Cast as a charming, impoverished young man who hits it rich with his marriage to an heiress, SIMON MACCORKINDALE makes his major film screen debut in “Death On The Nile.”
The 25-year-old actor has already established his reputation on British television with his performances in such productions as “I Claudius,” “The Life and Times of Shakespeare,” “Just William,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Within These Walls” and Franco Zeffirelli’s internationally networked “Jesus of Nazareth.”
Film: Death on the Nile First Aired: 29 September 1978 (USA) Character: Simon Doyle
Description: As Hercule Poirot enjoys a luxurious cruise down the Nile, a newlywed heiress is found murdered on board. Can Poirot identify the killer before the ship reaches the end of its journey?
After hearing so many wonderful things about Simon the other day, and the fact I’ve been meaning to write something like this down for a while, I figure it’s now or never.
A few words about Simon: ‘Passionate, Eternal Optimist, Driven Achiever’.
These are the words Simon choose to describe himself in our ‘Meet a Member‘ questions a few years ago. I don’t think I know anyone who would disagree with any of these words.
For me Simon always came across as a decent guy, kind and caring and it was these characteristics that made me a fan of Simon and his work, the fact he was damned good looking was an added bonus.
I’ve always believed you can tell a lot about a person about what others think of them or what they think of others. I remember talking to Simon in a theater and there was an old man with severe hunch behind me, Simon suddenly said ‘oh my god that poor man’, I’d never seen anyone look so concerned and it was for someone he didn’t even know. I also never heard Simon say a bad word about anyone.
From a fans viewpoint Simon is an excellent role model, honest, hard-working and happily married for over 20 years. Mimicking is the highest form of adoration and if more people were like Simon then the world would be a better place for everyone.
I always felt I knew a different Simon to his friends and family, I felt I only really knew the guy off the telly (Harry, Peter, Jonathan, Greg) although there were times where you could see Simon himself in interviews and in person. Even if it was just a minute Simon tried to give time to his fans, by having photo’s taken, signing autographs or just by talking with a fan. He always had a way of making you feel relaxed and he would try to talk to everyone waiting for him outside a stage door and make them feel important.
I miss Simon, but in someway I know that part of the person I knew I can never forget as all I have to do it dig out a DVD and there he is, smiling, laughing and joking. I also know that in decades from now probably around Christmas or Easter I’ll turn on a TV and there will be a 25 year old Simon on my TV in Death on the Nile and all the memories, if they’re not still at the front of my mind, will come pouring back. I don’t think I’ll ever be a fan of anyone the same way I am of Simon, he is someone I’ll never ever forgot, and I’m glad I got a chance to know him.
‘Casualty’ and ‘Dynasty’ star SIMON MacCORKINDALE 1952-2010
Wife Susan George pays moving tribute as he loses cancer battle
Much-loved actor Simon MacCorkindale died of cancer in the arms of his wife Susan George last week, at the age of just 58.
The former Casualty star died in a London clinic after a brave four-year fight against a disease that he refused to let dominate his life.
In a moving tribute to her beloved husband of 25 years, actress Susan said: “To me, he was simply the best of everything, and I loved him with all my heart He will live on in me forever”
Urbane British leading man who co-starred in Death on the Nile and was a stalwart of the long-running medical drama Casualty
Simon MacCorkindale was a classically handsome, rugged and urbane English leading man who had recurring roles in the glossy US soap opera Falcon Crest (1984-86) and more recently in the long-running British medical drama series Casualty (2002-08). He appeared in more than 200 episodes.
Suave actor known for his roles in Falcon Crest and Casualty
In common with his contemporaries Jeremy Irons, Michael York and Hugh Grant, the actor Simon MacCorkindale, who has died of cancer aged 58, on screen projected the very English persona of an ex-public schoolboy. But unlike them, MacCorkindale never made it big in films. Nevertheless, his “posh” accent, his suave demeanour and patrician good looks made him a natural for roles in television soap operas, from the opulent mansions of Falcon Crest (1984-1986), to the hospital corridors of Casualty (2002-2008). In the latter, he played the autocratic clinical consultant Harry Harper, who ran Holby City hospital’s emergency department. A doctor of the old school, he sweeps through the wards, advising, cajoling, admonishing and seducing colleagues and patients alike.
THE actor Simon MacCorkindale has died after a four-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. The 58-year-old, who had a wide-ranging career including six years in the BBC medical drama Casualty as Dr Harry Harper, died on Thursday in the arms of his wife, the actress Susan George at a London clinic.
Miss George said: “To me, he was simply the best of everything, and I loved him with all my heart. He will live on in me forever.”
