Published on

These British Icons Have A Thing Against Retirement And We Aren't Complaining At All

Charles Dance –The Imitation Game – Born in 1946

Named after the famous playwright from the 19th Century, Charles Dance perhaps saw a future in performing arts as his birthright. In the ’70s, he spent time with the Royal Shakespeare Company, appearing in productions like “Coriolanus” and “Shadowlands.” Dance’s talents shone through during all of his stage performances. But he became a household name in film and television.

Then he became known as the man to call whenever a movie script required a proper villain. Dance played the role to perfection in “The Professionals,” “Bleak House,” and “Strike Back.” He also appeared in the 2022 drama series “The serpent Queen” playing the part of ‘Pope Clement.’

David McCallum – NCIS –Born in 1933

David McCallum, star of “The Great Escape” and “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” gained recognition for his role in the latter back in the ’60s. But whenever fans hear his name nowadays, they’re quick to remember his long-running role as medical examiner ‘Dr. Donald Mallard’ on “NCIS.”

Two decades is a long time to spend playing any role, but as of 2022, McCallum was nearing that milestone. He began his media career as a stage manager at the Glyndebourne Opera Company. But even as he moved on to taking voice roles at BBC Radio in 1947, he still couldn’t give up his dreams of appearing on the big screen.

Jack Dee – Lead Balloon –Born in 1961

English stand-up comedian Jack Dee is a sort of godfather to many newcomers in the industry. And he earned much of their appreciation for paving the path for would-be comics. Don’t let his self-acclaimed title of ‘grumpiest man in comedy’ fool you, though. Dee can make anyone laugh their socks off with minimal effort.

He made his stage debut in 1986 at an open-mic gig at “The Comedy Store.” Now, he’s known for his numerous appearances on shows like “Lead Balloon” and “Have I Got News for You.” In 2021, Dee put his deadpan humor to good use in his book “What is Your Problem?”

Glenda Jackson –Women in Love – Born in 1936

Where most actors shy away from any involvement in politics, Glenda Jackson took that challenge head-on. Today, when we speak of her achievements as a two-time Academy Award winner, we also have to mention her successful political career.

Jackson took some time off from acting to serve as a member of parliament for Hampstead and Highgate from 1992 to 2015. Upon returning to the screen, she wasted no time carting away a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her role in the 2018 revival of “Three Tall Women.” She also played the older ‘Jane’ in the 2021 “Mothering Sunday.”

Judi Dench– Skyfall – Born in 1934

Everyone loves Judi Dench. Even those who’ve seen her in films like “Notes on a Scandal” and “Skyfall” but recognize her by face rather than name. And her devotees come from all corners of the block too. Some came to know her because of her impressive performances on stage.

While others grew to love her after watching her take on the most diverse characters across multiple film genres. Yet there are some who are more taken in by her distinctive voice than her acting prowess. In many ways, the multiple-award-winning Dench has spent six decades garnering a faithful group of fans. And she’s not done yet.

Anne Stallybrass –The Strauss Family – Born in 1938

Anne Stallybrass got her acting training at the Royal Academy of Music in London. When she finally kicked off her acting career, it was in the area of television. The younger generation may have a hard time remembering her portrayal of ‘Queen Elizabeth II’ in “Diana: Her True Story,” which was released in 1993.

But they’d surely have an easier time recalling Stallybrass’ role in the 2015 movie, “A Song for Jenny.” That was her last screen role before stepping away from the spotlight. But she’ll be remembered for her performance in “The Strauss Family,” which earned her a British Academy Television Award nomination.

Angela Lansbury –Murder, She Wrote – Born in 1925

Angela Lansbury was one of the last surviving stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood. And we put this forward as a backdrop to her extensive career in film, television, and on stage. For eight decades, she dazzled us all on an international stage, and her vast body of work bears witness to her glorious career.

Lansbury is the star of the mystery series “Murder, She Wrote,” which turned out as the longest-running and most popular drama series in television history. In true style, she again made her way into another whodunit series in the 2022 “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.”

