March of that year in the Amazon Top 100 – peaking at No.5. According to Amazon, who are the largest book retailer on the planet: “To make our Top 100 best seller list, a book must sell at least 3,500 copies in its first week. However, to make it into the top 5, over 5,000 copies of a title have to be sold per day.”  So as you can see, this “clown” is spouting utter nonsense!

Q: Just a question about Peter. I notice he is always referred to as Peter and not Pete. As a Peter myself, I prefer being called Pete. Did he prefer Peter or would he sometimes be referred to as Pete? Peter Hodges

A: No – never heard anyone call Peter ‘Pete’, and he never used it himself. I often called him either Pierre or Pedro which didn’t bother him. Anyway, thanks for your question.

Q: Hello. Do you know anything about an audio book that Peter narrated of Terry Pratchett’s ‘Discworld’? Simon Metford

A: It wasn’t an audio book, Simon, but a radio play based on Pratchett’s ‘Mort’, which was produced by Dirk Maggs and Neil Rosser. Peter played ‘Death’, with Sir Simon Russell-Beale in the title role and Geoffrey Bayden as his Dad. Dirk Maggs latterly said of Peter, “It was a pleasure and privilege to work with Peter. He was wise and kind and had some wonderful stories to tell.”

It was broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on 28th August, 1991.

Q: I’m looking to purchase the reproduction General Klytus mask. Would anyone know where I can pick one up if anyone has one for sale in private collection. Thanks. John Shivers

A: The reproduction Klytus Mask to which you refer was a prototype. Chronicle’s plan was make a limited number for sale to the public, but they must’ve had a change of heart as they didn’t go ahead in the end, which is a great shame as it looked fantastic. Sorry to bring you disappointing news.

Q: I was talking to my mum recently about Peter Wyngarde and she was like “I knew him, he was really good friends with your grandma” then she told me lots of stories about his antics in our local pub “The Ancient Foresters” but what she doesn’t know was why Peter came to Bradford regularly, did he work here? (We are a big city for film and tv), or maybe he had family here? Can anyone shed any light on this? Joe Hill

A: Peter would often travel to Bradford when he was working with Greshamstyle – a personal appearance agency that was based in the city and run by the late Carl Gresham. He also made many appearances at the Alhambra there.

A: The first book – ‘Jason King’ – went on sale in March 1972, and were publicised via most of the popular magazines of the time, i.e. Woman, Woman’s Own and the TV Times et al.

The following passage is taken from the March 18th issue of FAB 208: ‘If you are one of the avid Peter Wyngarde fans who glue themselves to the front of the television every time he appears as the outrageous, devastatingly handsome Jason King, you must be very sad when the series is off the air.

As some sort of consolation, Pan Books have brought out two Jason King paperbacks (25p), so now you can curl up in front of the fire in the company of Jason and his daring antics. Or you can choose it as your book at bedtime and go to sleep dreaming of him.

There are plenty of action-packed adventures as Jason races around the world righting wrongs, wooing beautiful women, getting himself into terrible scrapes only to escape just in the nick of time. And as always, he remains his usual suave, elegant, witty self. If you like Jason, you’ll love reading these books.’ 

With regard to sales, Pan Books say they have no actual units sold, although it was suggested by certain newspapers and magazines of the time that they outsold The Persuaders novel, which was published the same week, 10 to 1!

You can find more about Peter’s film and TV tie-ins here

Q: Was there a moment when Peter felt he had become a star? Who did he consider to be the best actor/actress he ever worked with? Did he ever feel intimidated at the prospect of working with some of the legends (or even non-legends) he got to work with?? Did he have any regrets?? Many thanks. Patrick Nash.

A: Peter would always say that he never really felt like a “star”. He considered actors like Laurence Olivier and Sir Ralph Richardson to be the real stars. He did get the feeling that he’d finally made it when he got the part of Count Marcellus in ‘Duel of Angels‘, opposite Vivien Leigh.

He enjoyed working with many people – probably too many to mention. Vivien Leigh, certainly, and the cast of ‘Flash Gordon‘. He got on really well with Joel Fabiani while working on Departments S, and loved filming ‘The Light Is Dark Enough‘ with Dame Edith Evans who was his neighbour in Kent.

No, he’s never been intimidated by anyone. After spending his childhood in a Japanese Prisoner of War camp, nothing seemed to faze him!

No real regrets – only not doing more work in America. He would often say that he learned as much from the bad productions had he’d done from the good ones. He’d have liked to have played Iago in ‘Othello’ but, alas, that was a part that always alluded him.

Q: Could you tell me if this is Peter Wyngarde’s signature or not? It’s on a copy of his LP that I was considering buying. Paul Stout

A: Although Peter’s handwriting changed markedly over the years (if you scroll further down this page, you’ll see that I’ve posted many examples of his signature over the decades), I can categorically say that this is NOT his signature!

Q: I was looking at a list of Peter’s early TV work and I noticed he appeared in a serial called Epilogue To Capricorn in 1959. My earliest memory of Peter was a serial with the word ‘Capricorn’ in the title but I’ve always remembered it as ‘Operation Capricorn’. I also strongly remember the actress Maxine Audley starring alongside Peter in the series.

I seem recall it was perhaps set in the Caribbean or the tropics. Maybe I am wrong about the title, but I’m sure Maxine Audley was in it. I was only eleven years old at the time, and it’s a long time ago but can anyone help? Dennis Leary

A: ‘Epilogue to Capricorn’ was a six-part mini-series broadcast under the banner ‘Saturday Special’. Peter’s character was called Paul Vauxhall, and the 30-minute episodes were as follows:

• All On Tape. Broadcast: October 31st, 1959
• Manhunt. Broadcast: November 7th, 1959
• Point Of No Return: November 14th, 1959
• Child’s Play: November 21st, 1959
• Time Factor: November 28th, 1959
• Traitor’s Gate. Broadcast: December 6th, 1959

Unlike most British television programmes of the 1950s, this series survives intact. Peter’s character was killed off in the fourth episode, but there was so many complaints by angry viewers at his demise, that he was brought back the following week (the serial was broadcast live), so Peter did it years before Patrick Duffy in ‘Dallas’!

The main female characters in the series were: Lady Kerwin played by Jean Kent; Jill Howard – Adrienne Corri, and Pamela Warren – Pauline Yates.

Hope that’s of some help(?).

Q: I don’t know if you’ll be able to answer this as this isn’t a website devoted entirely to The Prisoner (I’ve written to the biggest Prisoner fan club, Six of One, about this but never received a reply). Do you know if the scarf that Peter and the other actors who played Number 2 in this series is the same as those worn by students at Oxford University? Brian Ainsworth

A: Although they are very similar, the scarf seen in The Prisoner has several differences to the one worn by Oxford Uni students.

There appears to be just 2 stripes on the one worn in The Prisoner, while there are 4 on the Oxford one, and there is a gap between the yellow and white stripes on the Prisoner scarf which is not present on the Oxford so my answer to your question is no.

Q: I’ve been thinking about the film ‘The Siege of Sidney Street‘ and wondered – are decent prints of this hard to come by hence the lack of an official DVD/Bluray in the UK? I first saw it in around 1990 on BBC1 and that had, like the DVD I’ve got of it, a cropped picture. Plus the DVD is (very) unremastered. Either way has it fallen into copyright limbo? According to the BBFC website, the only time the film has been granted a certificate in this country was on its cinema release, I guess that means it’s never even been submitted for a certificate for DVD in this country let alone ever put out on video (except perhaps for a pre-cert, pre-1984 video?). Simon Morris

Q: I’ve been thinking about the film ‘The Siege of Sidney Street‘ and wondered – are decent prints of this hard to come by hence the lack of an official DVD/Bluray in the UK? I first saw it in around 1990 on BBC1 and that had, like the DVD I’ve got of it, a cropped picture. Plus the DVD is (very) unremastered. Either way has it fallen into copyright limbo? According to the BBFC website, the only time the film has been granted a certificate in this country was on itsQ: I’ve been thinking about the film ‘The Siege of Sidney Street‘ and wondered – are decent prints of this hard to come by hence the lack of an official DVD/Bluray in the UK? I first saw it in around 1990 on BBC1 and that had, like the DVD I’ve got of it, a cropped picture. Plus the DVD is (very) unremastered. Either way has it fallen into copyright limbo? According to the BBFC website, the only time the film has been granted a certificate in this country was on its cinema release, I guess that means it’s never even been submitted for a certificate for DVD in this country let alone ever put out on video (except perhaps for a pre-cert, pre-1984 video?). Simon Morris 

A: The film is available on DVD, but only in the USA as part of a compilation entitled, ‘British Cinema Classic B Film Collection: Volume 1’ (VCIV8538DVD). The other titles included in the set are: Softly Stranger, The Frightened Man, Crimes at the Dark House and The Hooded Terror. While the licence for the film is held by this American company, it’s unlikely that it will be issued in the UK. Hope that helps.

Q: Do you know if Peter had any memories of filming the bus chase and car crash sequence in ‘Night of the Eagle‘ ? It’s a fantastically effective sequence and Peter appears to have done much of the stunt driving himself. I’d love to know where exactly it was filmed and any other anecdotes he might remember. Hope you don’t mind me asking. Clive Dawson

A: Yes, Peter remembered doing the bus chase scene very clearly. Those shots were filmed around Buckinghamshire. He always insisted on doing as much of his own stunt work as possible and was a very accomplished driver, having passed his Advanced Driving Test. I hope that helps to answer your question.

Q: In your book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers‘, you quote from letters that Peter had written, often years ago, to friends and colleagues. How were you able to do that when the letter would be in the hands of the intended recipient? David Tyrell

A: Peter was a remarkable record-keeper who made copies of ALL the letters he sent to his Mother, friends, colleagues and other associates from the early 1950s until his death in 2018. He started by making a handwritten copy of each, then progressed to Xeroxing them and, latterly, printing out a copy from his computer. He gave all of these letters to me when he was preparing to write his autobiography in 2015/16.

He also kept all his address books and diaries from that same period, which made mention of everyone he’d ever known – from members of the British establishment, acting colleagues, directors, producers, writers, his mother, family and acquaintances. Over an eight month period, I went through these books with a fine tooth comb, listing EVERYONE he had ever known as an Aide-Mémoire to the writing process. Latterly, Peter went through the list marking out those he intended to make mention of in the book and those he had no interest in.

As it turned out, this list proved to be invaluable to me when, after Peter passed away, I’d receive an email or any other type of message from someone purporting to be a “good friend” of his – especially if this supposed ‘friendship’ pre-dated the time when I first met Peter. All I had to do was check the list(s) which had been put into both alphabetic and date order (the latter detailed which period of time in any given decade that an individual had been ‘prevalent’) to see whether he or she existed or not. Needless to say, there were two or three that tried it on but were quickly given short shrift.

Above: Just a small selection of the thousands of letters Peter wrote between 1950 and 2018.

Q: I’ve just seen your article about the Inaugural John Steed Ball and wondered if Peter knew Fenella Fielding personally? Tess Holding

A: Yes. Peter had known Fenella for quite a while as she was once a neighbour of his at Earls Terrace, Kensington. She acted with him in ‘The Country Wife‘ in 1990, and worked with him on ‘Night Dragon‘ – a track on Graham Roos album, ‘Quest’ in 2010. They were planning to bring George Bernard Shaw’s ‘Dear Liar‘ back to the London stage in 2016 but, alas, it never came about.

When Peter passed away in January 2018, the Fenella Fielding Foundation posted the following on their Facebook page:

Q: Are there any difference between the German issue of Peter Wyngarde’s album and the UK release? David Thomas

A: The only differences are that the track ‘Neville Thumbcatch’ is not on the German LP. The British edition came in a gatefold sleeve – the German one didn’t. The latter also has the words ‘Jason King of Department S’ on the cover (see below).

UK release

German release

Q: I recently read an interview that journalist Andrew Billen did with author, J.G. Ballard, in which he recalls Peter Wyngarde saying that he enjoyed “sadistic sex”. Whatever did he mean by this? Malcolm Selby

A: For many years, author and satirist, J.G. Ballard, had claimed to have known Peter while the two of them were internees at Lunghua Civil Assembly Centre near Shanghai during World War II. Peter had always denied this – saying that he had no memory of Ballard at all.

On 7th August 1997, The Guardian newspaper published an interview with the writer, which was conducted by journalist, Andrew Billen. The following extract is from that article:

“Ballard is not being pious and he is, anyway, in little danger of being damned as politically correct. In 1973, when he was still thought of as a science fiction writer, he published Crash, a novel celebrating the eroticism of car smashes. The kinkiness of Crash, and of some of his other works (one, featuring the Kennedy assassinations, is called The Atrocity Exhibition), reminds me of a fairly weird interview I once conducted with the actor Peter Wyngarde. The one-time Jason King had talked about his preference for sadistic sex. I am reminded because Wyngarde and Ballard were in the same internment camp. ‘Oh,’ Ballard says when I mention it, ‘I don’t think that sort of thing affects your sex life. I’d have thought it needed to be much more personal than that, but then I don’t have any strain of S&M in me, so I wouldn’t know.’” (Read full interview here).

In actual fact, Peter’s exact words were as follows: “I adore flying. I’m trying to improve my tennis and my passion is sex. I think I’ll change that. My passion is sophisticated sex.”

Here, in Peter’s own hand, is his thoughts on the matter – it reads as follows: “Again, I was misquoted. I said yes, my relationships with women veered towards the sadistic – probably because someone said I had that kind of face – if the face fits no acting required! But his [Ballard’s] quote is far more revealing.”

You should NEVER believe everything you read in the press!

Q: Do you know if cameo of Peter Quint seen in ‘The Innocents’ was it a true representation of Peter or just a picture that looked a bit like him? Sharon Dennison

A: It was in fact painted from a photo of Peter by artist, Stella MacMahon in her studio in High Street, Kensington (London). Here is the original photo and cameo, plus a screengrab from the film.

