Peter Bowles, a renowned actor, achieved widespread popularity on television, particularly with his portrayal of Richard De Vere, the charismatic and cunning tycoon in the hit series To the Manor Born (1979). Born in London, Bowles came from a humble working-class background, the son of a valet and a nanny, who worked hard to send him to the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) to study drama.
Despite being rejected for many roles due to his height and complexion, Bowles persisted and eventually made his theatrical debut at the Nottingham Playhouse Theatre in 1953. He then joined the Old Vic company, playing small parts in Shakespearean plays.
Throughout his career, Bowles played a wide range of characters, from charming rogues and rakish lotharios to flamboyant and snobbish aristocrats. He starred in numerous TV series, including Napoleon and Love (1974),Only When I Laugh (1979),The Bounder (1982),The Irish R.M. (1983),Lytton's Diary (1985),and Perfect Scoundrels (1990).
Bowles also had a successful stage career, headlining in numerous prestigious plays, including The Browning Version, Sleuth, Wait Until Dark, and Separate Tables. He was married to actress Susan Bennett for over 60 years and had three children.