Peter Kay – Phoenix Nights –Born in 1973

Peter Kay is another comedy king who wormed his way into the collective consciousness of the British people and never made his way out. Born and raised in Bolton, he began performing stand-up part-time until 1997, when he won the “So You Think You’re Funny” contest on Channel 4.

By the early ’00s, Kay had become a recognizable name even outside the comedy scene. He also co-wrote and starred in shows like “That Peter Kay Thing” and “Phoenix Nights.” He was back at the top of his game in 2021, performing at two sold-out shows at the Manchester 02 Apollo.

Thelma Barlow –Coronation Street – Born in 1929

Thelma Barlow is an actress best known for her role on the popular ITV series “Coronation Street.” There’s something about the cobbled streets that sets its hooks into members of the cast, and the same happened with Barlow. That explains why she spent 26 years appearing in almost 1,800 episodes of the show.

After leaving, Barlow took her talents to the stage, playing ‘Madame Arcati’ in “Blithe Spirit” and ‘Abby Brewster’ in “Arsenic and Old Lace.” She also appeared in the 2016 biographical drama “Florence Foster Jenkins.” We also know that Barlow has a massive green thumb, as proven by her 1992 book, “Organic Gardening with Love.”

Michael McIntyre – Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow –Born in 1976

From stand-up comedian to award-winning writer and television host, Michael McIntyre has come a long way since his humble beginnings in the late ’90s. He was even named the highest-grossing stand-up comedian in the world in 2012. So what does one do to achieve that kind of renown?

For McIntyre, the key was appearing in multiple BBC shows, as well as comedy panels like “Mock the Week,” “Would I Lie To You?” and “Friday Night with Jonathan Ross.” Then he moved to host his own shows, a feat he continued in 2022 with “The Wheel.” McIntyre is also the author of the 2021 memoir “A Funny Life.”

Anne Reid –Coronation Street – Born in 1935

Wonder what would have become of Anne Reid if she’d made a different choice and followed through with her father’s love for journalism. Then we would have never seen her portrayal of ‘Valerie Barlow’ on “Coronation Street.” By all accounts, that’s a big win for the entertainment industry.

Reid got her feet wet by taking on roles in television programs like “The Benny Hill Show” and “The Adventures of Robin Hood” before she made her way to the cobbles. But she’s been just as active since leaving “Coronation street.” After all, 2022 saw her reprise the character of ‘Lady Denham’ in “Sanditon.”

Patrick Stewart –X-Men – Born in 1940

Patrick Stewart is one of the biggest icons on this list, and that takes a lot of doing. His masterful acting has had the industry in a chokehold for seven decades, and he’s shown no signs of slowing down. If he were to even consider retirement, he’d have dozens of awards to keep him company.

Stewart is a familiar face to fans of million-dollar franchises like the “Star Trek” and “X-Men” series. But those fans may not know that he enjoyed substantial success on Broadway and even made a brief appearance on “Coronation Street” before making his debut on the big screen.

Eileen Derbyshire –Coronation Street – Born in 1931

Eileen Derbyshire is more proof that there’s some magic to “Coronation Street.” We’re not just talking about the intricate plot that’s been woven since the show premiered in 1960. Instead, we mean the special sauce that allows it to hold on to its stars for so long. Derbyshire played the role of ‘Emily Bishop’ on the show for 55 good years.

Her decades of commitment make her the longest-serving female cast member of a British soap opera. And since leaving in 2015, she’s maintained a relatively low profile. This comes as no surprise to fans who are well aware of her love for privacy.

Jessica Benton– The Onedin Line – Born in 1948

“The Onedin Line,” tells the story of a man’s determination to start a shipping line in Liverpool. And Jessica Benton was at the heart of this gripping plot, playing the role of ‘Elizabeth Onedin.’ She may have other titles in her discography, including “Upstairs, Downstairs” and “The Duchess of Duke Street.” Yet Benton will always be remembered for her breakthrough role in that BBC series.

