Simon MacCorkindale

In the pantheon of British talent that found global recognition, Simon MacCorkindale stands as a poignant figure—an actor whose career, though interrupted by illness, shone with the bright promise of a versatile and devoted craftsman. Born on February 12, 1952, in Ely, Cambridgeshire, MacCorkindale's life played out like the script of the dramatic roles he would come to master—filled with unexpected twists, unwavering resolve, and a legacy that would resonate long after the final curtain. Simon Charles Pendered MacCorkindale was the son of Peter Bernard MacCorkindale, an RAF Group Captain, and Gilliver Mary. The wartime milieu in which he came into the world perhaps left an indelible mark on him, lending a gravitas to his performances that would later captivate audiences. Initially inclined towards a career in the Royal Air Force, a childhood eye injury steered his ambitions towards the arts. He attended Haileybury and Imperial Service College and later honed his craft at the Theatre of Arts in London. MacCorkindale's initial foray into acting was rooted in classical theater, an arena where his chiselled looks and resonant voice set the stage for a promising career. His portrayal of roles in productions such as "Macbeth" and "Six Characters in Search of an Author" signified a young actor with a flair for depth and complexity. The transition from the stage to the screen was a natural progression. He made his television debut in 1974 with "The Beast Must Die," establishing himself as a commanding presence on the small screen. His breakout moment arrived with the 1980 series "Death on the Nile," where he played the role of Simon Doyle. Here, the elegance and sinister undertones of his performance did not go unnoticed, and it led to a series of roles that capitalized on these traits. MacCorkindale’s allure also translated well to international audiences, leading him to Hollywood. In the United States, he captivated audiences with his roles on series like "Falcon Crest," where he played the manipulative but charming lawyer, Greg Reardon. The American television scene in the 1980s was a fertile ground for British imports, and MacCorkindale was at its forefront. His performances often evoked a sense of conflicted dignity, leading The New York Times to once describe his acting as "effortlessly aristocratic, a quality that is both a blessing and a curse." Amidst his film and television ventures, MacCorkindale never lost touch with his theatrical roots. He continued to grace the London stage, delivering memorable turns in productions such as "The Merchant of Venice" and "Pygmalion." These performances helped solidify his reputation as a consummate actor, one who could navigate the nuances of both screen and stage with ease. Beyond his acting career, MacCorkindale was a creative force behind the camera. His foray into producing and directing demonstrated a restless intellect, always eager to explore new facets of the entertainment industry. He established Amy International, a production company that allowed him to nurture and support varied creative projects, ranging from television series to film productions. His commitment to the craft extended beyond personal ambition; it became a platform to contribute to the narratives that defined the times. In 1984, he married actress Susan George, consolidating a partnership that was as much personal as it was professional. Together they shared a life that was frequently in the spotlight, yet managed to cultivate a sense of domestic tranquility that eludes many in the industry. Their relationship was a testament to the depth and complexity that often characterized his screen roles. However, MacCorkindale's life took a somber turn in 2006 when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Even as his health waned, he continued to work, refusing to allow his illness to define his legacy or overshadow his contributions to the arts. His brave confrontation with the disease was marked by a remarkable tenacity and grace, mirroring the resilience of the characters he often portrayed. On October 14, 2010, MacCorkindale passed away at the age of 58, leaving behind a catalog of work that continues to inspire and engage both new audiences and veteran admirers. His passing was mourned widely across the industry, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to storytelling. Simon MacCorkindale's legacy is defined not just by the roles he inhabited, but by the profound sense of dedication and authenticity he brought to each performance. His work remains a testament to the power of theater, television, and film to transcend the mundane and explore the depths of the human experience. In an industry where careers are often as ephemeral as the scripts they are based on, MacCorkindale's enduring influence serves as a reminder of the timeless resonance of well-crafted storytelling.