Geoffrey Chater, a distinguished and accomplished character actor, was highly regarded for his remarkable talent in bringing to life complex figures of prominence and power, effortlessly capturing the essence of those who wielded influence and authority. Born in the charming borough of Barnet, nestled in the heart of north London, Chater's artistic inclinations were largely influenced by his parents, with his father being a composer and his mother, the talented Gwendoline Gwynne, an actress of great renown.
It was during his formative years, at the tender age of eight, that Chater first beheld his mother take to the stage, performing in a captivating play at the historic Scala Theatre. This poignant moment, steeped in the magic of live theatre, served as a pivotal catalyst, igniting within him a deep-seated passion for the performing arts and inspiring him to embark on a lifelong journey as an actor.
Notable individual, Chater, embarked upon a remarkable journey, enlisting in the army at the tender age of fifteen, in the year 1940. As he progressed through the ranks, he achieved the esteemed position of captain, where he had the privilege of serving in the esteemed territories of India and Burma.
Throughout his tenure in the military, Chater discovered a passion for creating morale-boosting revues, which not only showcased his creative talents but also played a significant role in lifting the spirits of his fellow soldiers.
Following the conclusion of the war, Chater embarked upon his professional career with Windsor rep, marking the inception of his theatrical journey. This significant milestone was swiftly followed by his West End debut in 1952, a momentous occasion that served as a catalyst for his future success. In 1954, Chater spent a season at the esteemed Old Vic, where he had the opportunity to showcase his remarkable talent in a variety of productions.
Notable thespian Chater persisted in his pursuit of theatrical excellence, accumulating a vast array of credits in various productions, including Michael Redgrave's meticulous revival of A Month in the Country, a captivating adaptation that transported audiences to a bygone era. His impressive repertoire also boasted Howard Brenton's thought-provoking political drama Magnificence, a powerful exploration of the human condition. Furthermore, Chater's extensive experience at the National Theatre included prominent roles in Harold Pinter's timeless comedy Blithe Spirit, a witty and sophisticated portrayal of love and relationships, as well as The Browning Version, a poignant and introspective drama that delved into the complexities of the human heart.
Noteworthy in addition to his extensive experience in the realm of theatre, Chater enjoyed a remarkably long and illustrious career in television, with a cumulative total of over five decades of programming to his name.
His impressive array of credits includes appearances in a diverse range of beloved television shows, such as the critically acclaimed period drama Mapp & Lucia, the classic British sitcom Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em, and the iconic legal comedy-drama Rumpole of the Bailey.
Noted British filmmaker Chater has amassed a diverse and impressive array of cinematic credits throughout his career, boasting a range of notable entries that include the critically acclaimed Gandhi, the sumptuously shot and atmospherically rendered Barry Lyndon, and the similarly acclaimed O Lucky Man!, a film that showcases the director's ability to balance humor and drama with great aplomb.
In addition to these more prominent and widely recognized works, Chater's filmography also includes a smattering of lesser-known and more unusual projects, such as the 1979 comedy film The Best Pair of Legs in the Business, which stars Reg Varney in a drag act-themed monstrosity that is sure to be a fascinating and perhaps bemusing watch for audiences familiar with the director's more serious and dramatic work.
Richard Chater, a talented actor of considerable repute, is perhaps most notably remembered for his poignant portrayal of Christmas Humphreys, the esteemed barrister who, in a grave miscarriage of justice, wrongly convicted Timothy Evans in the 1970 film "10 Rillington Place".
Geoffrey Michael Chater Robinson, a remarkable individual, breathed his last breath on October 16, 2021, marking a poignant milestone, his 100th year on this earth, a testament to his remarkable vitality and resilience.