Jessica Benton– The Onedin Line – Born in 1948SponsoredSkip the Tariffs, Find Chemistry!Alphamode | SponsoredSponsoredSenior Singles: Dating Starts HereAlphamode | Sponsored

After “Onedin Line” ended, Benton stepped away from the acting scene. But she didn’t keep idle. Instead focused her drive and dedication on the advancement of women’s rights. She was also active in campaigns for wildlife conservation.

Joely Richardson –Nip/Tuck – Born in 1965

No one gets to be born into a family like Joely Richardson’s without developing an affinity for the arts. But despite the theatrical predisposition of her parents and grandparents and her training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she nursed some ambitions of becoming a professional tennis player. However, life did what it does, and Richardson eventually turned to acting.

At the mention of her name, most are reminded of her role as ‘Julia McNamara’ in “Nip/Tuck.” But she also co-starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 2015 zombie thriller “Maggie.” And in 2022, she played ‘Jackie Sowden’ in the drama mystery series “Suspect.”

Kevin McNally– Supernatural – Born in 1956

At 16, Kevin McNally was already on his way to becoming a renowned actor. From working at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, he got a scholarship to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1973. All that training must have done some good because he won the Best Actor Bancroft Gold Medal two years later.

Of course, current fans of his work may find his role in the dark fantasy series “Supernatural” much more relatable. McNally is also one of three actors to appear in all five “Pirates of the Caribbean” films. And we also can’t forget his voice role in the “Assassin’s Creed III” video game.

Leonard Whiting– Romeo and Juliet – Born in 1950

Young Leonard Whiting was the women’s idea of a dreamboat after he was cast to play ‘Romeo’ in the 1968 film version of Shakespeare’s widely celebrated play “Romeo and Juliet.” And we know his performance was astounding because it earned him a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year.

Leonard Whiting– Romeo and Juliet – Born in 1950SponsoredFind Love Overseas Without the HassleAlphamode | SponsoredSponsoredThe Top 15 Most Beautiful Athletes – Can You Guess Who’s #1?Alphamode | Sponsored

But Whiting has more to show than his exemplary acting. He also has a voice that could quite possibly move mountains. That explains why Alan Parsons tapped him to perform lead vocals on “The Raven.” The last we saw of him was in 2015 when he played ‘Julia’s Father’ in “Social Suicide.”

Liam Neeson– The Grey – Born in 1952

There are good actors. There are very good actors. And then there’s Liam Neeson, who’s one of the best. It goes further than his piercing gaze and ability to pull off the most courageous moves in action movies. Neeson also has a certain unexplainable charm that makes his famous phone call in “Taken” one of the most popular memes in internet pop culture.

Neeson has earned a reputation for his effortless juggling of critically acclaimed dramas and blockbusters. His vast discography certainly bears witness to his success. But did you know Neeson was the wizened lion ‘Aslan’ in the “Chronicles of Narnia” series?

Maggie Smith– Downton Abbey – Born in 1934

It’s a marvel that one of the most celebrated actresses in the world today was born to working-class parents, one a secretary and the other a teacher. Maggie Smith is revered and adored for her seven decades-long dedication to the area of performing arts.

With 70 plays and just as many film titles to her name, one would think she’d be getting ready to step off the plate. But she proved how unlikely that is in 2021 when she appeared in “A Boy Called Christmas.” Fans have a lot more to love Smith for, as she’s also one of few artists to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting.

Malcolm McDowell– A Clockwork Orange – Born in 1943

Malcolm McDowell, like many on this list, took acting classes at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Afterward, he began working as an extra with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Through hard work, talent, and a sprinkling of luck, he was able to make it big. And it all started with his breakthrough role in Lindsay Anderson’s “If.”

McDowell also earned more recognition for his performance in the film adaptation of “A Clockwork Orange.” So now, more than 50 years later, he is still described as one of the most prolific performers of his time. Fans were happy to see him in the 2022 film “Father Stu.”

