Births on January 6

John Clive, English author and actor (d. 2012)

John Clive (6 January 1933 – 14 October 2012) was a highly versatile English talent, widely celebrated for his significant contributions across both the literary and entertainment worlds. Renowned as an accomplished author of best-selling historical and social fiction, he simultaneously carved out a distinguished career as a character actor in British film, television, and on the esteemed West End stage, leaving an indelible mark on each domain.

A Distinguished Authorial Career

Beyond his extensive acting résumé, John Clive achieved international acclaim as a prolific author, particularly known for his meticulously researched and engaging historical and social fiction. His novels captivated a global audience, earning him a reputation as a master storyteller capable of weaving complex narratives with historical accuracy.

Noteworthy Literary Works:

• KG200 (1977): Co-authored with acclaimed American journalist and historian Thomas B. Allen, this gripping espionage thriller quickly became a worldwide bestseller. The novel delves into the clandestine operations of the real-life German Luftwaffe unit, Kampfgeschwader 200 (KG 200), during World War II. This secretive unit was notorious for its covert missions, including reconnaissance, sabotage, and the testing of captured enemy aircraft, adding significant factual depth to Clive’s narrative. The book's success underscored his ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling.
• Barossa (1978): This powerful historical novel transports readers to the tumultuous era of the Napoleonic Wars. It vividly portrays the Battle of Barrosa, a pivotal engagement fought in 1811 during the Peninsular War in Spain. Clive's meticulous attention to historical detail and his capacity for weaving intricate human dramas into grand historical backdrops were hallmarks of this work.

His literary output showcased a deep understanding of historical contexts, allowing him to craft narratives that were both informative and profoundly engaging, solidifying his standing as a prominent voice in historical fiction.

A Versatile Acting Career: From Stage to Screen

John Clive's acting journey commenced at the formative age of fourteen, immersing himself in the rigorous world of repertory theatre. This crucial training ground, where actors performed a rotating repertoire of plays, honed his versatility and stage presence, preparing him for a diverse career that spanned decades and genres.

Commanding the West End Stage:

Clive became a familiar and respected figure on London's prestigious West End stage, starring in numerous acclaimed productions. His ability to embody a wide range of characters made him a sought-after talent in the theatrical world.

• Absurd Person Singular: A notable role in Alan Ayckbourn's renowned dark comedy, showcasing his adeptness with intricate character dynamics and comedic timing.
• The Wizard of Oz: A beloved production where he undoubtedly contributed to the magic and enchantment of this classic tale, often taking on a memorable character role.
• Under Milk Wood: Featuring in Dylan Thomas's iconic radio drama, often adapted for stage, demonstrating his capacity for evocative, poetic performance.
• The Bandwagon at the Mermaid Theatre: Appearing at the pioneering Mermaid Theatre, which was instrumental in shaping London's theatrical landscape and promoting new works.
• Other significant stage appearances included The Winslow Boy, a classic Rattigan drama; Young Woodley; and the long-running comedy Life with Father, further cementing his reputation as a formidable stage actor.

Memorable Film and Television Appearances:

As a distinctive character actor, John Clive brought his unique presence to both comedic and dramatic roles across a wide array of British and international films and television series. His performances often left a lasting impression, even in brief appearances, due to his inherent talent and memorable delivery.

• Yellow Submarine (1968): Clive lent his voice to the iconic animated feature, notably voicing John Lennon, a pivotal role in this surreal and psychedelic cinematic milestone that defined a generation.
• The Italian Job (1969): He appeared as a Prison Officer in this classic British crime caper, contributing to one of the most celebrated and enduring films of its era with his distinctive portrayal.
• A Clockwork Orange (1971): In Stanley Kubrick's groundbreaking and controversial dystopian film, Clive played a Stage Actor, adding to the unsettling atmosphere of this cinematic masterpiece.
• The Pink Panther Strikes Again (1976): He featured as Chuck in this popular installment of the Inspector Clouseau comedy series, showcasing his flair for comedic timing alongside Peter Sellers.
• The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles (1993): In this acclaimed television series, he took on the role of Inspector Le Duc in the episode "Paris, October 1916," demonstrating his versatility in historical adventure narratives.

The Carry On Legacy:

John Clive was also a valued member of the esteemed "Carry On Team," contributing to two much-loved films from the iconic British comedy series known for its slapstick humour and innuendo:

• Carry On Abroad (1972):
• Carry On Dick (1974):

His involvement in these films further solidified his place in British comedy history, a testament to his adaptability and widespread appeal across various acting genres.

Recognition within the Entertainment Industry

In 1988, John Clive received a significant honour within the entertainment community when he was initiated into the Grand Order of Water Rats. This highly prestigious and exclusive charitable fraternity, established in 1889 by leading figures in British show business, acknowledges exceptional talent and philanthropic contributions within the performing arts. Membership is a profound mark of respect and a testament to an individual's enduring impact and esteemed standing among their peers, signifying a lifetime of dedication and success.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Clive

What was John Clive primarily known for?

John Clive was renowned for his dual career as both an internationally best-selling author of historical fiction (including KG200 and Barossa) and a versatile English actor with significant roles in films like Yellow Submarine (voicing John Lennon), The Italian Job, A Clockwork Orange, and appearances on the West End stage and in the iconic Carry On film series.

What type of books did John Clive write?

He was celebrated for his historical and social fiction, particularly thrillers and historical dramas that often incorporated meticulously researched factual backdrops. His notable works include the World War II espionage novel KG200, co-authored with Thomas B. Allen, and the Napoleonic War-era story Barossa.

Did John Clive have a role in The Beatles' film Yellow Submarine?

Yes, John Clive provided the voice for the animated character of John Lennon in the iconic 1968 film Yellow Submarine, which is considered a significant contribution to animated cinema.

What is the Grand Order of Water Rats?

The Grand Order of Water Rats is a highly respected and exclusive charitable organisation for British show business professionals. Being initiated into the Order, as John Clive was in 1988, signifies a significant honour, recognizing an individual's outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry and their philanthropic efforts towards various causes within the performing arts community.