A British actor who appeared in numerous television shows and films, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, playing a range of characters from villains to authority figures.
Simon Oates was an English actor best known for his roles on television, particularly in the science fiction series Doomwatch and the espionage series The Mask of Janus and its spinoff The Spies.
Arthur Charles Simon Oates was born on January 6, 1932, in Canning Town, east London. He trained as a heating engineer for his father's firm before becoming an actor.
During his Army National Service, Oates was in the Intelligence Corps. He began his acting career in the 1950s, working in theatrical rep and eventually becoming the leading man at York Theatre Royal.
Oates' breakthrough role came when he was cast as Dr. John Ridge in the science fiction television series Doomwatch. The show, which ran from 1967 to 1972, was a huge success and catapulted Oates to fame.
He also appeared regularly as Anthony Kelly in the 1960s espionage series The Mask of Janus and its spinoff series The Spies. These roles solidified Oates' reputation as a reliable and talented television actor.
Oates made numerous guest appearances on popular television shows, including The Avengers, Man in a Suitcase, Department S, Jason King, The New Avengers, The Professionals, Bergerac, and The 10 Percenters.
In addition to his television work, Oates appeared in a few films, including Night Train to Paris (1964), The Terrornauts (1967), and the film version of Doomwatch (1972).
Oates was a versatile actor who worked extensively in theatre, both in the UK and internationally. He directed and acted in numerous productions, including a touring theatre company in Canada.
In addition to his acting career, Oates was also a skilled stand-up comic and compere, working with famous stars such as Tom Jones, Sandie Shaw, and the Who.
Oates' son, Justin Brett, also an actor, revealed that his father was once considered for the role of James Bond in Diamonds Are Forever, but Sean Connery ultimately returned to the role.
Simon Oates passed away on May 20, 2009, leaving behind a legacy as a prolific and talented television actor, with a career spanning over four decades.
Born in 1922
Star of the 1960s TV show "The Avengers," playing the suave and sophisticated secret agent John Steed, and also a talented costume designer.
87 Years Old
A renowned stage and screen actress, best known for her iconic role as Emma Peel in the 1960s TV series "The Avengers" and her later work in the "Game of Thrones" series.
78 Years Old
A Canadian actress who played Tara King in the 1960s British TV series "The Avengers", starring alongside Patrick Macnee as John Steed. She's also known for her roles in various other TV shows and films.
Born in 1911
A debonair English comedian and character actor, known for his charming, upper-class persona and memorable roles in classic films like "Private's Progress" and "I'm All Right Jack".
Born in 1925
A renowned English actress, best known for playing Bond girl Pussy Galore in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger, and a passionate advocate for republicanism.
95 Years Old
A British actor who starred in numerous films and TV shows, including the iconic series "The Avengers" and the classic horror film "Theatre of Blood".
