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Peter Wyngarde: A Life Amongst Strangers
For the first time ever, the life story of one of the great television and style icons.
Peter Wyngarde: the name elicits memories of an actor with worldwide renown and instantly adhesive star quality, who was to hit his professional zenith via his starring roles in the smash hit TV series, Department S, and its equally successful spin-off, Jason King. However, when this imperial phase of his career took a downturn during the mid-1970s, he stoically dusted himself off and returned to the theatre—the scene of so many of his earliest triumphs. There he enjoyed continued success until a late-period revival came with the role of General Klytus in the 1980 blockbuster, Flash Gordon.
Ordinarily, this book would end there. The fact that it doesn’t reveals an unusual dichotomy: it splits Wyngarde’s life into two, almost equal, parts. From the late 1980s, the author came into his orbit as the long yearned-for, missing piece of the puzzle: namely a strong, dependable sounding board and, increasingly, his soulmate.
To those who have been content to view Wyngarde as a two-dimensional figure on a TV screen, or merely as the subject of media gossip, this book will come as a revelation—and no doubt a startling one, as it will shatter many long-held myths and preconceptions. And yet in spite of her closeness to the subject, the author has refused to place him on a pedestal: her exploration of his life and career is as honest as it is eye-opening. While she does not shy away from Wyngarde’s more difficult characteristics and painful life experiences, the thread running through the book is a story of love and devotion that is deeply touching and ultimately heart-wrenching.
Peter Wyngarde: the name elicits memories of an actor with worldwide renown and instantly adhesive star quality, who was to hit his professional zenith via his starring roles in the smash hit TV series, Department S, and its equally successful spin-off, Jason King. However, when this imperial phase of his career took a downturn during the mid-1970s, he stoically dusted himself off and returned to the theatre—the scene of so many of his earliest triumphs. There he enjoyed continued success until a late-period revival came with the role of General Klytus in the 1980 blockbuster, Flash Gordon.
Ordinarily, this book would end there. The fact that it doesn’t reveals an unusual dichotomy: it splits Wyngarde’s life into two, almost equal, parts. From the late 1980s, the author came into his orbit as the long yearned-for, missing piece of the puzzle: namely a strong, dependable sounding board and, increasingly, his soulmate.
To those who have been content to view Wyngarde as a two-dimensional figure on a TV screen, or merely as the subject of media gossip, this book will come as a revelation—and no doubt a startling one, as it will shatter many long-held myths and preconceptions. And yet in spite of her closeness to the subject, the author has refused to place him on a pedestal: her exploration of his life and career is as honest as it is eye-opening. While she does not shy away from Wyngarde’s more difficult characteristics and painful life experiences, the thread running through the book is a story of love and devotion that is deeply touching and ultimately heart-wrenching.
534 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 2, 2020
A Scholarly work that sets the record straight about the mysterious and compelling Peter Wyngarde
This book is a study in contradictions. It is a breezy, entertaining read and yet it is full of documentation and fact at an astounding level of detail. It is enormously long yet not intimidating. The first-time author does not shy away from the pain experienced by the subject of the book–there is no attempt to cover up the foibles of a complex man–and yet the entire work is suffused with an affection which never becomes cloying. It is a masterful study of a life lived to the full–through triumph and heartbreak and everything in between, Peter Wyngarde navigated a minefield of personal and professional obstacles that would have destroyed a dozen careers. He took shrapnel from a few, and these are studied in detail. His later years and decline are also unflinchingly included.
This is like no other show-biz memoir I have ever read, because it has such a clear-headed drive to tell the truth, no matter how painful or embarrassing. This is a life–unvarnished, raw and powerful–and I can’t put the book down! What started as a fascination with Wyngarde’s voice as General Klytus in FLASH GORDON and later his work in DEPARTMENT S and JASON KING has brought me to want to learn more about the man behind the roles he played. If you are similarly inclined, or enjoy reading about the lives of those who bring many of our dreams to life on the stage, in film and in television I recommend this volume without reservation. Especially the hardcover–a strong binding for so many pages is essential.
