Malcolm Hebden is a highly accomplished and celebrated English television and stage actor, whose remarkable career has been marked by a plethora of memorable performances, with his most iconic and enduring role being that of Norris Cole in the esteemed and long-running ITV soap opera Coronation Street.
Born in the charming town of Chester, Hebden's early life took an unexpected turn just three weeks into his existence, as his family made the decision to relocate to the picturesque town of Burnley, nestled in the heart of Lancashire.
As a young individual, Hebden attended West Gate High School, where he developed a keen interest in the world of drama. This passion led him to pursue a career as a window dresser in Burnley, a profession that allowed him to combine his creative flair with his attention to detail.
However, it wasn't long before Hebden's true calling became apparent. He was drawn to the world of amateur dramatics, where he could unleash his inner thespian and collaborate with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for the performing arts.
Hebden's journey as an amateur actor took him to various groups, including The Highcliffe Players, where he had the pleasure of working alongside fellow actor Richard Moore. This experience not only honed his skills as a performer but also provided him with a sense of camaraderie and belonging within the theatrical community.
Through his experiences as an amateur actor, Hebden developed a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling, as well as the importance of teamwork and collaboration. These valuable lessons would serve him well as he continued to explore the world of drama, ultimately leading him to become the accomplished individual he is today.
At the tender age of twenty-eight, Hebden embarked on a journey to pursue his long-held passion for acting, a dream that had been simmering within him for quite some time. This pivotal moment marked the commencement of a highly successful and illustrious career in the world of theatre, one that would ultimately be shaped by his attendance at the renowned Rose Bruford Drama School in the bustling city of London.
Malcolm Hebden, a talented British actor, made his debut on the popular television program Coronation Street in the year 1974, taking on the captivating role of Carlos, the Spanish beau of the charming Mavis Riley. This initial appearance marked the beginning of a lasting impression on the show, as Hebden would later reprise his role in 1994, this time assuming the character of Norris Cole. Following an initial departure from the series in 1997, Hebden returned to the world of Weatherfield in December 1999, commencing his ongoing and enduring tenure as Norris Cole.
Notably, beyond his notable contributions to the esteemed British soap opera Coronation Street, Hebden had the opportunity to showcase his talents in a cinematic endeavour, specifically in the 1999 feature film Lost for Words, where he portrayed a shopkeeper alongside esteemed actors Thora Hird and Pete Postlethwaite.
Corporal Kenneth Hebden, a talented actor, shared a remarkable on-screen partnership with the esteemed Barbara Knox, who portrayed Rita Sullivan, earning them the prestigious 'Best Onscreen Partnership' accolade at the British Soap Awards in May 2006.
Notably, Hebden's impressive acting career has also been marked by a memorable cameo appearance in the renowned British sitcom, "Last of the Summer Wine", a long-running and iconic television program that has captivated audiences with its unique blend of humor and charm.
In the early months of the year 2008, a pivotal moment occurred in the creative trajectory of the long-running British soap opera Coronation Street, as a prominent cast member, Malcolm Hebden, proposed a visionary idea to the show's producers. Hebden, renowned for his iconic portrayal of the lovable but irascible Norris Cole, suggested that the esteemed British actor Andrew Sachs would be an inspired choice to play the role of Norris's brother.
