Peter Vaughan

Career and range

Vaughan trained and worked in repertory theatre before establishing himself as a dependable character performer in British drama. Over decades he moved fluidly between theatre companies, television serials and feature films, developing a reputation for economy of expression and strong presence even in small roles. Critics and colleagues often described him as the archetypal character actor: versatile, reliable and memorable.

Selected roles

• Charles Johnson in the sitcom Citizen Smith — a prominent television role that brought broad recognition in the 1970s.
• Maester Aemon in Game of Thrones — an elder statesman role that introduced him to international viewers.
• Numerous supporting parts across film and TV in dramas and comedies, reflecting a long and varied body of work.

Personal life

Vaughan was born in Wem, Wem, in the county of Shropshire, England. He married the actress Billie Whitelaw in 1952; the couple later separated and the marriage ended in divorce in 1966. He later married Lillias Walker, who remained his partner until his death.

Death and legacy

Peter Vaughan died on 6 December 2016 at his home in Mannings Heath, Sussex. The reported cause of death was complications related to epilepsy. He is remembered as a consummate supporting actor whose subtle performances enriched numerous productions and who enjoyed renewed attention from younger audiences through recent high-profile television work.