Michael Caine –The Dark Knight – Born in 1933

Michael Caine is a British film icon. You’d think that would mean he’s only renowned within the United Kingdom, but his fame and talents are much more widespread than anyone can imagine. And after multiple excellent performances across a wide range of cinematic works, Caine is more than deserving of his Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and dozens of other accolades.

From “The Italian Job” to “Alfie” and “The Dark Knight,” it’s almost impossible to find one movie where Caine didn’t give his best. And as the gift that keeps on giving, he played ‘Lord Boresh’ in the 2022 historical drama film “Medieval.”

Bruce Willis – Die Hard – Born In 1955

Movie buffs will remember Bruce Willis for his iconic roles in “Die Hard,” “The Sixth Sense,” and “Pulp Fiction,” so despite not appearing in the scene in 2023, it is hard to forget about his stellar performances. Unfortunately, fans will have to relive his acting skills by binge-watching old releases because he announced his retirement in 2022.

Even when we don’t see him much, his immediate family, including his ex Demi Moore, has been spending a lot of time with Willis during this difficult time. Still, his wife, Emma, clarified that the “Ghost” star didn’t move in with them despite malicious reports that circulated.

June Brown– EastEnders – Born in 1927

June Brown has received a Best Actress Award, Lifetime Achievement award, and a BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress nomination, all for her performance as ‘Dot Cotton’ in “EastEnders.” That alone proves that she brings something special to the role. So, of course, fans were unhappy to see her go in 2020 when she announced she’d be leaving the show for good.

Outside of “EastEnders,” Brown also appeared in films like “Murder by Decree,” “Margery and Gladys,” and the 2016 “Ethel & Ernest.” Her work on stage is also marked by titles like “An Inspector Calls,” “The Lion in Winter,” and “Calendar Girls.”

Pam St Clement– EastEnders – Born in 1942

Pam St Clement is one of the longest-serving cast members of “EastEnders.” This is exceptional, considering that the role of ‘Pat Butcher’ was written into the plot with no long-term goal. However, St Clement won the hearts of the show’s executives as well as avid fans, so she had to be introduced as a regular character.

Pam St Clement– EastEnders – Born in 1942SponsoredThe Top 15 Most Beautiful Athletes – Can You Guess Who’s #1?Alphamode | SponsoredSponsoredFind Love Overseas Without the HassleAlphamode | Sponsored

She said goodbye to the show in 2011. And not up to a year later, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award for her compelling performance spanning over two decades. Her last screen role was in 2017 when she appeared in two episodes of the drama series “Casualty.”

Anthony Hopkins –The Silence of the Lambs – Born in 1937

Of all the actors who’ve depicted the fictional ‘Hannibal Lecter’ on screen, Anthony Hopkins remains the most memorable. Anyone who’s seen “The Silence of the Lambs” can attest to his eerily poignant portrayal of the criminal psychopath, which won him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Hopkins went on to showcase his skill in films like “The Bounty” and “The Mask of Zorro” before making his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the “Thor” franchise. Hopkins also earned his second Oscar for his performance in the 2020 psychological drama “The Father.” To think he was once a young man struggling to overcome stage fright.

Barbara Knox –Coronation Street – Born in 1933

When people describe Barbra Knox as a veteran actress, they usually refer to her title as the second-longest serving cast member on “Coronation Street.” She’s played her part so well for so long that she’s practically synonymous with the fictional character ‘Rita Tanner.’

Before her television debut, Knox began her career on stage, performing at the Oldham Coliseum Theatre in Great Manchester. She also took a minor role as a dancer in the 1969 remake of “Goodbye, Mr. Chips.” But it wasn’t until she stepped foot onto the cobbled streets that her career took off. And as of 2022, she was still waxing strong.