 

Q: Is it true that Peter got comedian Rufus Hound sacked from his job on BBC radio? Jeanette Hayes

A: Not directly, as the incident you refer to happened in 2021 – 3 years after Peter passed away. The following is an article that appeared on The Guardian website at the time:

‘Dancing on Ice star Rufus Hound urged fans to buy a record glorifying rape and joked about the killing of Jews, it emerged last night. The comments increased pressure on show bosses to axe him following anger at previous tweets — including one claim about the Manchester Arena bombing which triggered a falling out with pro-partner Robin Johnstone. Fed-up producers are even preparing TV and radio presenter Matt Richardson, 29, as his replacement.

Last night Hound, who missed last weekend’s show and will be absent tonight, tweeted: “I’ve had Covid. Isolated when I knew I’d come into contact with it, tested five days later, am coming to the end of having had it, luckily v mild case.” His rape blunder came in a podcast in which he talked about TV actor Peter Wyngarde’s banned[1] 1970 record, titled When Sex Leers Its Inquisitive Head[2].

Q: I recently bought a copy of ‘Flash Gordon’ on DVD but was surprised and disappointed to find that the scene where Klytus is awoken by one of his subordinates on his ship had been cut. Do you know if there is a version of the film out there which includes that scene? Mal Grayson

A: You don’t say which DVD release you have as there have been many over the years, most of which have had particular scene added or removed.

Left: Momentum widescreen video and, Right: 4 Front Video

The trend for cutting the film in places began with the Discovision (USA) laserdisc pressing in 1981 which removed the following scenes – not because they were considered nonessential to the plot, but because of the limitations of the format itself (laser discs at that time could not hold as much information as those in later years):

• Emperor Ming’s face during the ‘Hot Hail’ attack at the beginning of the film.
• The scene at Sky City after he has killed Klytus, Flash recommends that he and Dale use curtains as parachutes and Zarkov signals Ming’s shuttle.
• The sequence where the young Arborian takes the Wood Beast trial.
• Dale’s fight with the Ming’s guards in the corridor at the palace were all invariably cut.

Q: I recently bought a 7″ Japanese pressing of the Department S theme on vinyl. I thought it came in a picture sleeve, but this one is in just a Pye paper sleeve. Were there two different issues? Brian Carney

A: The single was released in the paper sleeve with a glossy insert, which was usually how vinyl records were released in Japan back in the 1970s and 80s – the reason being that the vinyl was mainly pressed overseas.

This is the record to the right, with both sides of the insert below.

Q: I once saw a DVD that featured a famous image of Peter and Patrick McGoohan on the disc itself which, obviously, contained an episode of The Prisoner (most probably ‘Checkmate’), but I’ve never seen it since. Have you any idea where this might be from? Stan Peers

A: In 2005, the publisher DeAgostini launched The Prisoner The Official Fact Files, a 17-part DVD and magazine part-work, which was published twice each month to subscribers would receive a magazine and a DVD of one episode. After 6 issues, Carlton were bought out by Granada Ventures and the collection was started again for new subscribers (existing subscribers could continue from issue 7). After 17 issues, the magazine became The Danger Man Collection and episodes of that particular McGoohan series accompanied the magazine on DVD. I would suspect that the disc you saw was from this collection.

Q: What happened to your sister Facebook group, ‘Department Wyngarde’ as it just seemed to disappear from FB without explanation? Matt Cousins

A: ‘Department Wyngarde’ opened around 2008 and was run by Liverpudlian, Dan Box. It was a totally independent group that had nothing to do with The Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society.

Over the years, individuals that had been removed from our group for being abusive or otherwise behaving in an inappropriate manner, often ended up gravitating towards ‘Department Wyngarde’, so it had started to get a rather unsavory reputation. In the end, Facebook was to receive so many complaints about the abuse, foul language, personal attacks and numerous other misuses of the platform that they decided to close it down.

Its admin, who had oft been witnessed preaching online about race and Racism, would end up as part of a notorious, rabidly misogynistic, homophobic and anti-Semitic gang that toured the internet posting libels about myself and abusing Peter – a man who could no longer defend himself. As a result, they were systematically banned from dozens of websites and forums, and from entering any and all Cult TV and/or film related events in the UK. Latterly, Mr Box would also be collared selling unlicensed Peter Wyngarde products on eBay. I recently heard that he was attempting to “distance” himself from the aforementioned mob, but the damage to his reputation had already been done.

Special Comment:

Dear Tina,

I was one of those that complained about the bullying and abuse which was instigated by Dan Box and his mates on this particular Facebook group in October 2019. I received the following from FB in reply:

Generally speaking, Facebook will only remove a group if a large enough number of people have complained about it. One or two objections will ultimately fail to grab their attention, so there must’ve been a lot of grievances about the stuff being posted by Box and his mates. I personally found what was being said on there to be abhorrently sexist, intentionally cruel, utterly groundless and wholly indefensible. Dan Box and those that encouraged and participated in that appalling witch hunt are beyond contempt! Colin Hanson

Q: Could you tell me how tall Peter Wyngarde was? The reason I ask is because I’m currently working on a life size painting of some of the icons of the ITC stable, including Patrick McGoohan, Roger Moore, Patrick Macnee etc. Many thanks. Mike Lyon.

A: Peter was 5 feet 11 inches (1.55m) tall. And since I’m expected to open a vein in order to prove everything I say and do these days, here is his height in black and white in the Spotlight actors directory from 1958 (below) and 1960.

Q: Is it true that Peter contributed to The Orb’s 2006 album, ‘Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld’? Geoff Fletcher

A: The band sampled a piece of audio taken from ‘Flash Gordon‘ that featured Peter as General Klytus and Max Von Sydow as Emperor Ming, so it wasn’t a contribution as such.

Q: Whenever a photograph of Peter Wyngarde appeared in a magazine or on the internet, he was always wearing a gold ring on the little finer of both hands. Can you tell me what, if anything, was on them? D. Mervin

A: Here is a photograph of both rings. The one on the right is a seal, which has an inverted chevron and three stars.

Note to Goldbert Family: This photograph does not imply possession of these rings by Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins. It was taken in 2015 for insurance purposes only.

Q: Why is Peter’s moustache described as Zapata? Sandra Benson

A: That was just a description given to it by the press back in the 1970s as it supposedly resembled the one worn by Mexican revolutionary, Emiliano Zapata.

In fact, Peter’s moustache is of 19th Century Russian fashion, as he’d grown it to take a character called Nicolay Von Koren in a play called ‘The Duel‘ at the Duke of York’s Theatre, London, in 1968.

He kept the moustache when he was cast as Jason King in ‘Department S’.

Right: Peter as Von Koren.

Q: It states the following on Wikipedia about Peter Wyngarde’s relationship with his brother and sister: “…he chose to have very little further contact with them or their families, including Henry Jr’s two sons who were named executors of Wyngarde’s estate.” I read somewhere else that Peter omitted his family from his Will, so why would he name his two nephews executors? Matt Cantrell

A: I’ve had numerous emails and letters about this matter, but this is the absolute final time that I’m prepared to speak about it.

To begin with, Peter’s estranged family were not mentioned AT ALL in his Will, and the two nephew’s were NOT named by Peter as his Executors. In fact, he had nominated Thomas Bowington – his friend and agent – as his Trustee. The only person ‘named’ in the Will was me – his sole beneficiary. However, the family decided to disregard Peter’s wishes by applying for probate themselves. It was then and only then that ONE of the two nephews appointed himself Executor.

You really shouldn’t believe everything you read on the Internet – especially on Wikipedia!

Q: I know Peter designed his own wardrobe and suits. Do you know who his actual tailor was during his Dept S and Jason King period Tony Curtis suits during the early Persuaders were cut very much as Peter’s. Thank you. Richard Derchin

A: Peter would have his suits made by a bespoke tailor on Savile Row in London, called Mr Fish. He kind of drops a hint in one of the Jason King episodes by referring to him as “Mr Cod”.

There were several other tailors that copied the designs, but the ones Peter wore both on and off screen were made by the above.

Q: You mention in your book, ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers‘, that Peter had an affair with actress, Vivien Leigh in the early 1960s. I’ve never seen this mentioned anywhere else. I thought he was supposed to have been with Alan Bates then? Daniel Cox

A: I’m afraid you’ve been misinformed about Alan Bates. The affair that Peter had with Vivien Leigh is referred to in numerous biographies of the actress and her husband, Laurence Olivier, including those by Alexander Walker, Hugo Vickers, Terry Coleman, Gwen Robyns and Roy Moseley & Darwin Porter, to name but a few. Even Olivier himself refers to it in his autobiography, ‘Confessions of an Actor’. Here with some examples:

Above: From Laurence Olivier’s autobiography, ‘Confessions Of An Actor’ (1994)

Above: A cutting from the 24th November, 1960 edition of the Detroit Free Press.

Q: Is it true that Peter Wyngarde was a Derby County football fan? D. Winston, Derby

A: I’m afraid not – Peter was a lifelong Chelsea Fan. The reason for the confusion is that, back in the 1970s, a national British newspaper were having a bit of fun by asking which football club had the best looking fans. The chairman of Derby County had the idea of asking Peter, Roger Moore and popstar, David Essex (a Fulham fan, apparently) to a game. The 3 of them sat in the stand where they were photographed by the press. This is probably how that particular rumour began.

Q: Tina, I recently bought some Tabac inspired by Peter’s advert. It’s ok, but I was wondering what scent Peter wore around the Department S/Jason King era? Ian Davis

A: Peter generally used Brute during the 70s but, latterly, wore Calvin Klein’s Eternity. Enjoy your Tabac.

Q: In the film, Flash Gordon, is General Klytus supposed to be human or cyborg?

During close-ups, his Secret Police don’t appear not to not have lower jaws – only the upper portion of a golden skull seems to be intact. They don’t appear to be human, and at one point we see an agent with wires behind his goggles (although that may have been a different case). Trevor – Hunslet.

A: The Klytus character was created for the film. All the others that appear in the film were taken from the original Alex Raymond comic books.

Given the time that the film was made, it’s likely that General Klytus was intended to be a nod to the Darth Vader character in the Star Wars film. Both were hidden by a mask Klytus had an immobile arm encased in gold armour. According to the the original script, Klytus had supposedly suffered burns to his his body, presumably while carrying out his duties.

It’s evident from his display of emotions; lust (for Princess Aura), anger, love (for Kala?) and jealousy, that he was human – or at least Mongonian.

Q: You have often said that you have never made money from Peter Wyngarde’s name and never would, so what happens to the money made from the T-shirts advertised on this website? Phil Audley

A: There was an exceptionally arrogant and misinformed group of people who had insisted that I waspersonally making money from the sale of PW T-shirts. In fact, one of these pathetic individuals – a woman from Oxford in late middle-age – set up an account on Twitter for the sole purpose of sending a single message accusing me of such, then immediately closed the account (yes – some people really are THAT ludicrous!). Clearly she realised that her ill-informed arraignment couldn’t stand up to neither challenge nor scrutiny, which is why she so hastily removed any means of recourse.

The best person to explain the arrangement is Adam Svensen, the gentleman who designs the shirts:

Visit the Peter Wyngarde shop

Q: Hello, Is it true that the maroon Bentley used in Department S was Peter’s own car? I heard somewhere it was, it was also used in an episode of Randell & Hopkirk. Thank You. Graeme Kornicki

A: The story about Peter owning the maroon Bentley that appeared in Department S is just another one of those urban myths. He did own a Bentley – you can see it by clicking here.

Q: What colour were Peter’s eyes? Sometimes they look blue, but at other times they look green. Thanks. Chris Shaw

 

A: Peter had blue eyes. Colours were often distorted by the type and quality of film used back in the 60s and 70s. For instance, if you were to watch a video from the 90s of him in The Prisoner, his eyes look almost black! Since the advent of HD and digitalisation, you can more clearly see his eye colour.

Q: Could you tell me what it says on the plaque on the Best Dressed Man trophy that Peter Wyngarde was awarded in 1970 & ’71? Paul Barnes

 

A: Here with a close-up of the 1970 award base, which reads: ‘John Stephen Fashion Award – Peter Wyngarde – Best Dressed Personality 1970’.

Q: Could you give me any information about the Peter Wyngarde tribute disc by a group called Paisley Wheelchair Experience? Denny Dickenson

The CD was released in the mid-1990’s and sold as a limited edition via the Hellfire Club – The Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society. Since it was authorised by Peter himself, he was given issue No.1 and I was given No.2. All of the discs sold out almost immediately and are no longer available to buy. You can find more information on this release and all other Wyngarde tribute songs by clicking here.

Q: Could you tell me what type of music Peter listened to? Frank Bainbridge

A: Peter’s musical taste was quite eclectic. At home, the radio was always tuned to (BBC) Classic FM, and that would be playing away for most of the day.

That said, he also liked pop music, The Beatles, Jazz – especially Ella Fitzgerald – and I also managed to turn him into something of a Queen fan, but he did draw a line with The Darkness!

Q: Could you tell me where Peter’s home was in Gloucestershire? Harry Wilson – Tewkesbury

A: The house was called Withy Bed Farm off Calf Way Nr. Stroud. It was a 42-acre small holding. Here is a photograph of the house itself.

Q: Do you have any photographs of Peter when he was a young child? Mark Graham

Above: Peter is the boy, third in from the left – front row, with the dog.

A: The only picture I have of him is with fellow members of his Cub Scout pack – the Shanghai (Telephone Company) Pack. He was about 8-years-old at the time the photo was taken.

Q: Did Peter ever record any audio books please? Steven Lines

A: Sadly, Peter didn’t record any audio books, although he was involved with several audio plays, including the following:

‘Cyrano De Beregeac’ (LP Record) – Caedmon, 1964. Peter played the part of the Comte De Guiche, and The ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’ (Audio Cassette) – HarperCollins Publishers Limited. Peter played Valentine.

