The renowned Canadian actor, who spent a significant portion of his career residing in the United Kingdom, embarked on an unconventional journey before pursuing his passion for acting. Prior to entering the entertainment industry, he worked as a recreational therapist in a mental hospital in his native Canada, an experience that he believed provided him with a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions, thus granting him valuable insight that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
In 1949, he relocated to England, where he enrolled at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Following his studies, he began his career in radio and theatre, gradually making a name for himself in the industry. His breakthrough role came in 1957, when he appeared in the prison drama "The Last Mile," which caught the attention of ABC Television, a British company, and subsequently led to a seven-year contract being offered to him.