Ray Brooks, the beloved British actor and voice artist known primarily for his roles in iconic television series, has passed away at the age of 86. His family announced that Brooks died on Saturday following a brief illness, making the news public just hours ago. Brooks’s career spanned over five decades, during which he made memorable contributions to both television and film, along with the realm of theatre, leaving a lasting impact on British entertainment.
Born and raised in Brighton, Brooks developed a passion for acting early in life. He gained widespread recognition in the 1970s as the narrator of the children’s animated show “Mr Benn,” wherein his voice became synonymous with the title character’s magical adventures. His warm, engaging delivery made the show a staple of children’s programming, and many fans grew to associate him with the iconic catchphrase “as if by magic!” Despite the show consisting of just 13 episodes, it rang through children’s imaginations and continued to be re-aired annually for more than two decades.
Brooks’s television career also included notable performances in the ground-breaking 1966 BBC drama “Cathy Come Home,” directed by Ken Loach. This film, which tackled themes of homelessness and social issues, is recognized as a significant turning point in British broadcasting, marking Brooks’s early breakthrough. He portrayed Reg, a character whose struggles captured the hearts of audiences and showcased Brooks’s remarkable ability to handle serious dramatic material.
During the 1980s, Brooks transitioned into more comedic roles, becoming a household name in shows like “Big Deal,” where he played the charming rogue Robbie Box, a gambler navigating life and relationships. His comedic timing and relatable portrayals resonated with viewers during a time when characters such as Del Boy Trotter from “Only Fools and Horses” were at the forefront of British television. Likewise, he also starred in “Running Wild,” where he played a man grappling with his midlife crises in a humorous context, further solidifying his status in the industry.
One of the distinctive features of Brooks’s career was his ability to traverse various genres, appearing on both sides of the soap opera divide. He made appearances in both “Coronation Street” and “EastEnders,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. In “Coronation Street,” he played the role of Norman Philips in the 1960s, before stepping into the darker character of Joe Macer in “EastEnders,” who notably committed spousal murder, further displaying his range as a performer.
In addition to his extensive television work, Brooks lent his voice to a multitude of projects, including narrating classic productions such as “The Pickwick Papers” and collaborating on the “Jackanory” series, capturing the imaginations of young audiences with his storytelling. His voice also featured in numerous commercials for high-profile brands, making him a familiar auditory presence.
Despite his incredible achievements in acting, Brooks’s real life was quite different from the characters he portrayed. His sons, Will and Tom, shared that their father preferred living a more private life away from the limelight. They revealed that his family, Fulham Football Club, and Brighton were his true passions. Known for his staunch support of Fulham during their proposed merger with QPR, Brooks was seen wearing a “Save Fulham” badge during interviews to advocate for the football club he revered.
In recent years, Brooks faced the challenges of dementia. He passed peacefully with family by his side, highlighting the family’s close-knit support during difficult times. His sons expressed their admiration and love, emphasizing his genuine nature and love for family over fame.
Ray Brooks leaves behind a rich legacy, not only as a dynamic talent of British entertainment but as a cherished father and friend. His contributions to the arts will resonate for generations to come.