Please click here for a full list of all Peter’s recordings.

Q: Is it true that director, Sidney Hayers, would only film Peter from the waist up because it was feared the film wouldn’t get through the censors because of the bulge in the actor’s trousers? Pat O’Sullivan

A: No, it’s not true, as can be seen from this image (left). It’s just another myth that about Peter that did the rounds a few years ago. When asked in an interview in the 1990’s director, Sidney Hayers, said that he had no idea where the story had come from. It was probably just another bit of tabloid tittle-tattle, or was fabricated by on the Internet which is where most of this kind of nonsense comes from.

Q: Could you possibly tell me what the play, ‘Water, Water Everywhere’, was about? Ryan Jackson, Brighton.

A: Yes, of course. ‘Water, Water Everywhere’ wasn’t a play as such, it was a segment that was part of the 1974 Brighton Festival – the theme being the sea. Peter was to perform Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s, ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ in the Music Room of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton.

Q: As well as The Avengers episode, ‘Epic’, did Peter play more than two characters in any other film, TV episode or theatre play. Thanks. Reece Jacobs, Loughborough

A: Yes, he played both The Door Attendant and Policeman Owens in ‘The Pick-Up Girl‘; a Messenger and a Murderer in ‘Macbeth’; Inspector Japp and Sir Claude Amory in ‘Black Coffee;, Voltimand and the “Third Player” in ‘Hamlet’, William Maitland and William Cecil – 1st Earl of Burleigh in ‘Queen of Scots‘, and King Ibrahim and Ronald Noyes is The Baron episode, ‘The Legions of Ammak‘.

Q: Wikipedia have always disputed that Peter Wyngarde was the nephew of French actor, Louis Jouvet. Who is right? Gerry McLoughlin

A: Peter was adamant that Jouvet was his uncle, and this biography about L.J., which was published in 2014, bears that out.

The text states the following – Original Portugese/Brazilian: O renomado ator e diretor de teatro foi responsável pela montagem de peças de Jean-Paul Sartre, Jean Giraudoux. Dirigiu La Comédie des Champs-Elysées, encenou em L’Athénée – tornando a casa conhecida, nesse período, como Théatrê de l’Athénée Louis-Jouvet – e foi professor no conceituado CNSAD (Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique). Também escreveu ensaios e atuou no cinema, com destaque para o filme Copie Conforme (1947). Jouvet inspirou o personagem Anton Ego, do filme Ratatouille (Pixar, 2007). O ator naturalizado inglês Peter Wyngarde é seu sobrinho.

English translation: The renowned actor and theater director was responsible for assembling plays by Jean-Paul Sartre, Jean Genet and Jean Giraudoux. He directed La Comédie des Champs-Elysées, staged in L’Athénée – making the house known, at that time, as Théatrê de l’Athénée Louis-Jouvet – and was a professor at the renowned CNSAD (Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique). He also wrote essays and acted in the cinema, with emphasis on the film Copie conform (1947). Jouvet inspired the character Anton Ego, from the movie Ratatouille (Pixar, 2007). English naturalised actor Peter Wyngarde is his nephew.

It’s interesting that while Wikipedia profess to rely entirely on “reliable printed sources”, and continue to quote from debunked tabloid newspaper articles and discredited journalists and authors, they choose to ignore this. As our American cousins are often heard to say, “Go figure!”

Q: Have you any plans to petition English Heritage for a Blue Plaque[1] to be put on the house in West London where Peter Wyngarde lived for most of his life? Thank you. Suzy Kerr

A: In April of 2019, I was contacted by the Chairman of the Earls Terrace Residents Association that wished to have a Blue Plaque affixed to the property where Peter had lived from 1958 until he passed away in 2018. Their suggestion was that the Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society should raise the necessary funds to pay for it – peculiar, since the individual writing to me was a multi-millionaire who I’d bumped into many times there.

Given the manner in which Peter had been  treated by certain residents of the Terrace during the final few years of his life, I declined to assist with the project. Evidently, the Association did’nt realise that the secretary of the Appreciation Society and the person who had been living at the flat and fighting Peter’s corner for some considerable time, was one and the same. Below is my written response to them:

In reply, I was sent a quote from some well-known(?) American poet about forgiveness. I’m afraid that when it comes to anyone hurting or abusing Peter – now or then – there’s no such thing as “forgiveness” on my part!

[1]. London’s famous blue plaques link the people of the past with the buildings of the present. Now run by English Heritage, the London blue plaques scheme was started in 1866 and is thought to be the oldest of its kind in the world.

Q: I hope you’ll forgive me if you consider this question a bit off topic, but I wonder if you could tell me how you went about getting both Sam J. Jones and Steven Berkoff to write the Foreword and afterword to your book? The reason I ask is because I’m currently working on a book of my own and would like to have a well-know personality that’s associated with the subject to write a few words to introduce it. Adrian Haslem

A: Well, in my case, Sam and Steven were both friends of Peter’s, so we were already familiar with each other. The three actors (Joel Fabiani also wrote a short piece for my book), were not only welcoming of my approach, but incredibly generous with their time. Steven Berkoff, for instance, was good enough to call me after reading the transcript of my book, and we spoke at length about its content, and he was kind enough to offer both praise and advice. Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson and I had an online discussion about both Peter and the book, which was really interesting. And Joel Fabiani was, as ever, just wonderful.

All I can suggest is that you make a shortlist of the people you would most like to do the foreword and do some research on them. for instance, have they previously written a foreword, and who their agent or other representative is. Some agents can be incredibly dismissive if you have nothing of substance to show them (be prepared to forward a copy of your manuscript, if requested), so do have your ducks in a row before you write to anyone.

I do hope that this will help, and good luck with your project.

Q: Two questions-in-one: (a) Following the horrendous assault on Peter Wyngarde’s feet in the Japanese pow camp, did the great actor struggle with walking-basic mobility and problems with arthritis in his ensuing years? and (b), his handwriting seemed a bit cramped and perhaps originating from an uncomfortable place. Was he naturally left-handed and forced to adapt to right-handedness in childhood?

May I add that I hope all is well and safe where you are. Mike Dinken, Birmingham, Alabama

A: Fortunately, Peter didn’t suffer any problems with his feet because of the injuries inflicted by the Japanese. It was only in later life that he required the aid of a stick.

Peter was right-handed and preferred to write with a fountain pen. He began to have problems with his hands from the early 90s onward (see earlier answer and examples of his differing signature), but especially during the last decade of his life. His handwriting and signature changed a great deal throughout those years. Thank you so much for your continued interest in Peter.

Q: Love your website! Do you know if ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, starring Peter as Sidney Carton, is available to view anywhere? HarlowGold

A: Unfortunately, like many early plays and series produced by the BBC, it has either been wiped or recorded over., which is an absolute travesty!

While ITV was often considered the poor relation to the BBC – the country’s national broadcaster – most of the former’s works still exist in their own archives.

Q: Why did Peter never appear in Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) while employed by Lew Grade at ITC? Rick Bonnington

A: Firstly, it’s a common misconception that Peter was employed by The Incorporated Television Company (ITC), when his contract was in fact with Scoton – a production company founded and owned by cinematographer, Monty Berman, and writer & script editor, Dennis Spooner. ITC in this instance was merely the distributor, so it’s incorrect that he was employed by Lew Grade/ITC.

At the time that Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) was in production at Elstree, Peter was filming Department S at the same studio, so it would’ve been extremely difficult for him to have made a guest appearance in the former at that time.

Q: Could you please tell me if Peter has a burial plot or was he cremated and his ashes dispersed ? Thank you for your time and consideration. Sam Smith

A: Peter was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium on 25th January, 2018. He wished to keep the whereabouts of his ashes non-public.

Q: Dear Hellfire Hall, I came across your excellent website and wondered if you know in which episode of ‘Jason King’ Peter Wyngarde was dressed as Sherlock Holmes ? Many thanks for any clue. Kind regards, Alexis Barquin

A: The episode is called, ‘It’s Too Bad About Auntie’.

Q: Just discovered your website, amazing and so interesting, never knew all of those things existed. Always a fan, plus all the ITC productions, and a few material items of interest in my own little collection but mostly from Randall and Hopkirk, The Persuaders, The Champions, but I do at least have one “Jason King” Pan Paperback. The item which you mention which I have spent many hours searching for on line is Edwin Astley’s Sheet Music of the wonderful Department S theme. Alas I have never found a copy of it online unlike all the other themes which people have published somewhere or other. I am not a professional musician, but I play keyboards as a hobby and learning that theme is something I have always wanted to do. I have to ask you whether there is any chance of a copy of the notes? I would give you my absolute assurance this would not be for any commercial gain if it made any difference? Failing that, would you know where a copy might be that I could perhaps pursue elsewhere? Andrew Mooresmith

A: The sheet music of Edwin Astley’s theme to Department S was published in the UK by New World Music Limited of New Bond Street, London. in A4 format, with a black and white photograph of the three main characters on the cover. It originally cost 3 shillings (15p).

Sadly, the score is now out of print and almost impossible to get a copy of. I have, however, kept a record of your contact details, and should I ever come across a copy I will let you know.

Q: I recently bought an ‘autographed’ photo of Peter on eBay, but I’m not sure now whether it’s genuine, as the signature looks different from another autographed picture I have of him. Can you help? Malcolm Burrows, Taplow

A: Peter’s signature changed dramatically over the years, and would differ depending on what kind of implement he was using at that time. While he preferred to use his own fountain pen, however, he did sometimes sign with a ballpoint, and more and more regularly in latter years, with a Markie.

The fact that Peter suffered problems with his hands in the final third of his life and occasionally had to wear a wrist/hand brace, this could often affect the way he signed his name. That said, he never, ever refused to sign an autograph for a fan, Having run his Appreciation Society since the early 1990s, I was to fulfil many requests for for his signature from our members, and have lots of “Thank You” letters and cards to prove it.

Below is a selection of Peter’s signatures to compare your autograph with.

Q: I’ve read several times that Peter drove a Jensen Interceptor as Jason King in Department S. I don’t remember that, do you? Mike Eccleston

A: No, I don’t. Where that particular myth came from is anyone’s guess, but it’s been much repeated both in the press and online. Just shows that you can’t believe everything you read.

A Bentley Continental – Jason King’s car of choice

A Jensen Interceptor – NOT Jason King’s car of choice

Q: There is a touching letter on your website, written by Mr Wyngarde to his sister-in-law after his brother’s death. The letterhead is “Peter Macaulay”. I believe from your biography that Macauley was his stepfather’s name, but I hadn’t realised that Peter used the name himself. Was this perhaps reserved for private correspondence, or to be incognito if he wanted to be? Ruslan Yakov

A: Peter chose to change his name in the mid-1940s from Goldbert to Wyngarde, initially for aesthetic reason, but latterly, he wished to distance himself completely from the name – certainly, he did everything in his power during interviews with the press and media to distance himself from the Goldbert family; insisting up to the last few weeks of his life that he had no connection to the name whatsoever.

Given that he was to see his sister and brother only once from the mid-1940s onward, he chose to adopt his stepfather’s name which, as you rightly say, was Macauley. He would use that name on some correspondence, and given that Wyngarde is a somewhat uncommon name in the UK (there was only one other Wyngarde listed in London, for instance) he also used it on the bell at the entrance to his flat.

Q: Hello. Can you tell me how many singles were released from Peter’s album in 1970? Nuala O’Connor

Side A: Peter Wyngarde “LeRonde De L’Amour”

A: There were two, Nuala – see above. The disc on the right, however, was merely a promo – a copy of which could now set you back around £200!

Q: I can see that there have been other’s who have asked about your trademark of Peter Wyngarde’s name and image, but could you please clarify something for me. My mate and I took some photos of Peter at Westminster Film Fair in 2016 and we’d like to print up some T-shirts using one of those images. My friend believes it’s the person who physically took photo who owns the copyright, but I’m not sure. Can you help? Aiden Kinnear – Upper Norwood.

A: Although your friend, as the person who took the photograph(s) owns the copyright to that image or images, he cannot publish it, or give permission for a third party to publish it in any way, shape or form without consent from the Trademark owner. Failure to do so is an infringement and he could face legal action.

As the Trademark owner of Peter’s name and image, I’ve always been willing to waive any or all restrictions to those individuals who wish to use either for positive purposes. However, any attempt to publish scurrilous or libellous material about him by any party or parties, or to print unlicensed merchandise, would be met with the full force of the law.

For further information about the Trademark, please contact Bowington Management at, https://bowingtonmanagement.uk or click here.

Q: I remember seeing a CD many years ago that was made up of Sixties and Seventies TV themes, including (I think) ‘Department S’. I’m certain that it had a photo of Peter on the cover. Have you any idea what it might be? Darren Clarke.

A: I’m pretty sure that you mean ‘Classic 60’s Cult TV Themes’. Released by Castle Music Limited. Catalogue No.: SEL CD 561. It featured the Department S theme by the Cyril Stapleton Orchestra. You can still pick up copies of it on eBay and Amazon.

Q: Was Peter in the ITC series, ‘Espionage’? Only someone is currently selling a complete series DVD on eBay. Thanks. Mark Deakin, Carlton Colville

A: No, Peter never made an appearance in that particular series, so I don’t know how his name has become attached to it.

Q: Did Peter’s mother call her son by his birth name, Cyril, or Peter? Ron Kelsey

A: She called him Peter.

Q: I recently read a very spiteful review of your book online by someone called B**** D***** which stated that you’d spent the entire first half trying to convince the reader that Peter wasn’t gay. Do you have any thoughts on this? Colin Simpson, Croydon

A: The person responsible had been a member of the Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society Facebook group but was barred in October of 2019. Mr D***** clearly felt emasculated by his removal from the group and so decided to regain his fragile male pride by penning this spurious “review”.