Actor who specialised in handsome, roguish charmers and was once hailed as the new Errol Flynn
SIMON MacCORKINDALE, the actor, who died on October 14 aged 58, built a 30-year stage and television career playing handsome, often roguish, charmers – most recently the consultant Harry Harper in the popular BBC hospital drama Casualty.
Early in his career, his talent for playing stiff-upper-lipped romantic leads won him flattering accolades such as “Boy’s Own Brit”. He was acclaimed as a new Errol Flynn or David Niven, whose “flawless looks, perfect features, perfect hair, perfect skin” were admired by one breathless female critic in The Sunday Telegraph
CASUALTY star Simon MacCorkindale died peacefully in his wife’s arms after bravely battling cancer in secret.
Devastated actress Susan George said yesterday: “No one could have fought this disease any harder. To me, he was simply the best of everything, and I loved him with all my heart.”
The suave actor, whose wide-ranging career also took in US shows Manimal and Falcon Crest, died on Thursday night aged 58.
Simon, star of Casualty, dies in arms of his wife Susan George
SIMON MacCorkindale, the film star who became a stalwart of the BBC drama Casualty, has died after a four-year battle with cancer.
The 58-year-old died in the arms of his wife, Susan George, at a clinic in Harley Street.
In a statement released last night, the actress said: ‘No one could have fought this disease any harder than he did since being diagnosed four years ago.
‘He fought it with such strength, courage and belief. Last night, he lost this battle, and he died peacefully in my arms.
The timeless family classic, The Sound Of Music, continues to delight audiences in this lavish production at the legendary London Palladium.
Summer Strallen as Maria is now joined by TV star Simon MacCorkindale as Captain von Trapp. Simon, best known recently for his starring role as Harry Harper in BBC’s Casualty, has taken time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions about the show and his career.
Theatre includes: as director, Sleuth (Texas and California), A Doll’s House (Dramalogue Award as Best Director, Matrix, Hollywood) and The Merchant of Venice (The Globe, Hollywood); as actor, Gayden Chronicles (Los Angeles), Macbeth (Ludlow Festival), Relatively Speaking (Questors and Oakington), Dark Lady of the Sonnets (NT), French Without Tears (Thorndike, Leatherhead), B-B-Que (Soho Polytechnic), Pygmalion (Albery), The Happiest Days of Your Life (Oakington), Potsdam Quartet (Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford), Back to Methuselah (Shaw Festival), Bequest to the Nation, The Front Page, Getting On and Journey’s End (Belgrade, Coventry) and, most recently, The Unexpected Guest and Sleuth (national tours).
So What’s It like Being Married to The World’s Sexiest Woman?
Friends with Prince Charles. Wed to Susan George. New Star of The Sound Of Music . . . it’s not easy being Simon MacCorkindale
Simon MacCorkindale will, I suspect, make a rather good Captain Von Trapp; not least because he appears to share some of the characteristics of The Sound Of Music’s famously stern Austrian paterfamilias.
There’s the brisk, martial manner for starters, a certain lack of levity and an absolute absence of sentimentality.
Simon, who takes over the captain’s role in the hit West End musical on Monday, is rehearsing the part with his habitual fastidious attention to detail when I arrive at the London Palladium to meet him.
IT has more twists than a 1960s dance festival and – if done properly – a jaw-dropping surprise. Sleuth, which opens at Theatre Royal in Newcastle tonight, is a cat and mouse thriller which continually wrong-foots audiences – if they haven’t seen it before, of course.
Simon MacCorkindale, who stars in Anthony Schaffer’s award-winning play alongside former Dynasty actor Michael Praed, reckons there are still plenty of Sleuth novices around.
Thanks to Kathie – SMCFP’s Northern Correspondent 😉
Detective skills are hardly needed to work out why last year’s new film of Sleuth flopped while this year’s new theatre version is packing them in, but let the play’s star Simon MacCorkindale help work it out.
“They departed from the original material and most of the things that were attractive in the original got left out,” says the Casualty heart-throb.
The big interview Simon MacCorkindale has rubbed shoulders with tinseltown’s elite but is just as happy on stage in Glasgow
WHEN Simon MacCorkindale watches hit US shows like Lost, Ugly Betty or Pushing Daisies he can say: “Been there, done that.”
The veteran actor might be best known as Casualty heart-throb Harry Harper but his long and successful career saw him cross the Atlantic and crack America 30 years ago.
