Larry Dann, a highly acclaimed and accomplished British film and television actor, was born on May 4, 1941, in the bustling city of London, England, a place that would later serve as the backdrop for many of his early performances. His entry into the world of acting was a chance encounter, with a knock at the door that would change the course of his life forever, as he was approached by a casting director seeking children to work in films. At the tender age of five, Larry made his film debut in the 1946 production of Adam and Evelyn, sharing the screen with esteemed actors Jean Simmons and Stewart Granger, and going on to work as an extra before dedicating himself to formal training at the Corona Stage Academy.
Dann's early foray into the world of acting commenced with a fleeting yet memorable cameo appearance in the 1959 film "Carry On Teacher", where he played a pivotal role as a schoolboy, alongside a stellar cast of actors. This was followed by a string of successful collaborations with the renowned Sir Norman Wisdom, with whom he shared the screen in the 1953 film "Trouble in Store" and the 1960 film "The Bulldog Breed".
As his career continued to flourish, Dann revisited the iconic "Carry On" series, starring in the 1975 film "Carry On Behind", the 1976 film "Carry On England", and the 1978 film "Carry On Emmannuelle". His impressive filmography also boasts a wide range of diverse roles in films such as "What a Crazy World" (1963),"All Neat in Black Stockings" (1968),"The Body Stealers" (1969),"Before Winter Comes" (1969),"Our Miss Fred" (1972),"Ghost Story" (1974),and "The Bunker" (1981).
Dann's illustrious career in television spanned nearly a decade, from 1984 to 1992, during which he embodied the role of Sergeant Alec Peters in a remarkable 227 episodes of the ITV police drama series, The Bill.
Years later, in 2020, Dann revisited his early experiences working on The Bill, sharing cherished memories in the book "Witness Statements: Making The Bill (Series 1-3)". This publication served as a testament to his dedication to his craft and the lasting impact his time on the show had on his life.
In 2022, Dann's passion for storytelling continued to unfold with the release of his second book, "Witness Statements: Making The Bill (1988)", a follow-up volume that delved into his recollections of his time as Sgt. Peters during the show's early half-hour episodes.
Dann's artistic endeavors extended far beyond the realm of screen appearances, as he chose to join the esteemed Theatre Workshop in 1962, allowing him to indulge in a plethora of stage productions skillfully directed by the illustrious Joan Littlewood.
In the year 2023, a significant literary event took place when renowned author Dann published his highly anticipated autobiography, titled "Oh, What A Lovely Memoir", in collaboration with the esteemed publishing house Devonfire Books. This remarkable publication served as a fascinating glimpse into the extraordinary life and illustrious career of the author, providing readers with a unique opportunity to delve into the personal and professional experiences that have shaped his remarkable journey.