Charles Shaughnessy –Days of Our Lives – Born in 1955

Charles Shaughnessy was born into showbiz, so it’s not surprising that he began starring in plays right from his primary school days. He could have followed in his father’s footsteps and become a scriptwriter. But he opted for acting like his mother, Jean Lodge. But we may have never gotten to know him if he wasn’t cast in “Days of Our Lives.”

Shaughnessy’s role in that soap opera earned him widespread recognition and opened the door for more opportunities. Like his voice role on “Stanley,” which won him a Daytime Emmy Award. He’s also a regular on the crime drama series “General Hospital.”

Derek Jacobi –Gosford Park – Born in 1938

Derek Jacobi has a secure hold on the entertainment industry because there aren’t many talents like him out there. Many actors shine best in portrayals of characters that appeal to the masses. However, Jacobi’s performances often center around revealing the unappealing aspects of his character to showcase their flawed humanity.

This particular talent of his is best appreciated in his stage performances, including “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “The Tempest.” Yes, he does have a preference for Shakespeare’s works. But Jacobi is also known for his role in “Gosford Park,” and more recently “Allelujah,” which was a departure from his more classical film roles.

Elizabeth Rees-Williams– Graham’s Gang – Born in 1936

Elizabeth Rees-Wiliams is probably the least familiar name on this list. But only fans of the ’70s comedy series “Graham’s Gang” would think otherwise. The show ran for two years and followed the adventures of ‘Graham’ and his friends as they tried to prevent ‘Mildred’ from joining their ranks.

Rees-Williams had a minor role in that show. But she also appeared in the television series “Question Time” and the 2006 documentary “50 Films to See Before You Die.” So unlike the more prolific actors we’ve come across so far, Rees-Williams wasn’t all that passionate about pursuing acting on a long-term basis.

Hugh Grant– Love Actually – Born in 1960

Hugh Grant is a British icon known for titles like “Maurice,” “Restoration” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral.” In fact, that last one was the film that set him on the international stage. He also received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor and the British Academy Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in the 1994 film.

After being on the silver screen for over three decades, Grant still finds being on the set as enjoyable as it was at the start of his career in 1982. And when it comes to romantic comedies, it’s difficult to decide between his role in “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually.”

Jacqueline Bisset– Bulitt – Born in 1944

Jacqueline Bisset is one of those actors who have steadily delivered since the start of their career in the industry. So with over 100 titles in her filmography, she’s got more than enough to justify her place as an internationally renowned star. Her journey began in 1966 when she made her official debut in “Cul-de-sac.”

Within two years, she had wracked up five more titles across different genres. But her breakthrough came in 1968 when she was cast to play ‘Steve McQueen’s’ girlfriend in “Bullitt.” From that point, it appears she’s never run out of well-written scripts. Bisset played the iconic ‘Rose’ in the 2022 drama “Loren & Rose.

Jeremy Irons– Reversal of Fortune – Born in 1948

When asked what makes good theater, Jeremy Irons replied that the key to a good production is the conversation that occurs between the performance onstage and the members of the audience. It could very well be his ability to make the audience a part of the conversation that has earned him a prominent place in the film industry.

From stage productions to television and blockbuster films, Irons has never shied away from stretching the boundaries of his talents. So after more than five decades, he’s got a Triple Crown of Acting and many more accolades to show that he knows his onions.

Jim Broadbent –Iris – Born in 1949

Jim Broadbent’s early stage work was riddled with humor and satire. So no one could ever take “The Greatest Story Ever Told” or “Revolution!!” seriously. But by the early ’90s, when he made his debut in Mike Leigh’s “Life Is Sweet,” he could relate to a much wider audience and thus establish himself as a worthwhile actor.

Broadbent has devoted decades of his life to honing his craft. So his BAFTA TV Award, Golden Globe, and other accolades could be seen as a just reward. He’s also renowned for his roles in films like “Iris,” “The Iron Lady,” and the “Harry Potter” film series.

