Richard Davies

Biography

Richard Davies, born Dennis Wilfred Davies on January 25, 1926, in Dowlais, Glamorgan, became a celebrated Welsh actor known for his diverse range of characters and distinctive performances. He gained widespread recognition for his role as the beleaguered schoolmaster Mr. Price in the beloved LWT sitcom *Please Sir!* His ability to embody various accents enabled him to portray a multitude of roles, often tapping into Welsh stereotypes while also exploring other characters.

Davies's television career included a significant stint in *Coronation Street* as Idris Hopkins from 1974 to 1975, alongside notable appearances in science fiction series like *Robert's Robots* and *Out of the Unknown*. He delivered a memorable performance as Burton in the 1987 *Doctor Who* episode "Delta and the Bannermen." His television credits also featured roles in iconic series such as *Fawlty Towers*, *Yes Minister*, and *One Foot in the Grave*. In the early 1960s, he played Jim Sloan in the popular police drama *Z-Cars* and later reprised his role in the spin-off series *Softly, Softly*.

Davies's film career included parts in notable productions like *Zulu* (1964) and *Under Milk Wood* (1972), as well as the film adaptation of *Please Sir!* in 1971. He passed away on October 8, 2015, at the age of 89, after a struggle with Alzheimer's disease, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and beloved performer. He is survived by his wife, two children, and a son from a previous marriage.