In due course, this gentleman’s appraisal was read by several people who were inspired to buy the book – each of whom wrote to say that they’d purchased it because they couldn’t believe anything in print could possibly be as bad as Mr D***** was suggesting. Inevitably, each of them was to give it 5-Stars. What is it they say about no publicity being bad publicity?!

As for the suggestion that I’d “spent the entire first half trying to convince the reader that Peter wasn’t gay!: Much of what was contained in the book about Peter’s female conquests came from his own writings, so it’s really Peter who is being labelled a liar – and by someone who never met him and who knows nothing about him beyond what he’s read in the tabloids! Strange as it might sound to some people, Peter was actually there at the time that these events took place; these amateur critics were not, so who would YOU believe?!

Q: Did Peter celebrate Christmas, only I read somewhere that he was Jewish? D. Johnson

A: This is just another ridiculous myth courtesy of the Internet gossip mill. Both of Peter’s parents were Roman Catholics so, yes, he celebrated Christmas.

Q: Did Peter do National Service in the 1950s? Martin Webb

A: No, he didn’t Martin. Because of his badly injured feet – the result of a punishment in Lung Hau Civil Assembly Centre – he was classed as unfit to serve.

Q: Is it true that Jaz Wiseman who runs the various cult TV websites has some sort of jurisdiction over all ITC-based websites and fansites? Only I seem to remember him having a bit of a hissy fit when Bowington Management trademarked Peter Wyngarde’s name. Aki Leyland, Crossfields

A: No, he doesn’t!

Q: Did Peter have any celebrity crushes?

A: Peter had a bit of a thing about Michelle Pfeiffer, and said that if he had the opportunity, he’d choose to do a love-scene with her in a film above anyone else. After watching the now notorious interview in November 1995, he took quite a shine to Princess Diana, writing the following…

Q: It must’ve been really frustrating for Peter having the 1975 Gloucester incident brought up every time an article appeared in the papers about him. Did he ever talk about it to you? K. O’Shaughnessy

A: Yes, of course he mentioned it occasionally, and while he was quite a pragmatic about things being a glass-half-full kind of person, it did bother him that it was raked up all the time – and not only that, but endlessly exaggerated. Below is what he said about the situation in 2017:

He was absolutely adamant right up to his death that he was innocent of the charge levelled against him but, of course, there are still people who despite their not being there at the time, still believe that they know better, but here it is in his own words.

Q: Could you tell me why there was not more in your book about Peter Wyngarde’s relationship with fellow actor, Alan Bates? I had previously read Donald Spoto’s biography, ‘Alan Bates: Otherwise Engaged’, and had hoped to learn much more from your book. Malcolm Davies

A: I included as much about their friendship as I felt was necessary, given that – in Peter’s own words – “I reckon that, during the seven years we shared the flat, we probably spent less than four months there at the same time”.

It was Mr Spoto that initially implied that there had been something more between Peter and Alan Bates than merely friendship. Peter, however, was horrified when he read what this author had said about him (see below in his own hand), and so he wrote two A4-sized pages about his association with Bates which he gave to me. I was to rely on that account when writing my book.

The above reads in Peter’s own hand: “The American author [Spoto] signed a letter to say he would adhere to my request about omitting material, but managed to send it to me after the book was published which was of course too late.“

This reads: “I cannot tell you how shocked I was when I read what that American biographer had said those unbelievable things about me.

As far as my book is concerned, every statement I have made about Peter and Bates, including dates and times that they were in different parts of the country/world touring, and all other records concerning who was living where and when, are in the public domain and can be verified.

I realise that there are some people out there who are determined to believe Mr Spoto’s account – perhaps because they are gay and are desperate for Peter to have been one of their own, or simply because they have another agenda – i.e. a personal vendetta against me. Either way, it doesn’t matter what any one of these people THINK, or how often they dismiss Peter’s own words to get at me, it will never change the facts.

Q: I hope this isn’t too much of an intrusive question, but could you tell me where Peter is buried as I’d very much like to pay my respects? Tony Harris, Eastleigh.

A: There isn’t a grave as he was cremated. It was Peter’s wish that his ashes should be interned in a place known only to him and myself, which he disclosed to me during the final week of his life. While I understand the need for lifelong fans to pay their respects, I intend to abide by Peter’s dying wish by keeping the whereabouts of his internment a secret.

Q: Is it true that Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees wrote a song for Peter? Edwin Burns

A: Gibb wrote a song entitled, ‘I Will Surrender’, which it was hoped would become a track on a follow up album to his 1970 release. Alas, a second disc was never released. You can see an excerpt from Gibb’s own lyric sheet by clicking here.

Q: I read somewhere that the famous “Peter Wyngarde Smells… Great!” Tabac advertisements were also shown on TV. Is that true? Lisa McNeill

A: There was a live-action version of the ad, but it was only shown in the London region over the Christmas period of 1971.

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Q: Firstly, I’d like to congratulate you on your fantastic book, it really is first class, and enjoyed reading it immensely.

You mention in the book that Thomas Bowington was planning to stage a retrospective of Peter’s life and work back in 2018, but it was foiled by another party. Do you think that such an event could take place in the future? Martin Royal

A: This is something that Thomas and I have discussed again recently, but given the current situation with Covid-19, it’s something that will have to remain on the backburner for sometime yet.

Fortunately, Thomas knows a great many people within the acting and theatrical fraternity, and is extremely well thought of, so it would be relatively easy for him to find a suitable venue in

London to hold such an event. Additionally, many well-known personalities within the profession have indicated that they would be interested in appearing as a guest speakers. Certainly, Joel Fabiani appeared interested in taking part when I last spoke with him.

We will, of course, keep you posted with any development via this website, and both our Facebook group page and Twitter feed.

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Q: I found the following on a Facebook page called ‘Minder TV series. The truth behind the forum’: ‘At the moment a deranged individual is threatening to sue me for using the name “Peter Wyngarde” in my Facebook Group. You couldn’t make it up!’

Is this true? I saw that you have Mr Wyngarde’s name trademarked so I’m concerned as I have several pictures of PW on my own cult tv and film website. Could I be sued? Doug Rowe

A: Firstly, the person responsible for this idiocy has a number of these, ‘The Truth About…’ websites which he uses to vilify anyone he takes a disliking to. His victims have included former friends and, as in my case, a complete stranger who he neither knows nor has ever met.

Since he and his associates have repeatedly brought Peter’s name into disrepute via their hate-filled websites, I posted the following on this ‘site: ‘Any unauthorised party or parties currently using the aforementioned Trademark must cease and desist with immediate effect.’

As you can clearly see from the original post, the caution I issued was NOT directed at any specific individual. The fact that this person managed to identify himself amongst the rabble speaks volumes, as does his misrepresentation of what I actually said. Of course, this wouldn’t be the first occasion on which he has blatantly manipulated the truth to suit his agenda.

As the owner of the Peter Wyngarde Trademark, I am perfectly happy for anyone to post Peter’s name and image on their website, providing that neither are exploited to spread lies and hate about Peter, or any third party.

Q: Is it true that an episode of ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ is based on one of Peter’s TV appearances? M. Mitchenson-Jones.

A: Apparently, the ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ (ST:TNG) episode, ‘Sub Rosa’ is based on ‘The Innocents’.

Peter as the ghost of Peter Quint in ‘The Innocents’

Duncan Regher in ‘Sub Rosa’

Written by Brannon Bragga – a regular ST:TNG script-writer – the episode featured characters by the names of Ned Quint and Jessel Howard which were of course, a nod to the ghosts valet, Peter Quint (Peter), and governess, Miss Jessel (Clytie Jessop) in ‘The Innocents‘,

‘Sub Rosa’ borrowed heavily from Jack Clayton’s film which, itself, was an adaptation of Henry James book, The Turn of the Screw.

Q: How many posters of Peter did Pace produce in the 1970s? I have one, but a friend of mine says that she can remember two being on sale. Angela Cousins

A: There was two, Angela, so your friend is right. There were also several other manufacturers that made posters of Peter – one of the most famous was Sandecor of (West) Germany – see here.

A. Although Peter had in the past dabbled with water colour paints, I never in the 3 decades I knew him, ever saw him use oils. He was more of a sketcher and doodler, and I have many examples of the cartoons he drew on the backs of envelopes, till receipts – indeed anything he could get hold of. Below are a few of those he drew for me in cards and notes he’d leave around the flat for me. (See also ‘Peter’s Cartoons‘).

Q: Could you tell me if there are any ‘Easter Eggs’ on the Network Jason King DVD box set? Rob Hudson

A: There is. If you skip to Chapter 11 of the documentary, ‘Wanna Watch a Television Series? Chapter Two: Fish out of Water, then click your remote control as if you were skipping to the next scene, you’ll find ‘Peter Wyngarde in “The Pink Prisoner” – a 9min, 22sec interview with Peter about his involvement in The Prisoner.

Q: Do you have any honourary members of the Peter Wyngarde Society? Rodney Atherton

A: Yes, we have several. Your email prompted me to post all their names on the Index Page of this website. They include: Melody Anderson, Annette Andre, Steven Berkoff, Vernon Dobtcheff, Anne Frost (Dennis Spooner’s sister), Joel Fabiani, Caron Gardner, Sam J. Jones, Dame Diana Rigg, Anne Sharpe, Tim V.

Q: Did it bother Peter that there were so many untruths written about him in the press? Fergus Atcheson – Ovington

A: I suppose it did in the beginning, but he just became hardened to over the years. One of his favourite sayings was, “I love listening to lies when I know the truth.”

Q: Could Peter speak any other languages? Martin Claes – Liège, Belgique

A: Yes. He could speak fluent French and Russian.

Q: Did Peter have any say in who his co-stars and supporting actors in the films he appeared in? Maria Atkinson – Peterhead

A: No, not in any of the film or early TV plays. He did however, have some say in the casting of Joel Fabiani and Rosemary Nicolls for ‘Department S‘, and he would handpick all the girls that appeared in the ‘Jason King‘ series, including Felicity Kendall, Kate O’Mara, Toby Robbins and Stephanie Beacham.

Q: Could you tell me some of the locations for ‘Night of the Eagle‘ and ‘The Innocents‘? M. Roberts

A: We have an entire page devoted to many of the locations where Peter filmed, including ‘Night of the Eagle’ and ‘The Innocents’. You can find it here.

Q: Is it true that Peter wrote and published a novel under an assumed name in the 1970s? Eric Lavin

A: This one has come up several times over the years but, no, he never wrote a book. He did however, begin writing a Mark Caine novel in the mid-1970s but it was never finished.

Q: When I joined The Official Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society Facebook group, I received a very warm welcome. Thank you. When I lived in France, Peter had a cult status with the likes of FNAC. I had every box set in existence and they sold well there.

Above: A Test Pressing of Peter’s album

I have both bought and sold a few records on eBay in the past, and one day I came across this (see below): a test pressing of his album. I read with interest the piece about the record on this website.; I’m assuming that the words are Peter’s own? To my knowledge, this is the third known test pressing;

1. Peter’s own at auction. 2. A copy has circulated on eBay for years between Spain the UK, going up and down in price (it has his signature on the front cover) – it is always in Discogs. 3. My copy bought from a charity shop in Kent (I admit I didn’t know what it was at the time). Any comments on the word talking and how many are really in existence? David Parker

A: As far as I’m aware, there was only four Test Pressings made (I have Peter’s original RCA contract, and it states that number was made), one of which was given to Peter himself. Whether RCA made any additional copies after the contract was issued, I have no idea. Perhaps someone else will be able to enlighten us. 

Test pressings are made to test the audio responses from the master disc, so there is no hard or fast rule as to how many.. also when they are happy the record company may stamp out ‘several’ to distribute to interested parties .. so I would say it would be unwise to be too prescriptive as the actual number .. quite a few are sent out perhaps to journalists or radio stations .. in 1970 that was limited in the UK.. also being RCA.. who used several pressing plants in those years like Decca and I think CBS in Aylesbury which the PW was pressed at.. you can be sure the number of discs pressed might be a mystery. It is a fantastic object.. but sadly they don’t seem to have a proof sleeve which should exist. Deepinder Singh Cheema

Q: Do you know what brand of cigarettes Peter preferred and how old he was when he started smoking? Ally North – Kingston-Upon-Hull

A: Peter told me that he was around 11 years old when he smoked his first cigarette, but really took up the habit when he was confined to Lung Hau Civil Assembly Centre in China during World War II; he said that he and some of the other boys would pick up butts thrown away by the guards.

In the 1960’s, he started to smoke Sobrani cigarettes, which were imported into the UK from Russia. They became both his and Jason King’s favourite brand. He finally gave up the habit around 1980 after visiting a hypnotist.

A: Why did you trademark Peter’s name? Mia Cook

Q: During the final week of Peter’s life, he asked Thomas Bowington and me to continue do all we could to protect his name and legacy. Since neither of us knew how best to do this, we consulted a friend of mine who is a lawyer that specialises in IP rights, with a particular focus on brand and design protection and exploitation. He recommended that we take out the Trademark.

It is not our intention to make money from the TM, or to stop anyone from using Peter’s name or image in a positive way, since this keeps his name in the public consciousness. We will however, use the relevant legislation under the 1994 Trademarks Act to prevent anyone from cashing in on his name/image with tasteless merchandise or, as we were forced to do recently, from bringing his name into disrepute by using it to abuse other people.

Q: Based on the myth that Peter could be a very demanding person, did he make any specific requests when negotiating his contract with ITC for Department S? Neal Pearson – Workington

A: Well to begin with, the contract he signed was with the production company, Scoton, not directly with ITC. And, no, he made no demands at all. Unlike many of the actors working at Elstree, he didn’t ask for a driver; he provided most of the suits he wore as Jason King himself; he ate with the rest of the cast and crew in the onsite restaurant. and was allocated a dressing room along with everyone else. There was nothing Peter was given that was any different to Joel Fabiani and Rosemary Nicols. So as you can see, the rumours of his egotistical behaviour have been greatly exaggerated.