Simon MacCorkindale was a British actor, director, and writer, best known for his iconic roles in both television and film. With a career that spanned over four decades, he became a household name in the entertainment industry, celebrated for his diverse range of roles across various genres, from action and drama to science fiction.
Early Life and Background Born on February 12, 1952, in Ely, Cambridgeshire, Simon Charles Pendered MacCorkindale grew up in a family with a rich military and artistic heritage. His father, Peter MacCorkindale, was a former RAF pilot, and his mother, Gill, came from a family with Scottish roots. Simon was the first-born child, with his younger brother Duncan working as an accountant. Raised in a well-rounded environment, Simon developed a passion for the arts at a young age. His talent for storytelling and performance was evident early on, setting the stage for his future career.
In 1984, Simon MacCorkindale married actress and long-time friend Susan George, marking a significant personal milestone in his life. Their bond, built on mutual respect and shared experiences in the entertainment industry, was a strong and enduring partnership. Together, they shared a love of animals and eventually became owners of the Georgian Arabians Arabian stud farm in Exmoor, UK. Their shared passion for horses and the serene life of rural England was a retreat from the often hectic pace of their careers in show business. Simon and Susan were known for their close-knit relationship, often working on various projects together and supporting each other both professionally and personally. Their marriage, lasting until Simon’s untimely death in 2010, stood as a testament to their deep connection and shared commitment to each other.
Career Highlights Simon’s big break came in 1978 when he appeared in the film Death on the Nile, based on the famous Agatha Christie novel. His portrayal of Simon Doyle helped launch his career, making him a recognizable face in both the UK and abroad. Following this, Simon moved into television, where he became widely known for his role as Jonathan Chase in the 1983 TV series Manimal, a groundbreaking show where he played a man with the ability to transform into animals.
Notable TV Roles In the early 1980s, Simon achieved further recognition with his role as Jonathan Chase in the cult classic Manimal (1983). The series, known for its mix of science fiction and action, saw Simon play a man with the ability to transform into animals, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The show’s premise, though short-lived, became a standout moment in Simon’s career.
Simon also made notable appearances in television dramas such as Falcon Crest (1984–1986), where he played the role of Greg Reardon, a character who quickly became entangled in the soap opera’s complex relationships. His time on Falcon Crest was pivotal, with Simon’s character becoming a significant part of the show’s intricate drama.
Simon MacCorkindale played the role of Peter Sinclair in the action-packed international spy drama Counterstrike (1990-1993). As a former cop turned security expert, Sinclair was a key member of a covert team tasked with taking down global threats. Simon brought a unique depth to the character, portraying a man driven by justice and resourcefulness, yet haunted by his past. His performance blended intense action with emotional complexity, allowing Sinclair to evolve from a tough, action-oriented hero to a more vulnerable, morally conflicted figure. Counterstrike gave Simon the chance to explore a different type of role compared to his earlier work, and it broadened his international appeal, introducing him to a global audience. The series was known for its fast-paced, high-stakes plots, and Simon’s portrayal of Sinclair was central to its success.
However, it was his portrayal of Harry Harper in the British medical drama Casualty (1999–2006) that became one of his most beloved and iconic roles. Simon played the charismatic, yet troubled, emergency room doctor for an impressive 230 episodes of Casualty, as well as 4 episodes of its spin-off show Holby City. Over his six-year run, Simon’s character became a key part of the show’s rich, emotional storytelling. His dedication to the role was evident, as he only missed 7 episodes in total throughout his time on the series, solidifying his place as one of the series’ most prominent characters.
Film Career In addition to his work in television, Simon featured in the film The Riddle of the Sands (1979), a World War I espionage thriller based on the novel by Erskine Childers. Simon portrayed Arthur Davies, a key role in the suspense-filled narrative that involved naval intelligence and international intrigue. The film was a hit in its genre, showcasing Simon’s range in more dramatic, period pieces.
One of his most famous film roles came in Jaws 3D (1983), where he played Philip FitzRoyce, a character involved in the chaos caused by the great white shark terrorizing a theme park. While the film was more famous for its gimmick of 3D rather than critical acclaim, it was another major moment in Simon’s diverse filmography.
His film and TV roles often spanned across genres, from thrillers to romantic dramas, but Simon’s distinctive presence remained a constant across all his performances. Over the years, Simon’s body of work solidified his place in both British and American television and film, where he continues to be remembered for his performances in classic, genre-defining roles.
Stage Work and Theatre Performances ne of Simon’s most notable stage roles was as Michael Starkwedder in Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest. This play, a gripping murder mystery, gave Simon the opportunity to showcase his ability to portray complex, morally ambiguous characters. His performance was well-received, demonstrating his natural talent for suspenseful and psychological drama.
