ATV Icon: Leonard Rossiter

The latest to be inducted into the ATV Icon Hall of Fame is actor Leonard Rossiter…

Leonard Rossiter was born on the 21st of October 1926 he became one of the names of the 1970s having forged a career as a distinguished actor renowned for his dynamic performances in theatre, television and film. His portrayals of Rupert Rigsby in Rising Damp and Reginald Perrin in The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin became is best remembered roles, and ones still often seen on television today in reruns.

Born in Wavertree, Liverpool, Rossiter was the second son of Elizabeth (née Howell) and John Rossiter. He attended the Liverpool Collegiate School, where he excelled academically and athletically, particularly in squash, tennis, and football. Financial constraints prevented him from pursuing university education, leading him to work in an insurance office until the age of 27. It was then that he ventured into acting, beginning with regional repertory theatre and eventually joining the Bristol Old Vic.

YTV: Rising Damp, Leonard with Richard Beckinsale and Don Warrington

Rossiter’s theatrical journey commenced in the 1950s, encompassing a diverse array of roles in productions such as Romeo and Juliet, Richard III, and The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. His performances were characterized by meticulous preparation and a fervent energy, earning him acclaim in London’s West End and beyond.

Rossiter’s television career flourished in the 1970s with his role as Rupert Rigsby in Rising Damp (1974–1978), a portrayal that captured the essence of a miserly landlord with both humour and pathos. Simultaneously, he embodied Reginald Perrin in The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin (1976–1979), depicting a man grappling with the absurdities of modern life.​

His filmography includes notable appearances in Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) and Barry Lyndon (1975), showcasing his versatility beyond comedic roles. Additionally, his series of Cinzano commercials with Joan Collins (1978–1983) became iconic for their comedic timing and chemistry.​

YTV: Leonard with Francis de la Tour in Rising Damp

Rossiter’s personal life saw two marriages: first to actress Josephine Tewson from 1958 until their divorce in 1961, and later to actress Gillian Raine in 1972, with whom he had a daughter. Known for his private nature, Rossiter was described by peers as introspective and eccentric, yet generous and honest.​

On 5 October 1984, Rossiter passed away from a heart attack in his dressing room at the Lyric Theatre in London, shortly before a performance of Joe Orton’s Loot. His sudden death at 57 was a significant loss to the acting community. Rossiter’s legacy endures through his influential performances, which continue to inspire actors and entertain audiences.​ His final television series an ITV sitcom from LWT ‘Trippers Day’ aired four episodes prior to his death, with the final two airing posthumously.

In the show Leonard played Norman Tripper, the newly appointed manager of a chaotic supermarket. The show revolved around Tripper’s misadventures and attempts to bring order to a dysfunctional staff and workplace.

Rising Damp can be seen rerun on ITV3