Charles Pemberton

**Biography of Charles Pemberton**

Charles Pemberton, a distinguished character actor, enjoyed a prolific career in television but achieved notable recognition for his one-man show, *WS Gilbert - A Disagreeable Man?*, which he performed across the UK and Europe. This two-hour production, crafted by Brian Jones, delved into the life of the influential 19th-century composer and theatrical figure, W.S. Gilbert.

Born on September 19, 1939, in Leyland, Lancashire, Pemberton honed his craft at the esteemed Rose Bruford Drama School, graduating with distinction in 1963. He began his professional journey with the Bristol Old Vic Theatre Company, spending two years there before taking on various roles in repertory theatre in Manchester, Harrogate, and Derby.

Pemberton made his television debut in 1964 as a detective sergeant in the soap opera *Crossroads*. He became known for portraying a range of authoritative figures, including policemen and military personnel, in popular series such as *Callan*, *The Professionals*, and *Minder*. His versatility allowed him to appear in iconic shows like *Doctor Who*—in both *The Tomb of the Cybermen* and *The War Games*—and *Coronation Street*, where he played Johnny Mann.

On stage, Pemberton performed alongside legends like Ingrid Bergman in Sir John Gielgud's revival of *The Constant Wife* and starred in J.B. Priestley's *When We Are Married*. He also showcased his comedic talent in commercials, notably for John Smith's Yorkshire Bitter.

An accomplished magician, he held the Inner Magic Circle Silver Star and was a respected member of the Catholic Stage Guild and the CAA. Pemberton's warm personality and charming demeanor made him a beloved figure in London’s theatre scene.

He passed away on May 13, 2007, after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that endears him to colleagues