This book is a study in contradictions. It is a breezy, entertaining read and yet it is full of documentation and fact at an astounding level of detail. It is enormously long yet not intimidating. The first-time author does not shy away from the pain experienced by the subject of the book–there is no attempt to cover up the foibles of a complex man–and yet the entire work is suffused with an affection which never becomes cloying. It is a masterful study of a life lived to the full–through triumph and heartbreak and everything in between, Peter Wyngarde navigated a minefield of personal and professional obstacles that would have destroyed a dozen careers. He took shrapnel from a few, and these are studied in detail. His later years and decline are also unflinchingly included.
This is like no other show-biz memoir I have ever read, because it has such a clear-headed drive to tell the truth, no matter how painful or embarrassing. This is a life–unvarnished, raw and powerful–and I can’t put the book down! What started as a fascination with Wyngarde’s voice as General Klytus in FLASH GORDON and later his work in DEPARTMENT S and JASON KING has brought me to want to learn more about the man behind the roles he played. If you are similarly inclined, or enjoy reading about the lives of those who bring many of our dreams to life on the stage, in film and in television I recommend this volume without reservation. Especially the hardcover–a strong binding for so many pages is essential.
October 19, 2020
Book review
A great biography in 2 parts.
Such amazing and accurate detail that it’s obvious Wyngarde and The author were true soulmates. It’s an insightful, warts and all read which for me, not knowing that much about this wonderful actors long career was real an eye opener.
I had no idea of the colossal amount of work he’d done over his lifetime.
A very good read indeed.
A great biography in 2 parts.
Such amazing and accurate detail that it’s obvious Wyngarde and The author were true soulmates. It’s an insightful, warts and all read which for me, not knowing that much about this wonderful actors long career was real an eye opener.
I had no idea of the colossal amount of work he’d done over his lifetime.
A very good read indeed.
March 27, 2020
I was absolutely delighted to have found this book, and to read so many fascinating facts and interesting background on one of the heroes of my youth, starring in Department S as Jason King. Peter Wyngarde was always loud in his clothes, he was so quick-witted and larger than life in that TV series. But what about the person behind this role?
Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins describes in the first part of the book his home, his parents, WW2 days and his relationship to women like Rosameurde and Dorinda. We then switch to London and his work for TV and the theatre. There are many fine testimonials from the press to underline how well perceived his appearances were. You’ll also find many letters written by Peter himself to give an insightful view into his personality and thinking.
Chapter by Chapter Peter is brought back to life by his astute biographer. You’ll also hear about his ‘relationship’ with Alan Bates and his roles in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ and ‘The Adventures of Ben Gunn’ – two adaptions of classic novels.
Peter was a man with a very long career, so here you get an excellent view on the 20th century from his sphere of influence. The film sets are described in a very detailed way and you will find yourself looking for many a lost DVD gems.
I loved the way the 70s are presented here; so lively, with Peter meeting the Gibb brothers from the Bee Gees in Carnaby Street. You can really see the scene inside your head with Stayin’ Alive playing aloud forming the soundtrack of that age.
Peter also was also an international advertising icon. He did ads for German men’s cosmetic company Tabac: ‘Peter Wyngarde smells… Great! For the man of action (I’m glad that I use those products myself on a daily basis since I was a youth).
After so many heights we read about the downfall of our hero due to a ridiculous episode (no spoilers here, but unimaginable why such a career came into decline after such a petty thing). Tina then describes him playing General Klytus in the ‘Flash Gordon’ movie (another unforgettable role).
She tells us many personal anecdotes about her and Peter. The episode with the DocMartens boots is extremely well done and remains forever saved on my mental hard-disc.
