As a young boy growing up in Glasgow during the 1940s, Stanley's life was deeply influenced by his fascination with the world of cinema. He would often spend as much time as possible at the Grosvenor Cinema, going so far as to skip school on occasion. This passion for the silver screen was further fueled by his parents' contrasting career aspirations for him.
His father, a branch manager for Commercial Union, had envisioned a future for Stanley in the medical profession, hoping that he would one day become a doctor. However, Stanley's mother, who had always harbored a secret desire to become an actress, was delighted when the family came to regard acting as a respectable profession. As a result, she began taking Stanley to various halls where he would regale audiences with renditions of Harry Lauder and Mae West.
Despite his early talent and passion for the performing arts, Stanley's schooling eventually came to a halt, much to the disappointment of his father. However, his father lived long enough to see Stanley's potential and was confident that he would go on to achieve great things.
Years later, Stanley would move to London with his wife, Moira, and establish himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Known for his perfectionism, Stanley would go on to build a reputation as a talented and dedicated individual who was unafraid to take the road less traveled.
