The Archers star Charles Collingwood: ‘The last lie I told? Darling, marvellous isn't the word'

The Guardian

08-03-2025

Born in Canada, Charles Collingwood, 81, studied at Rada. He began his career in repertory theatre and moved into children's television. He later worked on the 90s quizshow Telly Addicts and in Inspector Morse and Midsomer Murders. He is best known for playing Brian Aldridge in BBC Radio 4 drama The Archers, and this year celebrates 50 years in the role. His wife, Judy Bennett, played Shula Hebden Lloyd in The Archers. They live in Hampshire.
When were you happiest?
My childhood. I was an only child, happy and secure, and there was always plenty of time to play cricket.
What is your greatest fear?
Heights.
What is your earliest memory?
Being told off at my nursery school for writing 'bosom' in the condensation on the bus window. To my horror, the bus company had reported me.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
Freddie Flintoff. He played cricket in the best spirit and in his series Field of Dreams, you could see the boys hanging on his every word. He's a special guy.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I talk too much.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Not listening to me.
Aside from property, what's the most expensive thing you've ever bought?
My beautiful silver Jaguar XKR soft-top.
What is your most treasured possession?
A clock won by a family member in 1865 in a shooting competition.
Describe yourself in three words
Glass half full.
What would your superpower be?
Breaking all batting records for England.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
Not having matinee idol hair.
Who would play you in the film of your life?
Hugh Grant.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Joan Collins.
What is the worst thing anyone's ever said to you?
In an audition at the Royal Court, this man called out, 'Were you trained?'
Would you choose fame or anonymity?
Fame.
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What was the last lie that you told?
'Darling, marvellous isn't the word' – in someone's dressing room when I've not thought much of their performance.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Alcohol.
To whom would you most like to say sorry and why?
My first wife – we were too young.
What is the worst job you've done?
Standing outside a pub in Acton on a freezing February day in a threadbare overcoat doing market research.
If not yourself, who would you most like to be?
The king.
When did you last cry, and why?
Watching the Festival of Remembrance last autumn.
What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
If you'd asked me last year, I would have said a knee replacement.
Would you rather have more sex, money or fame?
Yes to all.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a man who tried his best to entertain.
What happens when we die?
When my mother died in my arms, I feel I witnessed her spirit leaving her body, so let's just wait and see.