Graeme Garden –The Goodies – Born in 1943

Born in the city of Aberdeen in Scotland to a renowned orthopedic surgeon, Graeme Garden was given the best that life could offer. He was even set to follow in his father’s footsteps as he applied to study medicine at Emmanuel College in Cambridge. But the Cambridge University Footlights Dramatic Club called his name, and he never looked back.

Not many famous comics can claim to have a medical degree, but that’s just one of the many things that make Garden unique. He prefers to utilize his talents as a performer on stage, radio, and television. And fans of “I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue” can attest to this fact.

Billy Connolly –Mrs. Brown – Born in 1942

They say a Jack of all trades is a master of none. But Billy Connolly took that saying and put his unique spin on it. Now when he’s described as a comedian—though he retired in 2018—a writer, a musician, and a television presenter, he can point to his success on all sides.

His use of observational comedy is so remarkable that he is often referred to as the greatest stand-up comedian of all time. Connolly’s acting talents can also be appreciated in films like “Indecent Proposal,” “Mrs. Brown,” and “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.” Finally, in 2022, he was honored with the BAFTA Fellowship for lifetime achievement.

Robert Carlyle –The Full Monty – Born in 1961

Scottish actor Robert Carlyle understands dedication like no one else. He would go to such lengths, including changing his personality, lifestyle, and physical appearance in real life to better understand the mind and motivations of his character. And with such commitment, is it so shocking that all of his on-screen performances are so authentic?

Carlyle was motivated to pursue acting after reading Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.” After studying at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, he founded a theatre company with his friends before starting his career as a full-time actor. Finally, in 2022, he appeared in the drama film “North of Normal.”

Paul Hogan – Crocodile Dundee –Born in 1939

Paul Hogan co-wrote and starred in the action comedy film, “Crocodile Dundee” which was released in 1986. He played the part of the titular outback adventurer to such perfection that the film was followed up with two other feature films.

Hogan made his first ever television appearance on “New Faces” in 1971, where he dazzled the judges with his jokes and knife-throwing skills. That was the first time the public got an inkling of his comedic talent, and he became a regular on the show. He also produced his own sketch program, “The Paul Hogan Show,” before his breakout role on “Crocodile Dundee” earned him more fame.

Julie Andrews– The Sound of Music – Born in 1935

No one could ever deny the fact that Julie Andrews is one of the most remarkable actors of her time. Because to doubt that is to pretend she hasn’t received two Primetime Emmys, three Grammys, six Golden Globes, and many other awards. All for her seven-decade-long devotion to the movie industry.

And to think she’s been doing this since she was a child. Andrews made her debut on stage in unbilled performances alongside her parents. But once she made her way into radio and television, the world became her oyster. Now she’s known for her performance as ‘Maria von Trapp’ in “The Sound of Music.”

Samantha Fox – 7 Cases – Born in 1966

English pop singer and former glamour model Samantha Fox started out as a 16-year-old bare model for “Page 3” of The Sun. She joined Princess Diana and Margaret Thatcher as the most photographed women of the decade. In 1983, she tried her hand at music as part of a band but was not successful and opted to go back to modeling.

The “Touch Me” hitmaker went solo in 1986 and attained success with her debut song, which became a hit across Europe. Samantha has gone on to release six studio albums, and in 2018, she produced the single “Hot Boy.”

Julie Walters– Educating Rita – Born in 1950

Some may know Julie Walters from her role as ‘Rita’ in “Educating Rita.’ While others may remember her playing the doting yet strict ‘Molly Weasley’ in the “Harry Potter” films. Still, some may recognize her from “A Shory Stay in Switzerland,” which earned her an International Emmy Award for Best Actress.

It goes without saying that Walter’s garnered massive followers from across multiple genres, and her career is still on that upward trajectory. In 2020, she appeared in the fantasy film “The Secret Garden.” But acting is not all she’s known for. She also narrated the 2022 BBC documentary “The Queen: 70 Glorious Years.”

