Gerald Campion

Gerald Theron Campion (April 23, 1921 – July 9, 2002) was a distinguished English actor, most notably recognized for his portrayal of Billy Bunter in the 1950s television series "Billy Bunter of Greyfriars School," based on the works of Frank Richards (Charles Hamilton).

Born in Bloomsbury, London, to playwright Cyril Theron Campion and Blanche Louise Tunstall, a cousin of Charlie Chaplin, Gerald was an only child. At the young age of 15, he secured a spot at the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and made his broadcasting debut in 1937 with the BBC Home Service radio play "Inspiration to a Poet."

Campion's defining role as Bunter came when he was in his 40s, showcasing his talent in a character much younger than himself. He later revisited this iconic role as Lord Bunter of Hove in the BBC Radio 7 series "Whatever Happened to ...?", which humorously speculated on the fate of Bunter's teacher, Horace Henry Samuel Quelch.

In addition to his acting career, Campion made a brief appearance in the unfinished "Shada," a "Doctor Who" episode, in 1979. After stepping away from acting, he became a successful entrepreneur, running several clubs and restaurants in London’s Soho, including the well-known Gerry's, which became a popular haunt for the theatrical community.

Gerald was married twice, first to Jean M Sherman in 1947, with whom he had three children, and later to Susan Marks in 1973. After spending many years in Wittersham, Kent, he and his wife relocated to France in 1991, where he passed away in 2002 at the age of 81 in Agen, Aquitaine.