Q: What was the pendant on the neck chain Peter always seemed to wear in the 1970’s? Roger Bayford

A: It was the figure of a woman carrying a bag and walking with a stick. It has been suggested that it might be the image of the goddess, Fatima, from Arabic culture. It’s a possibility, since Peter visited Morocco several times in the 1960’s and could’ve bought it there.

Q: Have you ever heard of a Simon Milburn? He claims to be a close friend of Peter Wyngarde’s, but has been seen badmouthing you and Thomas Bowington online. Elle Robinson

A: Good lord – not ANOTHER ONE! If only Peter had known he was blessed with so many devoted comrades and bosom buddies. It’s just a shame that none of them could be bothered to show their faces when he was alive!

Although I’ve never heard the name Simon Milburn before (nor, for that matter, have any of Peter’s REAL friends, whose combined association with him amounts to over 250 years), I’ll take a punt that he’s been spewing the same timeworn bullsh*t that his troll mates have been spouting since September 2019.

Right: “Rhubarb! Rhubarb! Rhubarb! Rhubarb! Rhubarb! Rhubarb!”

I can assure you that  there is no such person as ‘Simon Milburn’. – even the most rudimentary enquiry would enquiry would prove that. There is a certain party who have a vested interest in keeping a small gang of ignorant knuckle-draggers perusing an online hate-campaign against Mr Bowington and me. Given how half-witted these people are,  a balloon on a stick would’ve done the job equally as well  and saved the party responsible the trouble of thinking up the name ‘Simon Milburn’! 

My book is my statement with regard to these matters, and I stand by it 100%. If any of the above had a legitimate, legal objection relating to something that Mr Bowington and/or I have said or done, they would not have to resort to online bullying, abuse and harassment.

Q: This cutting is from The Daily Mail. Could you possibly clear up the question of Peter wearing a wig once and for all? Adam Worsley – Loughborough

A: To clear up the ‘Jason King Wig’ matter. In Department S, when Peter was one of three main characters (albeit the best one), his daily filming schedules were less intense. His own hair was fine though, but was always in need of an attentive hairdresser to retain that distinctive look.

For Jason King however, he was in almost every scene, so he and the producers decided to save time and effort by having Peter wear a substantial wig – not to conceal any lack of hair – but rather just to make life and the daily shooting schedules easier. Cult TV Anoraks might have noticed a marked difference across the episodes of Jason King between many foreign location exteriors, and the exterior locations and studio exteriors/interiors shot in England: this was because during pre-production for the series, Peter and a skeleton crew hopped around Europe shooting Second Unit footage of Jason arriving at and departing from a myriad of hotels, restaurants, offices, cafes, etc. This footage was then used to enhance the UK studio-shot scenes and sequences.

Either because the wig decision had yet to be made or because the Second Unit was so small that it did not include Make-Up and a hairdresser, it was Peter’s own hair in all of the European-shot material, intercut with the UK location/studio-shot material in which he was wearing the wig.

No mystery then. No premature balding. Peter had a good head of hair, though fine textured, into his 50’s. Paul Tchaikov (a GENUINE friend of Peter’s).

Q: Don’t know if this is an urban myth, but did Peter ever live or have a house in Morpeth, Northumberland? Sarah Armstrong

A: Peter owned several properties over the years, but never in Northumberland. There are so many myths about Peter supposedly being in this or that part of the country, it’s almost as if he was omnipresent! At least now you’ll be able to shoot that one down the next time you hear it.

Q: As a fan of Triumph cars, any idea what model Triumphs Peter owned or pictures of him in a Triumph? Just wondering.Travis Shick – South Carolina, USA

Left: Peter’s ‘Frogeye’ parked outside his flat in Kensington – 1960s

A: Hello Travis, He owned several Triumph’s over the years, including an Austin Frogeye and a two TR7’s. An article about Peter and his cars is due to be published in the November 2020 issue of ‘Classic Cars’ magazine, so do look out for that.

Q: Did Peter ever direct any of the television episodes he was in? Anne Fortin – Kitchener, Ontario, Canada

A: Unfortunately, no. He did however direct several stage plays, including: ‘Long Days Journey Into Night‘ – March/April 1959; ‘Present Laughter‘ – Autumn 1974; ‘Big Toys‘ – July 1977; ‘The Merchant of Venice‘ – August 1977.

Q: One of my favourite films is ‘The Adventures of Priscilla – Queen of the Desert’. Could you tell me if Peter ever appeared on either stage or screen in drag? A.J. Thomas

A: I suppose the nearest he ever came to drag was in the Jason King episode, ‘Chapter One: The Company I Keep’, in which he disguised himself as a nun.

Right: Peter with Canadian actress, Toby Robbins

Q: I’m not sure if you’ll consider this on or off topic, but could you tell me how the best selling books chart works on Amazon, as I’ve been following sales of your excellent book? Isla Goodwin

A: I’m only just learning about Sales Ranks and best sellers charts myself, Isla. Amazon have a separate chart for each edition of a book; in the case of ‘Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers’, it’s in three categories – Kindle, Hardback and Paperback, and has reached different positions on the associated chart.

Still further, there are a series of other classifications, for instance: ‘Ballet, Biographies & Entertainment’, ‘Actors and Entertainment Biographies’, ‘Theatre Biographies’, ‘Television’ etc.

Lastly, there’s the overall Best-Sellers Rank. According to Amazon, they currently sell over 6,000,000 different book titles worldwide. ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ has constantly been in the top 200,000 since publication, which I’m really proud of.

Q: Is there a part that Peter would’ve liked to play but was never given the opportunity? Sam Haley

A: Although he appeared in a large number of Shakespeare plays over the years, the roles that he converted most were Richard III and Iago in ‘Othello’.

Q: You mention in your book that Peter wrote several other songs in addition to those that made it onto his album. Were they ever recorded? Terry Hart

A: He recorded seven other tracks entitled: Where Shall We Begin? – Silent Thanks To Noisy Yanks – To Call a Man a Man – Colour TV – Merry Christmas – Nurse, Your Hands Are Cold and Taxi Drivers Talk Too Much.

I would suspect that they are in an RCA archive somewhere just waiting to be released.

Q: I read your biography of Peter Wyngarde and think it’s amazing. Can you tell me why did Peter never wrote an autobiography of his own? Paul Lucas

A: He had been working on an autobiography, with him writing in long-hand and me typing it up for him. Sadly, he was to fall ill and passed away before it was completed. However, I was able to quote numerously from his vast notes, and you can read some them by clicking here.

Q: Did Peter have a favourite holiday destination? Nick Lavin

A: Yes – he particularly liked Figi and Mauritius.

Q: Did Peter have any close friends within the acting world? Vic Gamely

A: No one particularly. I’d say that Vernon Dobtcheff was probably the only actor he remained in touch with throughout his life. He also knew Steven Berkoff, and remained in contact with Sam J. Jones and Joel Fabiani. Otherwise, his closest friends were all outside the theatrical profession.

Q: Which actors did Peter most enjoy working with most? Aoife McCarthy

A: He loved working with both Vivien Leigh and Mary Ure in ‘Duel of Angels‘; Sally Home – ‘The Education of Mr Surrage‘, ‘Night Conspirators‘ and ‘Dracula‘, Joel Fabiani on ‘Department S‘; Sam J. Jones – ‘Flash Gordon‘, and Linda Hayden in ‘Underground‘.

Okay, here goes…

1: You have to go out and buy some new clothes.

Do you…

A. Nip down to Millets and ask for a shell suit.

B. Get a sensible business suit from the Freemans catalogue, and pay for it over three years in monthly instalments.

C. Go down to Carnaby Street, find a trendy boutique and purchase a lilac kaftan with psychedelic kipper tie, a pink cravat and a huge gold bracelet.

2: You are invited to a party by the girl of your dreams.

Do you…

A. Turn up early with a bottle of low alcohol wine and your new Des O’Connor CD, and proceed to complain about how many sets of traffic lights you had to pass through on the way there.

B. Turn up on time with four cans of Special Brew, still dressed in your work clothes, and say you have to be home early because there’s football on the telly.

C. Turn up late with a crate of champagne and another girl on your arm. Say, ‘Let’s blow this scene baby, it’s like nowhere.’ Then take them both off for a shag in the back of your TVR.

3: Your idea of a romantic weekend is:

A. A bargain break at Centre Parcs.

B. Fell walking in the Lake District.

C. Flying by private jet to Monte Carlo, where you blow twenty grand at a casino and retire to your luxury yacht in the harbour for group sex.

4: What are your thoughts on smoking and drinking?

A. They are both very bad for your health. You’ve only ever tried sweet cigarettes.

B. You find it easier to chat up a bird after you’ve put a few pints down your neck. You don’t know whether you smoke after sex because you’ve never been conscious enough to look.

C. You smoke 200 coloured cocktail cigarettes every day, and swig claret and champers until they are coming out of your ears. You never drink and drive though, because you’re worried about spilling some.

5: You take a girl out for a meal.

Do you…

A. Ask for salt and vinegar with your chips.

B. Order the hottest vindaloo on the menu at your local curry house and spend the rest of the evening on the toilet.

C. Greet the head waiter like an old friend and smile smugly as he gives you the best table. Then you order in French and spend the evening fending off autograph hunters.

6: You are in bed with a married woman when her husband comes home early. What do you do?

A. Hide under the bedclothes.

B. Apologise profusely and say that you only popped in to read the meter as he punches you repeatedly in the face.

C. Laugh gaily and offer him a glass of champagne before you leap out of the window to land in the driver’s seat of your sports car and roar off into the night.

7: It’s time to buy yourself a new car.

Do you…

A. Get a Micra because they’re cheap to run.

B. Look in The Exchange and Mart to find an old banger, then spend two years taking it to bits only to find you can’t put it together again.

C. Borrow the most expensive Lamborghini in the showroom and smash it to pieces on a test drive. Laugh gaily as you tell the assistant, ‘It’s not fast enough for me.’

8: What do you do for a living?

A. You’ve worked in the Civil Service for 15 years. But it’s a very interesting job, really.

B. You retrieve trolleys on the car park at Sainsbury’s, but at least you get to see the world.

C. Snog sexy women, drink champagne, drive fast cars and write best-selling novels. And you get weekends off.

9: You’ve clicked with a bird and get her back to your flat. But how will you put her in the mood for love?

A. Introduce her to your mum. Crank up your favourite Cliff Richard LP and spend the next three hours explaining the complexities of index-linked pension schemes.

B. Stick the footie on and crack a few cans.

C. Suggest she joins you for a brandy in your giant sunken jacuzzi. Then adjourn to a heart-shaped water bed where there are two other beauties waiting to make the numbers up.

10: Your girlfriend announces she is pregnant.

Do you…

A. Say you’ll be happy to marry her after you check the results of the blood test.

B. Commit suicide by drinking thirty Alcopops on an empty stomach.

C. Laugh gaily, crack some champagne. Then throw a wad of notes in her face and piss off to your luxury yacht in the South of France.

HOW DID YOU DO?

Check your score below to see how you measure up to the Jason King standard.

MOSTLY A: You are what is technically known as a wanker. Friends think you’re more boring than a party political broadcast. You look middle-aged at 30, live with your mum in a semi in Milton Keynes and keep telling your mates how nice those concrete cows are. It’s time to blow your life savings on a lava lamp and tight leather trousers. Or alternatively you could do us all a favour and step in front of a train.

MOSTLY B: You spend far too much time down the boozer with your mates. That beer gut isn’t going to help you pull the crumpet, you know, and neither are those spots or the mullet haircut. Get a life, before it’s too late.

MOSTLY C: Congratulations! You are rich, handsome, carefree, and so bloody smooth that you are always up to your handlebar moustache in adoring females. As for those togs, well when the 70s come back into fashion you’ll be right up there.

Compiled by Alan Bryce.

By Neil Hendry – The Official Ian Hendry Tribute

A couple of years ago, I received an email from Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins, Peter Wyngarde’s beloved soulmate.

Peter and Ian worked together back in the 60s, in a television play called The Crossfire which also featured Eric Portman, Jeannette Sterke and Roger Delgado. Set during the Algerian War, it was first broadcast as part of ITV’s Play Of The Week, on 7th February 1967. And it was that play that first inspired Tina to get in contact with me, some five decades later, to see if I had a copy.

By lucky coincidence, I had been sent a message a year or so earlier, by someone who had found a copy of the play, which included Anglia TV’s famous ‘knight in armour on horseback’ opening.

I was also fortunate to be able to exchange a few emails with Peter. He remembered working with Ian, but could not recall any specific details from the production itself, but was hoping that the recording would help to jog his memory! I made a copy of The Crossfire and posted it off to them.

For someone who was so young at the time, in the early 70s, I didn’t realise that I was corresponding with THE Jason King, until a short while after when I read more about his life and career. And what a wonderful, colourful and varied life he has had, including being kept captive in the Lunghua Civilian Assembly Centre – a Japanese internment camp in Shanghai, during the second world war.

A fellow detainee at that time, was J.G. Ballard, who famously retold the events in the biographically influenced, Empire of the Sun; subsequently made into a film by Steven Spielberg.

In an interview with Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins from 2017, Peter reflected on that time in the Japanese interment camp, when still just a young boy. Tina wrote:

“However, when the Japanese forbade prisoners in one block from communicating with those in another, Peter was used as their runner to spread the radio news through the camp. But then one day he was caught by a guard, who broke both his feet with rifle butts to stop him ever running again. He was then thrown into solitary confinement for a month. When he came out, he could barely walk and had to rely on crutches. His feet still show the signs of that beating to this day.”

I understand that Peter was still active until relatively recently, appearing at special events and reunions, related to the various shows that he appeared in.

