John Stride(1936-2018)

Studied at Alleyn's school in London obtaining 'A' levels in English, French, and German.. Chose acting as a profession as he found it more enjoyable and easier than studying. Won a scholarship to R.A,D.A although his parents disapproved. Spent 2 years doing National Service in the army becoming a 2nd lieutenant in the Royal Artillery by the time he was demobbed. He then joined the Liverpool Repertory appearing in 'The Diary of Anne Frank', 'Look Back in Anger' got a 3 year contract with H.M.Tennant touring England in various plays then joined the Old Vic taking the lead in 'Romeo and Juliet' directed by Franco Zeffirelli which was a big success. He then went to Hollywood where he was offered a number of 7 year contracts which he thought would have been too restrictive and not lead anywhere. He then went on Broadway signing again with Zeffirelli for 'Lady of the Camellias' which only ran for 10 days. He returned to England to star in 'The Ides of March' with John Gielgud which was seen by Laurence Olivier who asked him to join the National Theatre Company for 4 years. After that he moved to television making the pilot and 45 episodes of 'The Main Chance which shot him to fame.