Last updated on: November 14, 2025
Richard Beckinsale was one of Britain’s most loved television actors; he became famous through such classic shows as Porridge, Going Straight, and Rising Damp. Many people remember him for his warm smile, gentle style, and great comic timing. Today, the more youthful audience knows him as the father of the actress Kate Beckinsale. Though he died young, his works and legacy continue to shine.
Quick Facts About Richard Beckinsale
| Full Name | Richard Arthur Beckinsale |
| Birthdate | July 6, 1947 |
| Death Date | March 19, 1979 |
| Age | 31 years (at the time of death) |
| Occupation | Actor (Film & Television) |
| Husband/Wife | Margaret Bradley (1965–1971), Judy Loe (1977–1979) |
| Education | Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) |
| Parents | Arthur John Beckinsale (Father), Margaret Barlow (Mother) |
| Siblings | Judy Yates |
| Children | Samantha Beckinsale, Kate Beckinsale |
| Net worth | $2 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Richard Arthur Beckinsale was born on July 6, 1947, in Carlton, Nottinghamshire. His family background was quite unusual. His father, Arthur John Beckinsale, was Anglo-Burmese, while his mother, Margaret Barlow, was English. Richard was the youngest of three children. He once said he was a distant relative of the famous actor Charles Laughton, which made his love for acting feel even more special.
As a child, Richard loved life’s simple pleasures. He loved school plays and stories. He showed early signs of talent and also showed confidence. His family supported his interest in acting and helped him to dream big.
Education and Training
After completing his schooling, Richard wanted to seriously pursue acting. He entered the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, which is among the most distinguished drama schools in the entire world. He graduated in the year 1968. His training at RADA taught him discipline and skill. It also prepared him for a strong future in theater and television.
Early Career
Richard began his career in repertory theater. He acted in classics such as The Wizard of Oz, Twelfth Night, and Hamlet. Early roles like these helped him grow as a performer.
In 1969, he made his television debut with a small role in Coronation Street. The small part opened many doors for him very soon. People quickly noticed his natural charm.
Rise to Fame
Richard’s big break came with the sitcom The Lovers in the early 1970s. But the roles that made him a national favorite were:
Lennie Godber in Porridge
Alan Moore in Rising Damp
His return in Going Straight, a spin-off of Porridge
Viewers adored his soft-spoken, kind, and highly relatable screen presence; he had this rare ability to make people laugh and feel relaxed at the same time. In his late twenties, he was one of the most popular actors on British television.
Personal Life
Richard married twice.
He first married Margaret Bradley in 1965, with whom he had a daughter named Samantha Beckinsale, born in 1966. Samantha later became an actress as well.
Richard and Margaret divorced in 1971.
He later met the actress Judy Loe, and they married in 1977. The couple had one daughter, Kate Beckinsale, born in 1973. Richard was a gentle and loving father. Kate has often spoken about how kind and funny he was. She was five when he died, but she holds vivid memories of him.
Death
On March 19, 1979, Richard Beckinsale suddenly died of a heart attack; he was only 31 years old. His death shocked the entire country. Such a loss was felt deeply by fans, fellow actors, and producers alike. Many called him a “national treasure” because of his huge impact on British comedy.
READ ALSO: Kate Beckinsale Net worth, Age, Boyfriend, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Even though his life was short, Richard’s legacy remains strong. His shows are still on the air. Every year, new people discover him. His daughters, Kate and Samantha, followed in their father’s artistic path and became actresses too. Richard Beckinsale is remembered not only for his brilliance but for his warmth also. His subtle humor, bright smile, and kind nature left an impression on everyone who watched him. Though he is gone today, his work still continues to bring joy to millions of people.
