Jon Pertwee
Jon Pertwee | |
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 Pertwee in March 1996 | |
| Born | John Devon Roland Pertwee 7 July 1919 Kensington, London, England |
| Died | 20 May 1996 (aged 76) Sherman, Connecticut, U.S. |
Resting place | Putney Vale Cemetery, London |
| Education | Royal Academy of Dramatic Art |
| Years active | 1938–1996 |
| Spouses |
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| Children | 2, including Sean |
| Father | |
| Relatives |
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| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
Branch | Royal Navy |
Service years | 1939–1945 |
Rank | Ordinary seaman |
| Service number | P/JX178358 |
John Devon Roland Pertwee (/ˈpɜːrtwiː/ PUR-twee; 7 July 1919 – 20 May 1996), known professionally as Jon Pertwee, was an English actor. He is best known for portraying the third incarnation of the Doctor in the television series Doctor Who from 1970 to 1974. He is also recognised for starring in the BBC Radio sitcom The Navy Lark (1959–1977) and playing the title role in the television series Worzel Gummidge (1979–1981) and Worzel Gummidge Down Under (1987–1989).
Born into a family of actors and writers, Pertwee's rebellious behaviour led to his expulsion from two schools and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He subsequently took small parts in repertory theatre, including productions written by his playwright father Roland, and later performed in radio and films. During World War II, Pertwee served in the Royal Navy and worked in the Naval Intelligence Division. Post-war, he became known for his comedic voices and impressions, particularly on the radio programme Mediterranean Merry-Go-Round. He played Chief Petty Officer Pertwee and various other roles in The Navy Lark, and appeared in four films in the Carry On series from 1964 to 1992.
In 1969, Pertwee was cast as the Third Doctor in the BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who. Despite his reputation as a comic actor, Pertwee introduced an action-oriented "leading man" interpretation of the character, influenced by contemporary espionage fiction and his own enthusiasm for gadgets and fast vehicles. He later hosted the ITV game show Whodunnit? (1974–1978). Pertwee enjoyed renewed success as the scarecrow Worzel Gummidge in a Southern Television adaptation of Barbara Euphan Todd's children's books; after its cancellation he successfully campaigned for a sequel series produced by TVNZ. In his later years he maintained a close association with Doctor Who by attending many fan conventions and reprising the role in various productions, including in the anniversary television specials "The Five Doctors" (1983) and Dimensions in Time (1993).