Gerard Parkes

Gerard "Gerry" Parkes was a distinguished Irish-born Canadian actor, born in Dublin and relocating to Toronto in 1956. He is perhaps most recognized for his role as "Doc" in the beloved Canadian TV series Fraggle Rock, as well as for his memorable portrayal of a bartender in the cult classic films The Boondock Saints and its sequel, The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day. Parkes' extensive acting career encompassed various mediums including film, television, radio, and theater.

His journey in the entertainment industry began with CBC radio in 1959, leading to television appearances in notable series such as The Forest Rangers, The Littlest Hobo, and Cagney and Lacey. In 1968, he garnered acclaim by winning the inaugural Canadian film award, known at the time as the Etrog (now the Gemini), for his role as Uncle Matthew in the film Isabel. His accolades continued with the Andrew Allan Award for Best Radio Actor in 1983 and the Dora Mavor Moore Award for Outstanding Performance in a Featured Role in 1999 for his work in Kilt.

Parkes also made a mark in film with his role as Jonathan Swift in HBO's Handel's Last Chance and guest-starred as Wally the Wanderer in PBS's Noddy in 1998. Notably, he featured in The Adjuster (1991), which won the Special Silver St. George at the 17th Moscow International Film Festival and was ranked among the Top 10 Canadian Films of All Time by the Toronto International Film Festival in 1993.