In the second part of this unique biography we get very personal insight into the life and further career of the icon. We see his decline of health, depression, dying family and friends, feuds with neighbours… every chapter starts with a letter from Peter to the author.
The chapters in the second part are very moving and show how deep Tina was in love with her Peter and what an admirable relationship they had over so many years; one is by their side when reading the pages of the book. We accompany Tina until’s Peter’s last day on earth and also come to know how the situation was for Tina after his death. At the end, we have a list of books referenced and recommended for further readings, although I can’t imagine you’d find a more detailed book on Peter than in book ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’.
To bring this long review to a conclusion. You get, in my opinion, one of the most detailed biographies on an actor ever written. No detail is left out- even very personal and some sexual points are spoken about. This is the very big picture. It hits you like Peter himself with his incredible performances and stylish accents.
After this comprehensive book, Peter comes back and lives again since legends never die. Highly recommended!
Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins describes in the first part of the book his home, his parents, WW2 days and his relationship to women like Rosameurde and Dorinda. We then switch to London and his work for TV and the theatre. There are many fine testimonials from the press to underline how well perceived his appearances were. You’ll also find many letters written by Peter himself to give an insightful view into his personality and thinking.
Chapter by Chapter Peter is brought back to life by his astute biographer. You’ll also hear about his ‘relationship’ with Alan Bates and his roles in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ and ‘The Adventures of Ben Gunn’ – two adaptions of classic novels.
Peter was a man with a very long career, so here you get an excellent view on the 20th century from his sphere of influence. The film sets are described in a very detailed way and you will find yourself looking for many a lost DVD gems.
I loved the way the 70s are presented here; so lively, with Peter meeting the Gibb brothers from the Bee Gees in Carnaby Street. You can really see the scene inside your head with Stayin’ Alive playing aloud forming the soundtrack of that age.
Peter also was also an international advertising icon. He did ads for German men’s cosmetic company Tabac: ‘Peter Wyngarde smells… Great! For the man of action (I’m glad that I use those products myself on a daily basis since I was a youth).
After so many heights we read about the downfall of our hero due to a ridiculous episode (no spoilers here, but unimaginable why such a career came into decline after such a petty thing). Tina then describes him playing General Klytus in the ‘Flash Gordon’ movie (another unforgettable role).
She tells us many personal anecdotes about her and Peter. The episode with the DocMartens boots is extremely well done and remains forever saved on my mental hard-disc.
In the second part of this unique biography we get very personal insight into the life and further career of the icon. We see his decline of health, depression, dying family and friends, feuds with neighbours… every chapter starts with a letter from Peter to the author.
The chapters in the second part are very moving and show how deep Tina was in love with her Peter and what an admirable relationship they had over so many years; one is by their side when reading the pages of the book. We accompany Tina until’s Peter’s last day on earth and also come to know how the situation was for Tina after his death. At the end, we have a list of books referenced and recommended for further readings, although I can’t imagine you’d find a more detailed book on Peter than in book ‘A Life Amongst Strangers’.
To bring this long review to a conclusion. You get, in my opinion, one of the most detailed biographies on an actor ever written. No detail is left out- even very personal and some sexual points are spoken about. This is the very big picture. It hits you like Peter himself with his incredible performances and stylish accents.
After this comprehensive book, Peter comes back and lives again since legends never die. Highly recommended!
October 17, 2020
“Few actors transcend their craft to be regarded as enigmas in their own right, but one such individual was the uniquely talented actor Peter Wyngarde, who whilst best remembered for his portrayal of crimebusting author Jason King in the ITC series’ ‘Department S’ and ‘Jason King’, will also be fondly recalled as Number Two in the ‘Prisoner’ episode ‘Checkmate’.
‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ is the first authorised biography of Peter. It is written by Peter’s friend, companion, and organiser of his official fan club, Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins (read the book to find out how she came to take his name). It’s an in-depth, fascinating, and touching portrayal of one of ITC’s best-loved personalities.
