Richard Leech facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Leech
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in Lease of Life (1954)
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| Born |
Richard Leeper McClelland
24 November 1922 |
| Died | 24 March 2004 (aged 81) |
| Years active | 1949–1988 |
| Spouse(s) | Helen Hyslop Uttley (her death) (2 children) Diane Margaret McClelland (1975-2004 (his death) |
| Children | 2 |
Richard Leeper McClelland (born November 24, 1922 – died March 24, 2004), known professionally as Richard Leech, was a well-known Irish actor. He appeared in many films and television shows during his long career.
Richard was born in Dublin, Ireland. His father, Herbert Saunderson McClelland, was a lawyer. Richard went to school at Haileybury and later studied at Trinity College, Dublin. He first trained to be a doctor and worked in that field from 1945 to 1946. However, he soon decided that acting was his true calling and became a full-time actor.
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Richard Leech's Acting Career
Richard Leech had a busy career that lasted almost 40 years. He was known for playing many different types of characters.
Famous Film Roles
Richard Leech appeared in many popular movies. One of his most famous roles was playing Squadron Leader H. M. Young, also known as "Dinghy Young," in The Dam Busters (1955). This film tells the true story of a daring World War II mission.
Other notable films he was in include:
- Night of the Demon (1957), a classic horror movie.
- Ice Cold in Alex (1958), a war film set in the desert.
- Tunes of Glory (1960), a drama about a Scottish regiment.
- Young Winston (1972), where he played Moore.
- Gandhi (1982), an award-winning film about the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
- The Shooting Party (1985), his last major film role.
Television Appearances
Richard Leech was also a familiar face on television. He appeared in many popular British TV series.
Some of his well-known television roles include:
- Three different roles in the spy series The Avengers.
- Danger Man, another spy show.
- The Doctors, a medical drama.
- The Duchess of Duke Street, a historical drama.
- A special episode of Doctor Who called The Sun Makers (1977), where he played Gatherer Hade.
- Smiley's People, a spy miniseries.
Personal Life
Richard Leech was married twice. His first wife was Helen Hyslop Uttley. Later, he married Diane Pearson. He had two children, Sarah-Jane McClelland and Eliza McClelland.
Richard Leech passed away on March 24, 2004, at the age of 81. He left behind a legacy of many memorable performances in film and television.
Images for kids
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Richard Leech in Lease of Life (1954)
