Actor Richard O'Sullivan, best known for his role as Robin Tripp in the popular 1970s sitcoms "Man About the House" and its spin-off "Robin's Nest," has died at the age of 82.
O'Sullivan passed away surrounded by close family at Brinsworth House, a care home run by the Royal Variety Charity in Twickenham, west London. He had resided there for the past 23 years.
His son, James O'Sullivan, remembered his father as being "as funny and charming in real life as he appeared on our TV screens over the years." He described his father as "always kind-spirited, good humoured, a doting grandfather and a wonderful dad." James O'Sullivan also expressed gratitude to the staff at Brinsworth House for their "love, kindness and care."
Giles Cooper, Life-President of the Royal Variety Charity, praised O'Sullivan as a "master of effortless charm and impeccable comic timing," who brought "pure warmth, wit, and unforgettable joy to millions of living rooms as a true giant of British television." He added that O'Sullivan would be "sorely missed."
Born in Chiswick, west London, O'Sullivan began his acting career at a young age. He debuted in "The Yellow Balloon" in 1952 and appeared in the film "The Stranger's Hand" the following year. As an adult, he featured in early 1960s Cliff Richard films, including "The Young Ones" and "Wonderful Life."
His television career included roles in series such as "Redcap," "Danger Man," "No Hiding Place," and "Strange Report." He gained wider recognition in the early 1970s with comedy roles, including Lawrence Bingham in "Doctor at Large."
"Man About the House," which premiered in 1973, focused on a man sharing a flat with two single women, a premise considered daring for its time. O'Sullivan reprised his role as Robin Tripp in the 1977 spin-off "Robin's Nest," where the character opened a bistro. He also appeared in other series like "Dick Turpin" and "Me and My Girl."