Richard Fraser

**Biography of Richard Fraser**

Richard Fraser, born Richard Mackie Simpson, experienced a transformative early life marked by change. Following his graduation from Sedbergh School, his mother, Margaret Kyd Mackie, divorced, leading to his name being simplified to Richard Mackie. He pursued higher education at Cambridge University before honing his acting skills at the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. After gaining experience on stage in London, Fraser emigrated to the United States, where he married Louise Christine Sheldon in 1938. The couple eventually relocated to Hollywood, but with another actor sharing his name, he adopted the stage name Richard Fraser. His talent caught the attention of 20th Century Fox, and he subsequently appeared in several notable films.

Fraser's most acclaimed role came as James Vane in the classic film *The Picture of Dorian Gray*, which solidified his status in the Hollywood scene. He stepped away from acting in 1949 and returned to Britain in 1961 with his second wife, actress Ann Gillis. Throughout the 1960s, he transitioned into a successful business role, notably contributing to the BBC's export sales, promoting shows like *Doctor Who* internationally.

Fraser's personal life involved two marriages; he had a daughter, Melinda, with his first wife, and a son, Gordon, with Gillis. After their divorce in 1970, he wed Edna Martin in 1971. Tragically, Richard Fraser passed away from cancer in January 1972, leaving behind a legacy in film and television.