Robert C. contacted me via this website[1] in the Spring of 2017 and mentioned that:

“Hope to meet Peter Wyngarde at Portmierion for The Prisoner’s 50th. If I get the chance that is I will ask him about working on Crossfire with Ian Hendry”.

The Guardian’s original obituary was mean spirited and quite frankly, nasty.[2] In my haste to publish an appreciation following a 24 hour domestic power cut, I used a source that I had always relied on previously. On this occasion, I should have been more careful as what I consider to be reputable paper was clearly lacking in editorial control. I have since removed that text from this article and apologise for any offence cause by it’s easier inclusion.

The Guardian subsequently published an appreciation by Toby Hadoke, it seems to try and rectify their earlier mistake and also to add detail on a number of key omissions:Appreciation: Peter Wyngarde obituary – Toby Hadoke, Tuesday 23rd January 2018 – The Guardian

The obituary of Peter Wyngarde overlooked a number of the talents and successes of this suave and charismatic performer who never lost his ability to inspire fascination.

Before Jason King he had an early television success as Will Shakespeare (1953) – a taxing part that earned him the admiration of the production’s pioneering producer/director Rudolph Cartier. By 1965, when lured to play the arrogant and dangerous Baron Grüner in an episode of Sherlock Holmes, he had enough clout for the producers to accede to his agent’s stipulation that on foreign sales prints he – uniquely – be inserted into the opening titles and credited alongside the leads Douglas Wilmer and Nigel Stock, both of whom he was also paid considerably more than).

His quirky tastes embraced cult shows which showcased his versatility and zeal – he is glorious in both of his episodes of The Avengers (1966-67) and a cunning and aloof Number Two in The Prisoner (1967). As the religious zealot Timanov in the 1984 Doctor Who story Planet of Fire he imbues a flawed character with a tremendous tragic dignity.

His non-speaking role in the film The Innocents (1961) is no glorified bit part. He is a memorably spooky, spectral presence and gets second billing, a year after his effective turn as a ruthless gang leader in The Siege of Sidney Street.

His extensive theatre work attracted many good notices from the outset and included Shylock and King John, via Jack Pinchwife (The Country Wife) and more than 200 performances as the lead in The King and I (Adelphi theatre and tour, 1973-74). He also directed productions at the Bristol Old Vic and the Yvonne Arnaud theatre, Guildford.

In later years he was gracious with fans and a writer of detailed and helpful letters crafted in attractive – if minute – handwriting, generously extolling the virtues of colleagues he admired such as Cartier, Wilfred Lawson and Patrick McGoohan: unpredictable talents all, who should give some clue as to where his sensibilities lay.

A perfectionist, he was doubtless sometimes difficult, but the scandal that dented his career should not overshadow the many fine qualities of a charming, seductive, watchable leading actor with an offbeat streak.

In closing…

My heartfelt condolences go to Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins who spent much of her life devoted to Peter. I know she was very close to him and will be feeling a great sense of loss. And to Peter’s agent, Thomas Bowington.[3]

Thomas describes Peter with great affection:

“He was one of the most unique, original and creative actors that I have ever seen. As a man, there were few things in life he didn’t know. I sometimes nicknamed him ‘the King’ because he simply knew everything. He was a mentor on everything you can think of, from sports cars to how to make a good cup of tea and how to do a tie and shirt.

He died at the Chelsea and Westminster hospital [in London], and even then he was saying that you shouldn’t button the upper button on a shirt. As a person he was the most exceptional person I met in my life and a great mentor and teacher.”

Our thoughts and condolences also go to Peter’s many friends and fans around the world.

For those wishing to find out more about the life of Peter Wyngarde, I can really recommend this excellent and authoritative interview from 2017, by Tina Hopkins:

The Ultimate Peter Wyngarde Interview by Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins

Neil Hendry*

Editor, Official Tribute To Ian Hendry

*Neil is Ian Henry’s nephew

Notes:

[1]: The Official Tribute to Ian Hendry

[2]: The first ‘obituary’ was written by Gavin Stewart Gaughan, who was latterly sacked by The Guardian. See ‘Wikipedia: To Theeartofit‘

[3]: Bowington Management

Further to the following newspaper and magazine articles:

BBC News – 18th January, 2018

The Last Word: Obituary series. Matthew Sweet talks about the life and career of Peter Wyngarde Friday, 19th January, 2019. Click here to listen.

Peter Wyngarde, Charismatic Star of ‘Jason King,’ Dies at 90

By Rhett Bartlett – January 18, 2018 1.33am

Aside from playing the louche spy, he headlined horror film ‘Burn, Witch, Burn!’ opposite Janet Blair and popped up as a villain in the camp classic ‘Flash Gordon.’

Peter Wyngarde, the charismatic star of spy series Department S and its spinoff show, Jason King, and a mainstay of British television, has died. He was 90.

Wyngarde died Monday at the Chelsea and Westminster hospital in London, his agent Thomas Bowington announced.

Wyngarde appeared in films such as Alexander the Great (1956), The Siege of Sidney Street (1960) and The Innocents (1961) as well as seminal British television shows including The Avengers; The Saint; The Champions; Doctor Who; and The Prisoner, where he portrayed Number Two in the episode “Checkmate.”

Wyngarde is most fondly remembered for Department S, a spy series that ran for two seasons in the U.K. starting in 1969. He played the suave handlebar-moustached Jason King, an author of adventure novels and a member of Interpol who always seemed to get the girl.

After the success of Department S, Wyngarde’s character was given his own spinoff, simply titled Jason King, that ran for 26 episodes in the U.K. and was syndicated around the world. Mike Myers has cited the dandy lothario spy as an inspiration for Austin Powers. 

In the camp cult classic Flash Gordon (1980), Wyngarde, behind a gold metallic mask, played the menacing General Klytus, commander of Ming the Merciless’ police force. He meets his gruesome end at the hands of the title character (played by Sam J. Jones), who throws him on a platform of spikes.

Wyngarde, who was born in Marseille, France, also headlined the horror film Burn, Witch, Burn! (1962), playing a professor whose wife (Janet Blair), unknown to him, is practicing witchcraft.

He also had a modest career as a recording artist at the height of his Jason King fame. 

A number of British television, stage and screen actors paid tribute to Wyngarde on social media. 

Doctor Who and Department S actor Peter Wyngarde dies aged 90

The actor passed away in hospital after a career spanning 80 years

By Francis Taylor – 18 January, 2018

Actor Peter Wyngarde, the star of Doctor Who and Department S, has died aged 90.

His agent and manager confirmed that he had passed away in a London hospital. He described the Jason King actor as “the most exceptional person I met in my life and a great mentor and teacher.”

After beginning his career on stage in 1947, he went on to act alongside Richard Burton in Alexander the Great. But it was taking the lead role in Department S and its subsequent spin-off Jason King that made him a household name. It was a character that was said to be the inspiration behind the comedy character Austin Powers.

He also played Timanov in four episodes of Doctor Who in 1984.

Wyngarde’s agent, Thomas Bowington, said that the actor was “one of the most unique, original and creative actors that I have ever seen.

“As a man, there were few things in life he didn’t know,” said Bowington. “I sometimes nicknamed him the King because he simply knew everything.

“He was a mentor on everything you can think of, from sports cars to how to make a good cup of tea and how to do a tie and shirt,” he added. “He died at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and even then he was saying that you shouldn’t button the upper button on a shirt.”

Peter Wyngarde, flamboyant actor known for Jason King and Flash Gordon

By Brian Pedreigh – 18th January, 2018

three-piece suits, cravats and open-necked shirts in colours so bright they might hurt sensitive eyes. Wyngarde was a sex symbol, mobbed by women and idolised by the gay community. Although Wyngarde was married for a while, there were persistent rumours of gay relationships, including one with Alan Bates.

It has been suggested he had a showbusiness nickname of Petunia Winegum, though his appreciation society argued that the name was created for a Two Ronnies sketch. In 1975 he was convicted of “gross indecency” with a lorry driver in a public toilet and was fined £75.

Announcing the death, Wyngarde’s agent said he was 90, suggesting he was born in 1927. It seems his father was a diplomat, or according to Wyngarde, some sort of secret agent. “My father took me from my mother when I was a tiny child”, he said. “She was beautiful – a real Claudette Colbert lookalike and racing driver, who was chased all over the place by men.”

His mother was French and married a Russian called Henry Goldbert. JG Ballard, author of Empire of the Sun, said he remembered “the future Peter Wyngarde” in Shanghai as a boy called Cyril Goldbert.

Wyngarde said that in the internment camp the guards caught him taking messages between different blocks and broke both his feet, leaving him on crutches at the end of the war.

He claims he enrolled to study law at Oxford University after the war, but dropped out. He appeared on stage at the Glasgow Alhambra as early as 1946 in a play called Pick-up Girl. He established himself as a maverick and challenging actor, and recalls being sacked from a genteel drawing-room comedy for playing his role in the style of a moody Laurence Olivier.

He shared a London flat with Alan Bates. On rumours of a more intimate relationship, he later said: “All I’ll say on this occasion is that there’s been a lot of speculation and lies written about that time in my life. I certainly feel betrayed by a particular individual to whom I’d previously only ever shown the greatest respect and kindness.”

While working in repertory theatre Wyngarde married a young actress called Dorinda Stevens, but the marriage was short-lived.

He was Sydney Carton in a 1957 BBC adaptation of A Tale of Two Cities and in 1958 he appeared with Vivien Leigh in Duel of Angels in the West End and on a tour that included both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Leigh was married to Olivier at the time, but there seems little doubt that she and Wyngarde were soon in a relationship.

He played Peter Quint in the film The Innocents (1961), a psychology lecturer in the horror film Night of the Eagle (1962) and Number Two in an episode of the cult TV series The Prisoner (1967).

He had a couple of roles in The Avengers (1966-67), including a notable S&M episode in which he whips Emma Peel (Diana Rigg), and in The Saint (1966-67), in which he blacked up to play a Turkish villain.

Wyngarde was reluctant to take the role of Jason King in Department S, the name of an Interpol team that investigates baffling cases such as the disappearance of a plane in mid-air.

Producer Monty Berman was equally reluctant to approve him. It was director Cyril Frankel, who had worked with him before, who wanted him. Frankel said: “He was a very fine actor, but unfortunately a difficult person.”

Wyngarde was appearing in the West End and eventually wrote his acceptance on a napkin at dinner, on condition that each day he would be driven to the theatre after filming.

Jason King was envisaged as a tweedy Oxford don, but Wyngarde reinvented the character as the flamboyant hedonist, remarking on one occasion that it was “a bit too early for coffee… I think I’ll have Scotch.” King was essentially an extension of Wyngarde himself. Wyngarde admitted he was “a bit of a dandy”. He also struggled with alcoholism.

There were two series, first broadcast in 1969-70, but the character proved so popular that he got his own spin-off series Jason King (1971-72), and they found new audiences with video, DVDs and repeats. Mike Myers said King inspired his character Austin Powers.

Wyngarde’s status as a cult star was further enhanced by his appearance as the masked villain Klytus in Flash Gordon (1980). Although viewers could not see his face, the silky voice was recognisable and in context distinctly sinister.

“The one thing I remember most about shooting the film was the weight of the costume,” he said. “Another difficulty was being able to see the other characters, all of whom were wonderfully cast, with a mask over my face.”

Wyngarde went on working occasionally in film, television and theatre – appearing in the Doctor Who story Planet of Fire in 1984 and in Aladdin at His Majesty’s in Aberdeen in 1984-85, but his last credits on IMDB were over 20 years ago. He said his career was ruined by “small-minded people” after his 1975 arrest.

In an interview for his appreciation society just last year he said: “I’m getting letters from a lot of younger people… They tell me that they’ve seen me in Flash Gordon or Night of the Eagle, and then have discovered Jason King as a result.

“I had to phone the hospital a few days ago to rearrange an appointment, and when I gave the lady my name, she said: ‘Wyngarde – like the actor?’ I said, ‘Yes. I am the actor.’ She only sounded about 12.”

Veteran British Actor Peter Wyngarde Dies at 90

By Stewart Clarke – 19th January, 2018

Veteran actor Peter Wyngarde, who starred as flamboyant investigator Jason King in the iconic 1970s British police series “Department S,” has died. He was 90. Wyngarde died in a West London hospital, his agent Thomas Bowington told Variety.

“Peter Wyngarde passed away peacefully in his sleep early evening Monday at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital,” Bowington said, adding that Wyngarde was “one of the most original and truly great actors I’ve ever seen and by far the most exceptional man I have ever met.”

Wyngarde had a long career on stage and screen but is best known as handlebar-mustachioed investigator King. He also appeared in classic series including “The Avengers,”” “The Saint,” and “The Prisoner.”

The King character was an author and investigator in “Department S,” and in 1971 was given his own series, “Jason King.” The show was cancelled in 1972, but Wyngarde continued to appear on stage and screen in Britain and internationally.

His movie appearances included “The Innocents” and “Night of the Eagle.” He also starred in the 1980 movie “Flash Gordon.”

Wyngarde was born in Marseilles, France, to an English father and French mother.

Appreciation: Peter Wyngarde obituary

The Guardian – 23rd January, 2018. By Toby Hadoke. 

The obituary of Peter Wyngarde overlooked a number of the talents and successes of this suave and charismatic performer who never lost his ability to inspire fascination.

Before Jason King he had an early television success as Will Shakespeare (1953) – a taxing part that earned him the admiration of the production’s pioneering producer/director Rudolph Cartier. By 1965, when lured to play the arrogant and dangerous Baron Grüner in an episode of Sherlock Holmes, he had enough clout for the producers to accede to his agent’s stipulation that on foreign sales prints he – uniquely – be inserted into the opening titles and credited alongside the leads Douglas Wilmer and Nigel Stock, both of whom he was also paid considerably more than).

His quirky tastes embraced cult shows which showcased his versatility and zeal – he is glorious in both of his episodes of The Avengers (1966-67) and a cunning and aloof Number Two in The Prisoner (1967). As the religious zealot Timanov in the 1984 Doctor Who story Planet of Fire he imbues a flawed character with a tremendous tragic dignity.