The first half of the book is a straight-forward biography of his life and career and the second, a personal memoir of the Author as she describes the years she spent with Peter in an amazingly frank fashion. ‘The Prisoner’ is of course covered, and it’s lovely to read several quotes from Peter about working with the series and Patrick McGoohan. I couldn’t think of a notable appearance of Peter’s during this ‘golden age of TV’ not covered, and it all made for fascinating reading, with countless quotes from Peter, and others.
The research the author has put into the career aspects of the book is quite astonishing. I am by no means an expert on Peter’s life and/or career, so I cannot vouch for the accuracy of each and every statement, but every aspect of his life which is discussed (yes, even those moments are covered!) has obviously been meticulously researched, as there are countless sources and documentation referred to and referenced throughout. If you felt you knew ‘the truth’ about Peter, this will make you think again.
After the look at his early life and career, we move into more recent times, and Tina’s personal story. It was a sad day for fans of classic TV and film when, in January 2018, Peter passed away, far too soon, after a short illness. The news was announced by Peter’s agent, Thomas Bowington, who had been with both Peter and Tina when he drew his last breath, and this event, and the weeks leading up to it, are covered in-depth in the final chapters of the book. I found this last part of the book difficult to read, not because it was bad, but because it was so ‘heartbreaking’ and touching to read, so how it must have been to actually experience the events described I can’t begin to fathom.
The only criticism (although, this could also be seen as a positive, depending on your point of view) is that perhaps the book at times becomes a little too personal, and whilst I trust the author and their sources, perhaps some opinions about some of the folk and events would have been better off not said. But then again, the author did not want a whitewash, or any stone unturned, so in that respect, it is a case of ‘job done’.
As I mentioned above, the research with regards to his career really is phenomenal, and the author has overall done Peter proud and I would thoroughly recommend this book. Do I now have a deeper knowledge of Peter’s career, and greater understanding of how life had shaped how he was? Definitely. Do I feel, having read it, that I know Peter Wyngarde? Probably not, but that’s just the way he would have wanted it.”
‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ is the first authorised biography of Peter. It is written by Peter’s friend, companion, and organiser of his official fan club, Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins (read the book to find out how she came to take his name). It’s an in-depth, fascinating, and touching portrayal of one of ITC’s best-loved personalities.
The first half of the book is a straight-forward biography of his life and career and the second, a personal memoir of the Author as she describes the years she spent with Peter in an amazingly frank fashion. ‘The Prisoner’ is of course covered, and it’s lovely to read several quotes from Peter about working with the series and Patrick McGoohan. I couldn’t think of a notable appearance of Peter’s during this ‘golden age of TV’ not covered, and it all made for fascinating reading, with countless quotes from Peter, and others.
The research the author has put into the career aspects of the book is quite astonishing. I am by no means an expert on Peter’s life and/or career, so I cannot vouch for the accuracy of each and every statement, but every aspect of his life which is discussed (yes, even those moments are covered!) has obviously been meticulously researched, as there are countless sources and documentation referred to and referenced throughout. If you felt you knew ‘the truth’ about Peter, this will make you think again.
After the look at his early life and career, we move into more recent times, and Tina’s personal story. It was a sad day for fans of classic TV and film when, in January 2018, Peter passed away, far too soon, after a short illness. The news was announced by Peter’s agent, Thomas Bowington, who had been with both Peter and Tina when he drew his last breath, and this event, and the weeks leading up to it, are covered in-depth in the final chapters of the book. I found this last part of the book difficult to read, not because it was bad, but because it was so ‘heartbreaking’ and touching to read, so how it must have been to actually experience the events described I can’t begin to fathom.
The only criticism (although, this could also be seen as a positive, depending on your point of view) is that perhaps the book at times becomes a little too personal, and whilst I trust the author and their sources, perhaps some opinions about some of the folk and events would have been better off not said. But then again, the author did not want a whitewash, or any stone unturned, so in that respect, it is a case of ‘job done’.
