Harry H. Corbett was an English actor best known for his role as Harold Steptoe in the British sitcom “Steptoe and Son.” He was born on February 28, 1925, in Rangoon, British Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar), to parents Frederick William Corbett and Jane Elizabeth Corbett.
Corbett’s early life was marked by tragedy as his father died when he was just seven years old. The family moved back to England, where Corbett grew up in Manchester. Despite his challenging childhood, Corbett discovered a passion for acting and began performing in local theater productions.
After leaving school at the age of 15, Corbett worked as a messenger boy for the Manchester Corporation. He also joined the Royal Navy during World War II, serving as a midshipman. After the war, he pursued his acting career and trained at the Old Vic Theatre School in Bristol.
Corbett’s breakthrough came in 1962 when he was cast as Harold Steptoe in the BBC sitcom “Steptoe and Son.” The show, created by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, depicted the dysfunctional relationship between Harold and his father, Albert Steptoe (played by Wilfrid Brambell). The groundbreaking sitcom ran for eight years and became immensely popular, showcasing Corbett’s talent for both comedy and dramatic acting.
In addition to his success on the small screen, Corbett also had a significant presence in the film industry. He starred in several movies, including “Carry On Screaming!” (1966), “Mister Ten Per Cent” (1967), and “The Waterloo Bridge Handicap” (1978). His performances in these films further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor.
Throughout his career, Corbett received critical acclaim and numerous awards for his work, including the prestigious BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for “Steptoe and Son” in 1963. He was also nominated for the same award in 1967 and 1970.
Outside of his acting career, Corbett was known for his advocacy of working-class issues. He often spoke out about social inequality, highlighting the struggles faced by those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He believed in the power of education as a means to overcome these challenges.
Sadly, Harry H. Corbett passed away on March 21, 1982, at the age of 57, due to a heart attack while touring with a stage production of “The Dresser.” His legacy as one of Britain’s finest actors and his iconic portrayal of Harold Steptoe continue to have a lasting impact on the world of comedy.
Harry H. Corbett’s contributions to the entertainment industry and his dedication to portraying complex working-class characters have had a lasting impact on British television and theater. His ability to balance humor and pathos has influenced generations of actors and comedians, and his role as Harold Steptoe remains one of the most iconic in British sitcom history. Corbett’s commitment to highlighting social issues and his belief in the transformative power of education make him an inspirational figure both in the world of acting and beyond.