His non-speaking role in the film The Innocents (1961) is no glorified bit part. He is a memorably spooky, spectral presence and gets second billing, a year after his effective turn as a ruthless gang leader in The Siege of Sidney Street.

His extensive theatre work attracted many good notices from the outset and included Shylock and King John, via Jack Pinchwife (The Country Wife) and more than 200 performances as the lead in The King and I (Adelphi theatre and tour, 1973-74). He also directed productions at the Bristol Old Vic and the Yvonne Arnaud theatre, Guildford.

‘What a life. What a legend’: tributes paid to cult TV star Peter Wyngarde

Fans honour the stylish star with tweets and memories.

The Guardian -19th January, 2018.

Writers, celebrities and cult TV enthusiasts are among those paying tribute to the actor Peter Wyngarde, who has died aged 90. Wyngarde was best known for his role as the author and sleuth Jason King in Department S and the spin-off that followed. The character was summed up by one of the most famous lines from the show: “A bit too early for coffee … I think I’ll have Scotch.”

He also appeared in a series of other cult TV shows, including The Saint, The Avengers and a turn as the mysterious Number Two in an episode of The Prisoner.

Many on social media referenced Wyngarde’s distinctive style.

His agent and manager, Thomas Bowington, said: “He was one of the most unique, original and creative actors that I have ever seen.”

People have been sharing their memories of encountering Wyngarde, including a time he signed a copy of a review of one of his performances for Johnny Mains‏ – and passed a verdict on it.

Bob Stanley, author and member of the pop group Saint Etienne, recalled a dinner quip that summed up Wyngarde. “I’m 50% vegetarian, 100% bisexual.”

Tributes have been littered with phrases such as “flamboyant” and “larger than life”. Away from the screen, Wyngarde’s life was complicated.

During a time when it was difficult to be an openly homosexual celebrity, it was known in acting circles that Wyngarde was gay – with Petunia Winegum as a nickname – but it was kept secret from the public. Wyngarde did, though, play the lead in the first gay British TV drama, a 1959 broadcast of a play called South. Set as the US civil war loomed, Wyngarde’s character agonised over his love for an officer.

He was outed publicly as gay in 1975 following charges of gross indecency, and the ensuing scandal saw his television appearances dwindle. During the 1980s and 1990s he guested on shows such as the Two Ronnies and the Lenny Henry Show, and took a role in the Comic Strips Presents film The Yob. His last cult TV appearance came in 1984, opposite Peter Davison in the Doctor Who episode Planet of Fire. The story, which unusually for the show was shot on location in Lanzarote, featured Wyngarde as Chief Elder Timanov.

He also recorded an album in 1970, reissued in the 2000s as When Sex Leers Its Inquisitive Head. One review describes the album as “the kind of thing one would hear if one spent some time with Jason King, who always boasted an air of world-weary bitterness beneath his promiscuous frolicking”. Mostly it features Wyngarde providing narration over various backing tracks. It was withdrawn soon after its original release, owing to controversy over the inclusion of a song called Rape.

Wyngarde will also be fondly remembered for his gloriously over-the-top performance as the gold-masked villain General Klytus, the commander of Ming the Merciless’s secret police force in the 1980 Flash Gordon movie.

Wyngarde’s distinctive style as a TV detective was also much parodied. Mike Myers stated he was the influence for the dress sense of Austin Powers, and Jason King was the inspiration for Mister Six in Grant Morrison’s The Invisibles comic.

Martin Clunes and Harry Enfield got the cue for their The Playboys sketch from him, and Wyngarde also inspired Peter Richardson’s role in the 1993 Comic Strip Presents short film Detectives on the Edge of a Nervous Breakdown.

Wyngarde died at Chelsea and Westminster hospital in London on Monday, having been unwell for a couple of months.

Before Austin Powers there was ‘Jason King’ – and the fabulous Peter Wyngarde who has died aged 90

No one rivalled Jason King, the detective he played in the series of the same name, for sheer insouciant, arch, camp style. But Wyngarde fell victim to the disapproval of a homophobic era‘

By Sean O’Grady – 18 January 2018.

When I was growing up in a little terraced house in Leicester, there would be beamed into our living room telly a glimpse of an impossible glamorous world filled with fast cars, frightening gangsters and one unimaginably stylish and exotic central character – Jason King – played by Peter Wyngard, who has died aged 90.

I remember that he was a writer for a living, imagine that, and had a 1950s Bentley Continental coupe – which he took to the Continent to confront villains in places such as Paris, Vienna or Monaco. He ate strawberries – for breakfast, when we were only just discovering Alpen. He drank champagne at any and all hours, inexplicably.

He was elegant and always surrounded by beautiful things. He had a Zapata moustache, like the popular singer of “Where Do You Go to My Lovely?” Peter Sarstedt or Derek Dougan who played for Wolves, when they were a big club). He was frilly and flared in every way, like the Dr Who of the era, Jon Pertwee, another fully frilly and flared telly hero. He might as well have come from another planet, a sci-fi show such as Space 1999 or The Tomorrow People.

There was a magnificent vogue at the time for rich playboy-style crime-fighters, such as Tony Curtis (plus Ferrari Dino) and Roger Moore (plus Aston Martin V8) in The Persuaders, each and every episode a glorification of violence and sexism. Or The Avengers, a more civilised and surreal take on the genre, with Patrick Macnee in a bowler hat and Diana Rigg in a leather cat suit. No wonder those men who watched telly in the 1970s when they were growing up later found themselves on the wrong side of history, feminism and #MeToo. No TV personality, though, rivalled Jason King for sheer insouciant, arch, camp style.

But then, one day, when I was a slightly bigger kid it all stopped. No more Jason King on his chaise longue in his Chelsea mews home, no more seducing models in clothes made by Balmain, no more sipping Napoleon brandy in his apartment on the Boulevard St Michel.

The shows, harmless escapes from the three-day week and power cuts, and with sometimes ingenious plotting, weren’t even repeated. I had assumed that it was somehow a matter of fashion, and that just as glam rock gave way to punk, so too must Jason King flamingo flights of fancy gave way to The Sweeney’s gritty realism.

It was only much, much later that I read, I think in Private Eye, the reason for Wyngarde’s switch from ubiquity to obscurity. It was an incident that took place in the rather unglamorous and unerotic surroundings of the gents’ loos at Gloucester Bus Station. Wyngarde was caught, very possibly by some sort of a police entrapment, engaged in what was described as an act of gross indecency with a man.

Wyngarde maintained his innocence and proffered the explanation, for why he had been discovered prone in a cubicle, that he had slipped backwards on a piece of soap carelessly left on the floor. He was given a token fine, but this television career, at any rate, was simply over.

Nowadays it wouldn’t happen (the prosecution I mean, not the slipping over on the soap) and we’d condemn the sort of treatment he suffered at the hands of the telly executives of the time as homophobic.

Reading about Wyngarde’s life since it seems he made the best of things and picked up some work in the theatre, and sounded a proud and charming man who hardly deserved what had happened to him. It was a rather backhanded compliment that the various parodies inspired by the lies of Wyngarde – the Austin Powers movies being much the most celebrated – were vastly more famous than the actor who had inspired them. It should have been that Wyngarde would have gone to many more roles on the small screen and, in due course, played a willing cameo to his alter ego in some of those successful – and lucrative – homages to his 1970s persona that later emerged. A shame.

In memory of Peter Wyngarde, debonair star behind Jason King

From the ghostly face at the window in The Innocents to suave spy Jason King in cult TV series Department S, Peter Wyngarde cut an irreplaceable dash in British films and TV of the 1960s and 70s.

By David Parkinson – 18th January, 2018

Peter Wyngarde, who has died at the presumed age of 90, took the role of Jason King in the ITV series Department S (1969-70) because he relished its spirit of adventure. His own life was certainly far from dull and there are often conflicting versions of its key events in circulation. Debates rage about his parentage and date of birth, and whether the renowned French actor Louis Jouvet was his uncle.

But, wherever the truth lies, Wyngarde seemingly caught the acting bug while being interned by the Japanese in the Lunghua Civilian Assembly Centre near Shanghai, where he played all the characters in his own variation on Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

Whether or not he quit law studies at Oxford or abandoned classmates Alan Bates, Albert Finney and Peter O’Toole at RADA (“if you learn too much, you become aware of it; it can become tedious”), Wyngarde’s career almost ended with his debut after he was fired from a 1947 production of Noël Coward’s Present Laughter. Yet, by the time Vivien Leigh gave him a second chance to make good on the stage in Duel of Angels (1958), he had palled up with Richard Burton in Robert Rossen’s Alexander the Great (1956) and become a heartthrob as Sydney Carton in a seven-part BBC serialisation of A Tale of Two Cities (1957).

Although he would seethe anarchist fury as Peter the Painter in Robert S. Barker and Monte Berman’s The Siege of Sidney Street (1960) and prove a hauntingly menacing presence as Peter Quint in Jack Clayton’s masterly Henry James adaptation, The Innocents (1961), Wyngarde found his métier on television rather than the big screen. Having impressed as Sir Roger Casement in On Trial (1960), he guested in a number of cult shows. As John Cleverly Catney, he led a latter-day incarnation of the Hellfire Club in the 1966 Avengers episode, ‘A Touch of Brimstone’, and, later the same year, crossed swords with Roger Moore as The Saint in ‘The Man Who Liked Lions’.

In 1967, Wyngarde’s Number Two tormented Patrick McGoohan during an human chess game in the ‘Checkmate’ instalment of The Prisoner. He would also crop up in The Baron, I Spy, The Troubleshooters and The Champions before he was placed in charge of the Interpol unit charged with cracking cases that had left others baffled, in Department S. Modelling novelist-turned-sleuth Jason King on James Bond creator Ian Fleming, Wyngarde proved so suave and magnetic that he was invited to reprise the character in a 1971 spin-off series.

After one 26-show season, however, he tired of playing this “blasé idiot” who looked “like a Mexican expatriate” and spoke with an “awful English accent”. Yet it would remain Wyngarde’s most iconic role, even though he battled black magic in Sidney Hayers’s Night of the Eagle (1962), revelled in malevolence as secret police chief Klytus in Mike Hodges’ Flash Gordon (1980) and reeked of hypocrisy as a government grandee in James Marcus’s Tank Malling (1989).

He even confronted Peter Davison as the elder of a parched world in the 1984 Doctor Who storyline ‘Planet of Fire’, and enjoyed a degree of notoriety in 1998 when the press latched on to ‘Rape’, a track from a 1970 speak-sing album that had been reissued as When Sex Leers Its Inquisitive Head.

To the end, however, Wyngarde lived up to his definition of sophistication: “To be, but not seem to be.”

Peter Wyngarde obituary – 1927 – 2018: Flamboyant TV star who inspired Austin Powers

by Jane Warren – 19th January, 2018

In the late-1960s TV series Department S and later in its spin-off Jason King, actor Peter Wyngarde was an all-action lady-killer with huge sideburns, a lush moustache and a serious whisky habit.

“A bit too early for coffee, I’ll have a scotch,” was a typical line in a series that was an enjoyable parody of spy and detective dramas such as The Saint and The Avengers.

The flamboyant tailored suits Wyngarde wore for the part were never so tight that he couldn’t karate chop himself out of trouble – a critical consideration as he had insisted his character, based on James Bond creator Ian Fleming, would never carry a gun.

The two series made Wyngarde a huge star. He was once mobbed on arrival in Australia by 30,000 screaming women. 

Some fans would send him intimate items of clothing to sign, others would “throw brassieres all over the car, on the antennae and so on”

…Such was his status that Jason was the most popular choice of name for boys in 1971. Even the children’s show Blue Peter named its Siamese cat after his character. 

But Wyngarde – who has died aged 90 – enjoyed an earlier career as a serious Shakespearean actor and once revealed that he nearly refused the role.

“I looked hideous,” he once said of his on-screen styling. “He was this blasé idiot floating about on screen looking like a Mexican expatriate. I nearly decided not to go with it.”

He relented and came to relish playing “this very romantic extension of me” that allowed him to wear “peacock” fashions of his own devising. He also had a hand in other aspects of the production’s creation. “I was told I was going to be an Oxford professor sitting at his desk solving problems. I thought it was a bit dull. Then I had the bright idea of basing him on Fleming.”

Perhaps this is not so surprising given that Wyngarde’s father is believed to have been a member of the British diplomatic corps, while Fleming’s wartime service working for Britain’s Naval Intelligence Division provided much of the background detail and depth of the James Bond novels.

The actor also persuaded TV bosses to film on location – something very rarely done in the 1960s and 70s due to cost. 

“They agreed to send just me and a cameraman away,” he once explained. 

“When we went to Rome and came across a gaggle of nuns I just ran into the middle of them like some terrible rooster among all these hens. Then we would write stories to fit in with the location shots.”

Jason King was also renowned for its glamorous actresses, many of whom went on to become household names. They included Stephanie Beacham, Kate O’Mara and Felicity Kendal – whom Wyngarde confessed he fancied like mad.

“Why has no woman ever been finally able to tame you?” the actor was asked in 1973 by gay chat show host Russell Harty.

“It did happen once, a long time ago, but I have great choice, great variety,” said Wyngarde drolly of a brief marriage to actress Dorinda Stevens in his early 20s. “I don’t think I’d like to get tied down in any shape or form.”

In fact Wyngarde – who once described himself as “100 per cent bisexual” and was nicknamed Petunia Winegum – had a decade-long affair with actor Alan Bates that is believed to have begun in 1956 after Bates made his debut in Look Back In Anger. 

The relationship was said to have been “a psychologically damaging, Pinter-style situation”. 

In 1975 Wyngarde was fined £75 under his real name Cyril Louis Goldbert for “gross indecency” with a lorry driver in the toilets of Gloucester bus station. 

