holby.tv are sad to report the death of actor Bernard Gallagher, 87, from pneumonia on 27th November.
Bernard played CASUALTY’s first Consultant Ewart Plimmer in the first three series and was an integral part of the show. His character Ewart was passionate about his job, which cost him his marriage but was a good friend to his staff.
Although not making a personal appearance, his character was acknowledged in Series 30’s opening episodes written by co-creator Paul Unwin.
Born in 1929 in Bradford, West Yorkshire, Bernard was the second of three boys and one girl born to millworkers Harry and Ellen. He began acting from an early age, having performed plays at St Bede’s Catholic grammar school and at Sheffield University (1948-51), where he studied English.
After gaining a diploma in education, Gallagher did his national service as a flying officer in the RAF educational service (1952-54), during which he also appeared in theatrical productions, then taught English at a Birmingham technical college for a year.
His professional acting career began when an RAF friend started a company in Lyme Regis where Bernard made his debut in Robert Morley’s comedy Hippo Dancing.
It was in the mid-60’s, he headed to London’s Royal Court and made a huge impression in Joe Orton plays ‘The Ruffian on the Stair’ and ‘The Erpingham Camp’.
Bernard made his television debut as the solicitor husband in the Robert Muller television play ‘A World of Time’ and in 1978 he played Mervyn Price in the sitcom ‘Selwyn’.
As well as his role in Casualty which he starred in from 1986-1988, he has also appeared in Crown Court, Heartbeat, Eastenders, Downton Abbey and Doctors. His last credited appearance was in BBC 3 comedy ‘Together’ last year.
Bernard is survived by his wife Sylvia Vickers (married to in 1971) and their two children, Matthew and Zoe.
As playing one of Casualty’s most iconic characters, Bernard will be greatly missed but fondly remembered.
So sad to hear my friend the actor #BernardGallagher has died. Worked on @BBCCasualty but also at @BristolOldVic in #Hamlet. A dear nice man
— Paul Unwin (@UnwinPaul) December 1, 2016
Hugely sad to hear of the death of my old #Casualty colleague – Bernard Gallagher. An extremely fine actor and friend. RIP. pic.twitter.com/UpXbA4T4Ss
— Lisa Bowerman (@TheLisaBowerman) December 1, 2016
Remembering Bernard in Casualty…
