Actor. He started his working life in his mother's butcher shop, where he learned to play the Ukelele in his spare time. His comedic talent was discovered when he entered the army as a cook in WWII. He was part of the Blue Pencils, the first concert party recruited from the armed forces to entertain the troops during the war. Later, he featured in the Stars in Battledress concert party and also the radio show Ack Ack Beer Beer, the first of over 800 radio broadcasts featuring variety and comedy programs. After the war, he continued his career as a stand up comedian, topping the bill at the Royal Variety Performance before the (Queen Mother) in 1955. He also appeared with Frankie Laine, Lena Horne, Billy Daniels and Dorothy Lamour. On TV, Bill has appeared in Family At War, Fallen Hero, The Mating Season, Cousin Phyllis and Second Chance. The role of Percy Sugden was created specifically for him,as the writers were aware of Bill's history of comedy roles, and wrote the part around him. He was partnered with Carry On star (Sid James) on stage, but that came to a halt due to Sid's sudden death. Working on "Coronation Street", Bill was able to renew his friendships with old pal (Jill Summers). He died on September 9, 2000, after suffering for several years with Parkinsons' Disease.
Actor. He started his working life in his mother's butcher shop, where he learned to play the Ukelele in his spare time. His comedic talent was discovered when he entered the army as a cook in WWII. He was part of the Blue Pencils, the first concert party recruited from the armed forces to entertain the troops during the war. Later, he featured in the Stars in Battledress concert party and also the radio show Ack Ack Beer Beer, the first of over 800 radio broadcasts featuring variety and comedy programs. After the war, he continued his career as a stand up comedian, topping the bill at the Royal Variety Performance before the (Queen Mother) in 1955. He also appeared with Frankie Laine, Lena Horne, Billy Daniels and Dorothy Lamour. On TV, Bill has appeared in Family At War, Fallen Hero, The Mating Season, Cousin Phyllis and Second Chance. The role of Percy Sugden was created specifically for him,as the writers were aware of Bill's history of comedy roles, and wrote the part around him. He was partnered with Carry On star (Sid James) on stage, but that came to a halt due to Sid's sudden death. Working on "Coronation Street", Bill was able to renew his friendships with old pal (Jill Summers). He died on September 9, 2000, after suffering for several years with Parkinsons' Disease.
Bio by: Jeff J
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