Simon also starred as Andrew Wyke in the classic thriller Sleuth by Anthony Shaffer. He performed in the production several times during the early 1980s, including a memorable run in the Hollywood theater scene during the revival of interest in British plays. Simon’s portrayal of Wyke, a wealthy playwright caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with his wife’s lover, earned critical praise for its intensity and wit. He later returned to Sleuth in a UK tour in 2008, highlighting his enduring connection to the stage and his mastery of intricate, intellectual characters.
Another of Simon’s stage triumphs came in the role of Captain Von Trapp in the beloved musical The Sound of Music. In this production, Simon made his debut in musical theater, a genre that was somewhat different from his usual work. His portrayal of the strict but loving father figure was both heartfelt and commanding, and the role allowed Simon to explore a more emotionally complex character in a beloved story. His performance was particularly notable for how he brought warmth and humanity to the iconic character, making it a memorable part of his stage career.
Legacy and Lasting Impact Simon MacCorkindale’s career spanned across multiple mediums and industries, and he left a lasting mark on television, film, and theater. His diverse roles and ability to transform into a variety of characters made him a respected figure in the entertainment world.
This is a work in progress – will continue to update when I can
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Simon MacCorkindale was a versatile actor whose career spanned film, television, and theater. Known for his captivating performances in both dramatic and action-packed roles, Simon’s filmography includes iconic roles in Death on the Nile (1978), Jaws 3D (1983), and the beloved TV series Manimal (1983). He also made significant contributions to long-running television series such as Casualty and Falcon Crest.
Beyond the screen, Simon had an impressive career on the stage, starring in productions like The Sound of Music and Sleuth. His talent and dedication to his craft earned him a reputation as one of Britain’s most respected actors.
Explore Simon’s Full Filmography Below
This is a continuously expanding list of all the projects Simon MacCorkindale has been involved in—whether as an actor, producer, director, or voiceover artist. It’s the most comprehensive filmography of Simon available online. The list includes his film roles, TV appearances, and stage performances. Each entry is linked to a variety of media, such as videos, screenshots, and photographs, as well as articles and interviews related to his roles
But not just on TV— in real life, accident-prone actor often finds himself in hospital
THERE’S a reason why Simon MacCorkindale carries off the role of consultant Harry Harper in BBC’s Casualty so well — he’s never out of his local hospital’s casualty department as a patient!
He and his wife, actress Susan George, run a very successful horse farm when not appearing on stage or screen, and Simon is very much hands-on down on the farm.
Casualty star Simon MacCorkindale tells Alison Jones why he has packed away his stethoscope and returned to the stage.
It is always a challenge following in the footsteps of an actor who has become irrevocably associated with a part.
Particularly if that actor casts as long a shadow as the late Sir Laurence Olivier.
In the recent film remake of the thriller Sleuth, director Kenneth Branagh rather cleverly got round the problem by having Michael Caine swop roles.
In the 1972 Joseph L Mankiewicz version, Caine played Milo Tindle, the upstart young lover of Olivier’s wife who is unwillingly drawn into an elaborate battle of wits.
In 2007 it was Caine’s turn to play the vengeful, cuckolded husband (Andrew Wyke), with Jude Law repeating another Caine role after already starring in Alfie.
For the stage production currently doing the regional rounds, comparisons to Larry are avoided by the fact that Andrew, played by Simon MacCorkindale, has effectively been aged down and Milo, played by Michael Praed, aged up.
STAGE CLASSIC IS BRINGING OUT THE MANIMAL IN SIMON
He was the English aristocrat of choice a decade before Colin Firth emerged from a lake to become a housewife heartthrob and Hollywood star.
Simon MacCorkindale played the upper-crust cad in some of the most popular American television series of the 1980s – from The Dukes of Hazzard and Hart To Hart to Dynasty and Falcon Crest.
Now he’s taking to the Nottingham stage as a devious author in the revival of psychological thriller Sleuth, alongside his Dynasty co-star and former TV Robin Hood Michael Praed.
001 – From Clare: How have you family (Susan included) influenced your career? Well I think mostly through their absolute continued unquestioning support for whatever I embark upon. Susan particularly is a very good springboard for various choices that I have made so I do share all the choices that I make. I think that my mum and dad particularly, it was about the honesty of what one was trying to do, and the respect for the audience. Very early on my father taught me about respect for the audience. I’m not sure I was ever really gonna go down in a daft way with it but certainly that I think has been a very important part in how I deal with the public. I’m always giving the time for other people even within a busy schedule.