As I mentioned above, the research with regards to his career really is phenomenal, and the author has overall done Peter proud and I would thoroughly recommend this book. Do I now have a deeper knowledge of Peter’s career, and greater understanding of how life had shaped how he was? Definitely. Do I feel, having read it, that I know Peter Wyngarde? Probably not, but that’s just the way he would have wanted it.”
October 17, 2020
“Few actors transcend their craft to be regarded as enigmas in their own right, but one such individual was the uniquely talented actor Peter Wyngarde, who whilst best remembered for his portrayal of crimebusting author Jason King in the ITC series’ ‘Department S’ and ‘Jason King’, will also be fondly recalled as Number Two in the ‘Prisoner’ episode ‘Checkmate’.
‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ is the first authorised biography of Peter. It is written by Peter’s friend, companion, and organiser of his official fan club, Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins (read the book to find out how she came to take his name). It’s an in-depth, fascinating, and touching portrayal of one of ITC’s best-loved personalities.
The first half of the book is a straight-forward biography of his life and career and the second, a personal memoir of the Author as she describes the years she spent with Peter in an amazingly frank fashion. ‘The Prisoner’ is of course covered, and it’s lovely to read several quotes from Peter about working with the series and Patrick McGoohan. I couldn’t think of a notable appearance of Peter’s during this ‘golden age of TV’ not covered, and it all made for fascinating reading, with countless quotes from Peter, and others.
The research the author has put into the career aspects of the book is quite astonishing. I am by no means an expert on Peter’s life and/or career, so I cannot vouch for the accuracy of each and every statement, but every aspect of his life which is discussed (yes, even those moments are covered!) has obviously been meticulously researched, as there are countless sources and documentation referred to and referenced throughout. If you felt you knew ‘the truth’ about Peter, this will make you think again.
After the look at his early life and career, we move into more recent times, and Tina’s personal story. It was a sad day for fans of classic TV and film when, in January 2018, Peter passed away, far too soon, after a short illness. The news was announced by Peter’s agent, Thomas Bowington, who had been with both Peter and Tina when he drew his last breath, and this event, and the weeks leading up to it, are covered in-depth in the final chapters of the book. I found this last part of the book difficult to read, not because it was bad, but because it was so ‘heartbreaking’ and touching to read, so how it must have been to actually experience the events described I can’t begin to fathom.
The only criticism (although, this could also be seen as a positive, depending on your point of view) is that perhaps the book at times becomes a little too personal, and whilst I trust the author and their sources, perhaps some opinions about some of the folk and events would have been better off not said. But then again, the author did not want a whitewash, or any stone unturned, so in that respect, it is a case of ‘job done’.
As I mentioned above, the research with regards to his career really is phenomenal, and the author has overall done Peter proud and I would thoroughly recommend this book. Do I now have a deeper knowledge of Peter’s career, and greater understanding of how life had shaped how he was? Definitely. Do I feel, having read it, that I know Peter Wyngarde? Probably not, but that’s just the way he would have wanted it.”
‘A Life Amongst Strangers’ is the first authorised biography of Peter. It is written by Peter’s friend, companion, and organiser of his official fan club, Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins (read the book to find out how she came to take his name). It’s an in-depth, fascinating, and touching portrayal of one of ITC’s best-loved personalities.
The first half of the book is a straight-forward biography of his life and career and the second, a personal memoir of the Author as she describes the years she spent with Peter in an amazingly frank fashion. ‘The Prisoner’ is of course covered, and it’s lovely to read several quotes from Peter about working with the series and Patrick McGoohan. I couldn’t think of a notable appearance of Peter’s during this ‘golden age of TV’ not covered, and it all made for fascinating reading, with countless quotes from Peter, and others.
