Roy Kinnear

Roy Mitchell Kinnear (January 8, 1934 – September 20, 1988) was an esteemed English character actor and comedian, noted for his versatile range in both film and television. He is most recognized for his roles such as Henry Salt in the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Algernon in Help! (1965), and Planchet in The Three Musketeers (1973). His reprisal of the role of Planchet in the 1974 and 1989 sequels was unfortunately cut short by a tragic accident during filming. He was also well-known on the small screen, appearing in acclaimed series such as The Dick Emery Show (1979–1981), Man About the House (1974–1975), and Cowboys (1980–1981).

Kinnear was born in Wigan, Lancashire, and was educated at the reputable Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). His acting career began in earnest in 1955 and gradually bloomed into a prominent presence on both screen and stage. Kinnear's breadth of roles spans from the Hammer horror film Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970) to voicing characters in children's television shows such as Bertha and SuperTed. His life was notably marked by personal tragedy, with his early death in 1988 following a horse-riding accident while filming. Despite this untimely loss, Kinnear's enduring legacy is captured in his diverse and memorable performances across numerous works.