2002
Mr Peter Bowles, Actor
HonDLitt for contributions to the theatre, television drama and entertainment.
Peter Bowles enjoys strong links with Nottingham and still returns to the haunts of his childhood. He grew up in Hyson Green and Highbury Vale and was educated at Berridge Road Juniors and High Pavement Grammar School. His first real experience of acting came courtesy of the city’s Co-operative Arts Centre and he went on to win a scholarship to RADA.
Having started his professional acting career at Nottingham Playhouse in 1953, he made his London stage debut – in Romeo and Juliet at the Old Vic – three years later.
This raised the curtain on a theatrical career which has encompassed many high-profile roles. He has worked extensively with leading director Sir Peter Hall and his film credits include Blow Up, A Day in the Death of Joe Egg and The Steal. He is also well known for his performances in popular TV series like Only When I Laugh, Pennies from Heaven, Rumpole of the Bailey, The Irish RM and To the Manor Born. In addition, he created various celebrated series such as Lytton’s Diary and Perfect Scoundrels.
Peter has won several major awards – including the Comedy Actor of the Year and ITV Personality of the Year titles.