Richard Beckinsale(1947-1979)

All who knew him were shocked and devastated by his death, particularly Ronnie Barker. He was so upset he couldn't work for several days.

When I decided to become an actor, it wasn't actually to make money or to make a living. I wanted to be an actor because I wanted to act. I've always had this desire to communicate a great kind of beauty to other people, like a vicar or priest does, to transport people to the world where I live. I just appreciate living on earth at an artistic level. There's a great deal of satisfaction in living this way. It's like love, I suppose. There are no words for it, apart from love - to give people love, to teach people love. I think it is probably the main driving force in my life.