This followed a caution for similar activities in Birmingham. Although he appeared on stage in South Africa and Austria after the bus-station episode his TV career came to a standstill and he took consolation in drink. 

In a 1993 interview he said: “Jason King had champagne and strawberries for breakfast, just as I did myself. I drank myself to a standstill. When I think about it now I’m amazed I’m still here.”

As attitudes to homosexuality became more liberal Wyngarde made cameo appearances on film, including as a masked villain in the 1980 movie Flash Gordon, but he never forgave the “small-minded people” who had wrecked his career.

But Wyngarde was nothing if not a survivor. Born in France he had spent his childhood in the Far East due to his father’s diplomatic career and was interned in the Lunghua Civilian Assembly Centre outside Shanghai when Japan attacked China.

His feet were broken by a guard who caught him smuggling messages between barracks but the Japanese did let the prisoners put on plays, a concession that showed him his calling.

At the end of the war he returned to England, went to drama school, adopted his stage name and started out in rep before finding success in the West End. But it was as the high camp Jason King that he achieved lasting fame.

Farewell to a Hellfire Club Inspiration

In their latest look at outdated pop culture references in comics, CSBG looks at the real life inspiration for the Hellfire Club AND Austin Powers!

By Brian Cronin – 20th January, 2018

This is Foggy Ruins of TIme, a feature that provides the cultural context behind certain comic book characters/behaviors. You know, the sort of then-topical references that have faded into the “foggy ruins of time.” To wit, twenty years from now, a college senior watching episodes of “Seinfeld” will likely miss a lot of the then-topical pop culture humor (like the very specific references in “The Understudy” to the Nancy Kerrigan/Tonya Harding scandal).

Reader Bruce P. wrote in to note the passing of a major British pop culture icon who also ended up playing a major role in the introduction of the Hellfire Club!

Peter Wyngarde was one of those celebrities that you don’t really get to see any more in the internet age, which is that no one really knows WHAT the heck happened to him during his early life. He told so many conflicting stories about his background that people aren’t even sure that the age he gave upon his death a few days ago was the correct one.

In any event, late in the 1960s, Wyngarde began to make a real career out of notable guest appearances in British TV series, including playing the main villain in the 1966 Avengers episode, “A Touch of Brimstone,” where Emma Peel has to go undercover as a member of the Hellfire Club, of which the leader, Honorable John Cleverly Cartney, is played by Wyngarde with all the over-the-top pomp and circumstance that you would expect from an underground “Sin” club…

John Byrne and Chris Claremont were both teenagers when this episode came out and, probably much like many teenage boys at the time, the episode (particularly Diana Rigg in a corset) likely left a very much lasting impression, as years later, they adapted the Hellfire Club to the pages of the X-Men….

After his success as a guest actor in the late 1960s, Wyngarde was given his own series, where he played the over-the-top international man of mystery, Jason King, in Department S.

King clearly seems to be a visual inspiration for Mike Myers’ Austin Powers (King even said “Groovy, baby” in one episode of his series).

Wyngarde’s Jason King character was also the visual inspiration for Mastermind’s new look as a member of the Hellfire Club, as well as his new name, which was a combination of the Jason King character and the Peter Wyngarde actor to become Jason Wyngarde…

Farewell to an actor so great at being over the top that he left an impression in a multitude of media!

Obituary: Peter Wyngarde

By Michael Quinn – 6th February, 2018

Success in Department S and Jason King brought Peter Wyngarde fame in the early 1970s but cost him a later career on television. Typecast as the flamboyant, womanising novelist and sleuth Jason King, his later small-screen career amounted to little more than a handful of guest spots.

Wyngarde’s own background was itself the stuff of fantasy, the actor deliberately obfuscating his past to create confusion about his date of birth, family name and much else. Increasingly enamoured of the rakish, bed-hopping dandy persona he had created, he found himself wrong-footed by a shift towards what he dismissed as “all that naturalistic stuff”.

The son of a diplomat, much of his early life was spent in Asia. He fled from Singapore to the UK when the Japanese army invaded in 1941 and claimed to have later read law at Oxford. He trained at RADA briefly before finding work in regional repertory companies, making his debut at the Buxton Playhouse in 1946.

Without the mannerisms that would define his later career, he showed considerable early promise, The Stage noting his “outstanding performance [of] power and vitality” as Jonah in Nathan Shaham’s They’ll Arrive Tomorrow at the Irving Palace Theatre in 1952.

His theatre profile continued to rise, appearing alongside Peggy Ashcroft and Joan Plowright in Brecht’s The Goodwoman of Szechwan (sic) at the New Theatre, Oxford (1956), with Vivien Leigh (whom he claimed to have had an affair) and Claire Bloom in Jean Giraudoux’s Duel of Angels at the Apollo Theatre (1958, transferring with it to Broadway in 1960) and taking the title role in Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac and directing Eugene O’Neill’s A Long Day’s Journey Into Night for the Bristol Old Vic in 1959.

The same year, he attracted attention on television with “a stunningly brilliant performance” in Julien Green’s American Civil War-era South, and as a “flashing-eyed, dashing” Petruchio in a broadcast of the Bristol Old Vic’s The Taming of the Shrew.

In 1964, he played Oberon to Anna Massey’s Titania (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) on TV and shared the stage with Margaret Rutherford in Jean Anouilh’s Time Remembered at the New Theatre, Bromley.

He was seen in the world premiere of Tennessee Williams’ The Two-Character Play at the Hampstead Theatre (1967) and an adaptation of Chekhov’s novel The Duel at the Duke of York’s Theatre (1968).

He made several visits to Austria, South Africa and Australia, where he appeared in the premiere of Simon Gray’s Butley in 1971.

Returning home, he was the eponymous Siamese royal in The King and I for 260 performances at the Adelphi Theatre. Later West End appearances included Marcelle Maurette’s Anastasia (Cambridge Theatre, 1976), Michael Sloan’s Underground (Prince of Wales Theatre, 1983) and William Wycherley’s The Country Wife (Mermaid Theatre, 1990).

Other notable television credits included Sydney Carton (A Tale of Two Cities, 1957), Rupert of Hentzau (1964), The Avengers (1966-67) and Doctor Who (1984), while on film he memorably played the masked Klytus in Flash Gordon (1980).

He was married to the actor Dorinda Stevens and had a long-term relationship with the actor Alan Bates. In 1975, he was found guilty of gross indecency after an incident in a public toilet and was declared bankrupt in 1982.

Peter Wyngarde was born Cyril Louis Goldbert on August 23, 1927 (some sources claim 1926 and 1928) and died on January 15.

Peter Wyngarde 1928 – 2018

Starburst – 18th January, 2018

Few actors epitomised the gaudy stylishness of the 1960s and early 1970s better than the charismatic Peter Wyngarde, who passed away on January 15th after a short illness at the age of 90.

Although he kept his true age – and, indeed, much of his own personal biographical history (he spent time as a child during the Second World War at an internment camp for children near Shanghai) – shrouded in mystery, Peter Wyngarde (his birth name, at least, is accepted as Cyril Goldbert) was a regular on many of the classic ITV adventure series of the 1960s including The Saint and The Avengers and he appeared as No 2 in ‘Checkmate’, an episode of Patrick McGoohan’s The Prisoner in 1967. But he became an “overnight sensation” in 1969 when he was cast as flamboyant thriller author/investigator Jason King on ITC’s Department S (think X Files without the torches…or monsters or alien invasion conspiracies) alongside Rosemary Nicholls and Joel Fabiani. TV had never seen a hero quite like King, with his extravagant champagne-quaffing lifestyle, extraordinary fashion sense and luxurious  handlebar moustache – although he was nearly an entirely different character, as he told Hellfire Club (named after his appearance in the legendary ‘A Touch of Brimstone’ episode of The Avengers in 1966), the Peter Wyngarde Appreciation Society, just last year. “When Department S was being planned, I was told that I was going to be an Oxford professor sitting at his desk solving problems for two Americans. I thought it was a bit dull. Then I had the bright idea of basing him on Ian Fleming. The clothes were sort of an extension of me. I was a bit of a peacock then. I loved clothes, but I didn’t much like the kind of fashions that were about for guys in those days. Then I saw a picture of an Edwardian riding jacket and I thought it had real style, so I did some drawings and had a similar coat made.” King was an instant hit, a worldwide sex symbol, and the character was resurrected in a less-successful and more mundane series (Jason King) in 1971.

Wyngarde more or less disappeared from TV screens during the rest of the decade but his career flourished on stage and he had little time for critics who insisted that his career had become derailed. “That’s because they haven’t the intellect to notice that there are mediums other than television,” he told Hellfire Club. “If you’re not on the box every week they think you’ve disappeared! My first love was always the stage, and after Jason King ended, I couldn’t wait to return to the theatre. I feel that if some journalists had a brain, they’d be dangerous!”

Notable screen roles followed though. In 1980 he played Klytus in Flash Gordon and appeared in the 1984 Doctor Who serial ‘Planet of Fire’ alongside Peter Davison’s fifth Doctor. “I’d been asked to appear in the series in the 1970’s, but it was due to be filmed entirely on a soundstage, which I’d have hated, so I turned it down. When ‘Planet of Fire’ came about, I was told that we’d be filming almost exclusively on location (the serial was filmed in Lanzarote), so I jumped at the chance. It gave me the opportunity to do a lot of sunbathing between my scenes, which I love.” In 1994 he appeared as Langdale Pike in Granada’s acclaimed Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes series  with Jeremy Brett as the Great Detective. He left a stage production in 1995 after contracting a throat infection and much of his subsequent work involved providing voiceovers and narrations and attending fan events celebrating the ‘golden age’ of classic and cult television.

A vibrant, outspoken and outrageous talent – “He was one of the most unique, original and creative actors that I have ever seen,” said his agent/manager Thomas Bowington – Peter Wyngarde might not have scaled the professional heights of some of his contemporaries and Jason King might not have been the work he’d have preferred to have been remembered for but in both Department S and his own series he  created a character and an image which in many ways helped define both a generation and a decade.

Peter Wyngarde: Cult TV star who inspired Austin Powers dies aged 90

BBC – 18th January, 2018.

Wyngarde played dandy detective Jason King in the 1970s TV show of the same name – which was a partial inspiration for the Austin Powers films. He had numerous stage roles, as well as playing the gold-masked Klytus in Flash Gordon and Timanov in Doctor Who. His agent and manager, Thomas Bowington, described him as “one of the most unique, original and creative actors” he had seen.

“As a man, there were few things in life he didn’t know.”

“I sometimes nicknamed him The King because he simply knew everything,” Bowington added.

Wyngarde started his career on stage, in a production on Noel Cowards’ Present Laughter at Birmingham’s Theatre Royal in 1947; and later starred opposite Richard Burton in the big-screen adaptation of Alexander the Great.

In 1959, he starred in ITV’s South – which some have claimed was the first gay drama on British television.

Set during the US Civil War, it featured Wyngarde as a Polish army lieutenant Jan Wicziewsky, who must decide who he loves: Miss Regina, a plantation owner’s niece; or a tall, rugged officer called Eric MacClure.

Broadcast live at a time when homosexuality had not been decriminalised in the UK, the drama received scathing reviews in the press.

“I do NOT see anything attractive in the agonies and ecstasies of a pervert, especially in close-up in my living room,” noted The Daily Sketch’s critic.

“I think you have to give Wyngarde a massive pat on the back in terms of the bravery in taking this role,” said BFI curator Simon McCallum when South was rediscovered five years ago.

The furore over the programme did not affect the actor’s career, and he guest-starred in a number of 1960s television shows including The Saint, The Prisoner and The Avengers before debuting Jason King in the spy drama Department S.

The character proved so popular that Wyngarde got a spin-off series, which made him a household name in the US and Australia.

He started his own fashion column in a daily newspaper and, after Australian women voted him the man they’d most like to have an affair with, was mobbed at Sydney airport.

“It was one of the most terrifying experiences I can remember,” he later recalled. “They got me to the ground, tore my clothes, debagged me… I was in hospital for three days.”

Wyngarde was briefly married to actress Dorinda Stevens in the 1950s, and then had a long-term relationship with actor Alan Bates.

His career suffered a setback in 1975 when he was arrested and convicted of “an act of gross indecency” with a lorry driver. He was fined £75 by magistrates under his real name Cyril Louis Goldbert.

The star said the conviction upset him deeply, but did not affect his career. However, his days as a leading man were largely finished.

He attributed his decline to type-casting by “small-minded people”, but homophobia was undoubtedly a factor.

King remained his best-known character, a globe-trotting playboy with an astonishing array of outfits. And it wasn’t just his sartorial extravagance that inspired Mike Myers to create Austin Powers: King even uttered the phrase “groovy, baby” in one episode.

“I decided Jason King was going to be an extension of me,” he once said. “I was inclined to be a bit of a dandy – I used to go to the tailor with my designs.”

However, he took the character’s lifestyle a bit too literally, battling alcoholism in the 1980s. He only quit after cutting ties with a close friend in a fight he couldn’t remember.

“Jason King had champagne and strawberries for breakfast, just as I did myself,” he told The Observer in 1993.

“I drank myself to a standstill. When I think about it now, I’m amazed I’m still here.”

Wyngarde died at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London after being unwell for a few months.

His agent said that, despite his age, the actor had roles and appearances lined up for the coming year.

Mark Gattiss was among those paying tribute on Twitter.

“What a life. What a legend. Jason King is dead. Long live Jason King!”

Fellow Doctor Who writer Paul Cornell also paid tribute, acknowledging that many details of Wyngarde’s life, including his place of birth and parentage, were unclear.

“It’s terrible and impossible that #peterwyngarde is dead,” he wrote, linking to the star’s uncharacteristically caveat-heavy Wikipedia page.

“Such an extraordinary, detail-disputed, life. He was oddly magnificent.”

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