Peter Sallis, English actor (d. 2017)

Peter John Sallis (1 February 1921 – 2 June 2017) was a distinguished British actor whose prolific career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on both British television and global animation. He became a household name primarily through two iconic roles: the voice of an inventive animated character and a remarkably enduring live-action role in a beloved sitcom.

Iconic Voice of Wallace in Wallace & Gromit

Sallis is globally celebrated as the distinctive, avuncular voice of Wallace, the cheese-loving, eccentric inventor from Aardman Animations' critically acclaimed stop-motion Wallace and Gromit films. Created by the renowned animator Nick Park, these beloved shorts and features captivated audiences worldwide. Sallis’s unique vocal performance imbued Wallace with a charming blend of enthusiastic ingenuity and endearing naivety, making the character instantly recognizable and deeply cherished. The franchise, featuring Sallis's voice, garnered multiple prestigious accolades, including Academy Awards for Best Animated Short Film (for "The Wrong Trousers" in 1993 and "A Close Shave" in 1995) and Best Animated Feature (for "Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit" in 2005). His voice became synonymous with the whimsical, often chaotic, adventures of the man and his silent, intelligent canine companion.

Norman "Cleggy" Clegg in Last of the Summer Wine

Concurrently with his animation success, Peter Sallis captivated British audiences for an extraordinary 37 years as Norman "Cleggy" Clegg in the BBC's much-loved comedy series, Last of the Summer Wine. Premiering in 1973 and concluding in 2010, this series holds the distinction of being the world's longest-running comedy programme. A testament to his dedication and consistency, Sallis was the sole actor to appear in every single one of its 295 episodes, from its inception to its final curtain call. Clegg, a gentle and thoughtful widower, was known for his contemplative, often philosophical outlook and dry, understated wit, forming a central part of the trio of elderly Yorkshiremen whose gentle escapades through the picturesque Pennine hills charmed millions. Sallis's consistent portrayal anchored the series throughout its remarkable run. Adding further depth to his legacy within this universe, he also portrayed Norman Clegg's father in the prequel series, First of the Summer Wine, which aired from 1988 to 1990, providing insight into the characters' younger years.

Versatility: From London to Northern Characters

An interesting aspect of Sallis's career was his remarkable ability to embody characters with distinct regional identities, despite his own background. Born and raised in London, Sallis masterfully adopted the vocal nuances required for both Wallace and Clegg, who were strongly associated with Northern English characteristics and accents. This demonstrated his versatility and precision as a character actor and voice artist, seamlessly transitioning between his own London origins and the roles he portrayed.

Diverse Television and Film Credits

Beyond his two most famous roles, Peter Sallis enjoyed a rich and varied career across television and film, showcasing his extensive range. His notable television appearances included:

• Danger Man (also known as Secret Agent in the US): A classic 1960s British spy thriller.
• The Avengers: The iconic spy-fi cult series where he appeared in various episodes.
• Doctor Who: He featured in the seminal 1967 story "The Ice Warriors," a significant serial introducing the reptilian Ice Warrior aliens.
• The Persuaders!: A sophisticated adventure series starring Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Roger Moore.
• The Ghosts of Motley Hall: A popular children's supernatural drama series.

Sallis also ventured into film, making a notable mark in two productions from Hammer Films, the British studio renowned for its distinctive Gothic horror style. His film credits include:

• The Curse of the Werewolf (1961): A classic creature feature from the golden age of horror films.
• Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970): Part of Hammer's celebrated vampire series starring Christopher Lee as Dracula.

These diverse roles underscore Sallis's adaptability and enduring presence in British entertainment, solidifying his status as a cherished and respected performer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peter Sallis

What was Peter Sallis most famous for?

Peter Sallis was most famous for two iconic roles: providing the distinctive voice of Wallace in the Academy Award-winning Wallace and Gromit animated films, and portraying Norman "Cleggy" Clegg in every single episode of the record-breaking BBC comedy series Last of the Summer Wine.

How long did Peter Sallis star in Last of the Summer Wine?

Peter Sallis had an unparalleled run in Last of the Summer Wine, appearing from its very first episode in 1973 until its conclusion in 2010, a remarkable tenure of 37 years and 295 episodes.

Did Peter Sallis only do voice acting?

No, while his voice work as Wallace is globally recognized, Peter Sallis had an extensive career as a live-action actor in British television and film, appearing in numerous dramas, comedies, and horror films throughout his long career.

What awards did the Wallace and Gromit films win with Peter Sallis as Wallace?

The Wallace and Gromit films, featuring Peter Sallis as Wallace, collectively earned multiple Academy Awards. Specifically, "The Wrong Trousers" and "A Close Shave" both won for Best Animated Short Film, and "Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit" won for Best Animated Feature.