LeoGlossary: Frank Thornton (Actor)

Born: January 15, 1921 – Died: March 16, 2013

Frank Thornton, born on January 15, 1921, in Dulwich, London, England, was the third child of William Ernest Ball, a bank manager, and Rosina. His siblings included Marjorie, who passed away in 1980, and John. Thornton's middle name, "Thornton," came from his mother's maiden name. In his early years, he displayed musical talent by playing the cello in his school's orchestra and even served as a corporal in the Officer's Training Corps. However, his life took a turn when he left the Corps in 1937 to become a clerk with the Guardian Insurance Company in London.

But the world of acting beckoned, and inspired by a colleague who had embarked on an acting career, Frank Thornton enrolled in evening classes at the London School of Dramatic Art. During World War II, he joined the RAF and trained as a navigator, ultimately becoming a pilot officer. After the war, he continued his acting journey, making a mark in both theater and television. One of his notable roles was as Captain Peacock in the beloved TV series "Are You Being Served?" Frank married Beryl Evans in 1945, and they had a daughter named Jane in 1946. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting legacy. He passed away on March 16, 2013, in Barnes, London, leaving behind a rich and memorable career.

Early Life and Career

Frank Thornton's childhood and upbringing are relatively uncharted, but we do know that he attended the London School of Dramatic Art to hone his acting skills. His journey into the world of entertainment began when he left his job as a clerk with the Guardian Insurance Company in 1937 to follow the path of acting.

His first professional roles started during World War II when he acted in the local repertory company while stationed in Nova Scotia with the RAF entertainment unit, alongside notable figures like Peter Sellers, Dick Emery, and Tony Hancock.

However, it was his role as Captain Peacock in the iconic TV series "Are You Being Served?" that catapulted him into stardom. The show, which ran from 1972 to 1985, became a classic and cemented his status as a beloved actor in British television.

Throughout his career, Frank Thornton received acclaim for his acting prowess. In his personal life, he was married to Beryl Evans from 1945 until his death in 2013, and they had a daughter named Jane in 1946.

Frank Thornton's impact on the entertainment industry, especially in British television, is undeniable. His portrayal of Captain Peacock made him an enduring figure in the hearts of audiences. Though he may not be categorized as a Hollywood icon, he stands as a respected and beloved figure in British showbiz, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.

Filmography

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