Joanna Lumley – Absolutely Fabulous – Born in 1946

Joanna Lumley was born in India in 1946, in the-then princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, to British parents who were both involved in the Crown rule in the subcontinent. Today, she is a successful actress and presenter, best known for her roles in “The New Avengers” and “Absolutely Fabulous.”

Joanna is also a passionate human rights activist and has campaigned for the Gurkha Justice Campaign and Survival International. For those who didn’t know, she was appointed Dame Commander in the Order of Chivalry of the British Empire (DBE). Even at this age, she is full of vim and vigor, and her glamor hasn’t waned a bit.

Miranda Richardson– The Crying Game – Born in 1958

The real world may hold some allure, but children are always entranced by the glamour of fantasy. It was no different for English actress Miranda Richardson who as a child, could think of no better place to spend her Saturday mornings than at the cinema. Once she was older, it was such a joy for her to go watch historical dramas and Westerns unaccompanied.

Now Richardson is just like those on-screen characters she so adored. She made her debut in the 1985 film “Dance with a Stranger.” But she’s also appeared in movies like “The Crying Game” and the 2022 series “Fate: The Winx Saga.”

Peter Dean –EastEnders – Born in 1939

There’s always a moment in everyone’s life when something happens to change their future path. For Peter Dean, that moment came one afternoon when he was rehearsing Shakespeare in the Petticoat Lane Market in London. Prunella Scales watched him and advised him to get some acting training. He must be so glad he followed her advice.

Dean got his breakthrough playing ‘Jack Lynn’ in “Law and Order.” Though he wasn’t a stand-up guy in that production, his acting was no less impressive. He’s also appeared in television shows like “Minder,” “The Chinese detective,” and even “CoronationStreet.” But Dean is best known for his role on “EastEnders.”

Petula Clark –Goodbye, Mr. Chips – Born in 1932

Petula Clark has achieved remarkable success as a singer, composer, and actress. And her illustrious career spans over seven decades. She was only nine years old when she made her debut on a radio broadcast alongside her father. Soon enough, the producer asked for a performance to soothe the listener’s nerves, and that was her chance.

Over a decade later, Clark’s fame stretched across Europe. Before long, she was making her name known in the rest of the international market. She’s released songs in French, Spanish, German, and Italian. And though she took her last film role in the ’80s, Clark continues to make regular television appearances.

Rowan Atkinson –Mr. Bean – Born in 1955

Rowan Atkinson and the original Tom and Jerry characters have a lot in common. They enjoy chaos, can be intensely competitive, and are adept at scheming. But the one trait that really ties the trio together is that they grew a massive cult following, even without stringing one or two words together.

Rowan Atkinson’s “Mr. Bean” character grew so popular that many even have a hard time remembering his actual name. Still, he’s also gained recognition for his role in films like “Johnny English,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” and “Keeping Mum.” He also starred in the 2022 comedy series “Man vs. Bee.”

 Sarah Lancashire –Last Tango in Halifax – Born in 1964

Sarah Lancashire gets double credit for being a famous actress and a former teacher. After graduating from Guildhall School of Music and Drama, she went on to teach classes at Salford University in Great Manchester. She’s also admitted that her interest in acting was never motivated by a desire for fame and status.

Whether she wanted it or not, her undeniable talent has earned her both. So she is now celebrated for performances in drama series like “Last Tango in Halifax,” “Happy Valley,” and “Julia.” Of course, anyone keeping up with her would be better placed to confirm her true-to-life portrayals in the last two in 2022.

Cliff Richard – Move It – Born in 1940

Sir Cliff Richard may not be rolling out chart-topping singles anymore, but the British pop icon, who has got an Indian connection, still holds the record of having had a number-one single in the UK in five consecutive decades.

250 million of his records have been sold to date. No wonder he is the third highest-selling singles artist in the UK, behind none other than The Beatles and the legendary Elvis Presley. Can you imagine that his Christmas calendar still outsells those featuring stars much younger than him? That’s Sir Cliff for you! The Peter Pan of British pop is still very much alive and kicking.