Roger Brierley, a distinguished English actor, entered this world on June 2, 1935, marking the beginning of a remarkable career that would span an impressive forty-year period. Throughout his illustrious career, he had the privilege of appearing in a multitude of television productions, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as a thespian.
Some of his most notable roles included appearances in the iconic science fiction series Doctor Who, the biographical drama Jinnah, the classic comedy series Jeeves and Wooster, the popular sketch comedy show Ripping Yarns, the beloved sitcom Rising Damp, the popular sitcom Only Fools and Horses, and the critically acclaimed television series The Alan Clark Diaries.
He was renowned for his refined and meticulously honed acting abilities, frequently portraying individuals of gravitas and respectability, including judges, solicitors, and medical professionals, whose dignified countenances and authoritative demeanor he brought to life with remarkable precision.
Despite his polished and professional on-screen presence, he was, in reality, a man of great intensity and fervor, whose inner world was marked by a deep-seated passion and an insatiable curiosity. This dichotomy between his public persona and private nature was often at odds, resulting in a complex and multifaceted individual whose character was punctuated by moments of petulance and mischief, revealing a more playful and whimsical side to his personality.
From a tender age, Brierley's life was indelibly marked by his profound passion for the world of theatre, a fascination that was nurtured and encouraged by his devoted parents. Between the years 1943 and 1953, he had the privilege of being a pupil at the esteemed Cheadle Hulme school, where he unfortunately had to contend with the unfortunate experience of being bullied. However, despite this challenge, he was able to cultivate a deep appreciation for the works of the great William Shakespeare, and the iconic roles that his plays have to offer.
Following his formative years in education, Brierley went on to pursue a course of study in the field of accountancy, and it was not long before he successfully qualified as a chartered accountant in the year 1959.
As he embarked on his journey, he made the conscious decision to diverge from the conventional path, opting to reject the Pay Corps and military intelligence in favor of pursuing a career in the education corps. It was within this context that he discovered the army's unexpected embracement of diversity, a revelation that would significantly shape his future endeavors.
Subsequently, he took the bold step of joining the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, a decision that would ultimately lead him to the esteemed Hornchurch Rep. It was during his time at Hornchurch Rep that he had the privilege of working alongside the renowned Peter Brook's RSC ensemble, an experience that would undoubtedly have a profound impact on his artistic development and growth.
Brierley's television career experienced a meteoric ascent, and he soon found himself making appearances in a wide range of popular shows, including the iconic British sitcom "The Likely Lads", the beloved science fiction series "Doctor Who", and the thrilling adventure "The Mysterious Planet".
This individual was an ardent admirer of Manchester United Football Club, exhibiting a profound enthusiasm for the team that transcended the boundaries of mere fandom. His dedication to the club was so unwavering that he played a pivotal role in the establishment of Shareholders United, a collective endeavor aimed at thwarting Rupert Murdoch's ambitious 1998 bid to acquire the team.
Furthermore, his philanthropic endeavors were not limited to the realm of football. He was also a joint treasurer of TACT, The Actors' Charitable Trust, a testament to his commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those in need.
Despite his numerous accomplishments and passions, it is clear that his love for Manchester United remained a defining aspect of his personality, a reflection of the profound impact that the team had on his life.
Noted British actor, Brierley, had the privilege of collaborating with the illustrious Victoria Wood on multiple occasions, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as a performer. His notable collaborations with Wood include the critically acclaimed television series "Wood and Walters", the popular sketch comedy show "Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV", and the iconic sitcom "Victoria Wood". Additionally, Brierley's impressive résumé boasts a diverse array of roles in esteemed productions such as the long-running medical drama "Casualty", the crime thriller series "The Ruth Rendell Mysteries", and the nostalgic comedy-drama "Shine on Harvey Moon".
Brierley's private existence was characterized by his profound appreciation for the theatrical arts, as well as his ardent devotion to Manchester United Football Club.
It was in the year 2001 that he encountered his long-term companion, Joan, with whom he subsequently decided to establish a shared domestic environment.
