Murray Westgate

Murray Westgate, like many young men of his generation, enlisted in the Canadian navy during World War II. He served as a wireless operator and was stationed in Halifax. Upon his return to civilian life in 1945, he learned of a new repertory company forming on the west coast and became a founding member of Vancouver's first professional theatre group, Everyman Theatre, established by Sydney Risk in 1946. This led to a touring company, where Westgate and fellow young actors showcased their talents across the region.

He later joined the CBC in Vancouver, quickly becoming a prominent voice in radio dramas that the CBC studios were renowned for. In 1949, Westgate relocated to Toronto, where he continued to lend his voice to numerous CBC network radio productions, including the long-running series originally known as Stage 44, directed by Andrew Allan, and the Ford Television Theatre, produced by Allan Savage.

In recognition of his talent, Westgate received an ACTRA Award in 1979 for his outstanding performance in the television film Tyler. He is perhaps best known to a specific generation as the face of Imperial Oil, serving as their spokesperson in commercials for 17 years, particularly during their sponsorship of Hockey Night In Canada on CBC. Westgate passed away at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, leaving behind a legacy in Canadian arts and media.