The research the author has put into the career aspects of the book is quite astonishing. I am by no means an expert on Peter’s life and/or career, so I cannot vouch for the accuracy of each and every statement, but every aspect of his life which is discussed (yes, even those moments are covered!) has obviously been meticulously researched, as there are countless sources and documentation referred to and referenced throughout. If you felt you knew ‘the truth’ about Peter, this will make you think again.
After the look at his early life and career, we move into more recent times, and Tina’s personal story. It was a sad day for fans of classic TV and film when, in January 2018, Peter passed away, far too soon, after a short illness. The news was announced by Peter’s agent, Thomas Bowington, who had been with both Peter and Tina when he drew his last breath, and this event, and the weeks leading up to it, are covered in-depth in the final chapters of the book. I found this last part of the book difficult to read, not because it was bad, but because it was so ‘heartbreaking’ and touching to read, so how it must have been to actually experience the events described I can’t begin to fathom.
The only criticism (although, this could also be seen as a positive, depending on your point of view) is that perhaps the book at times becomes a little too personal, and whilst I trust the author and their sources, perhaps some opinions about some of the folk and events would have been better off not said. But then again, the author did not want a whitewash, or any stone unturned, so in that respect, it is a case of ‘job done’.
As I mentioned above, the research with regards to his career really is phenomenal, and the author has overall done Peter proud and I would thoroughly recommend this book. Do I now have a deeper knowledge of Peter’s career, and greater understanding of how life had shaped how he was? Definitely. Do I feel, having read it, that I know Peter Wyngarde? Probably not, but that’s just the way he would have wanted it.”
October 4, 2020
I've read a great number of biograhies and memoirs over the years, and I have to say that this is the best I've ever read by far. The amount of research that has gone into it is utterly phenomenal, and considering this is the first book Ms Wyngarde-Hopkins has ever writen it's a huge achievement.
Further to Tee's earlier review, I believe that the author was abundantly clear in what she had to say about Wyngarde's friendship with Alan Bates. Evidently there wasn't much else to say based on the limited time they spent together. Wyngarde himself was quoted in the book as saying they were but ships passing in the night.
I guess that there is a lot of jealousy where well-known actors and musicians etc. are concerned, especially amongs fans, which is probably where the "obsessed fan" nonsense came from. The detail contained in the book proves beyond any doubt who this woman was to Wyngarde.
I would have no reservations in recommending this book to anyone with a genuine interest in film, theatre and TV history. It is above all else a fitting tribute to a tragically under rated actor. If I could give it more stars I would.
Further to Tee's earlier review, I believe that the author was abundantly clear in what she had to say about Wyngarde's friendship with Alan Bates. Evidently there wasn't much else to say based on the limited time they spent together. Wyngarde himself was quoted in the book as saying they were but ships passing in the night.
I guess that there is a lot of jealousy where well-known actors and musicians etc. are concerned, especially amongs fans, which is probably where the "obsessed fan" nonsense came from. The detail contained in the book proves beyond any doubt who this woman was to Wyngarde.
I would have no reservations in recommending this book to anyone with a genuine interest in film, theatre and TV history. It is above all else a fitting tribute to a tragically under rated actor. If I could give it more stars I would.
April 26, 2021
This is one of the most moving and heartfelt biographies I have ever read . I certainly wasn't prepared to be moved to tears by it by any means , but that's exactly what happened ! The early chapters of the book deal mainly with his professional achievments and accolades , and while there is just a 'sprinkle of spice' due to some revelations of the private man himself , it's the later chapters that truly hit home on an emotional level. I think this is because the author and her subject seem to have shared something quite magical together , and these later chapters reveal not just a famous name , with all the false 'image' and public expectations and misconceptions that come with such a name , but a real Human being . Flawed certainly , but ultimately , a genuine and decent Man. I ended up wishing I had known him myself ! I'm not going to even try to report the final chapters here , I'll just say , unless you're made of stone , be prepared to have tears in your eyes ! Wonderful read !
October 11, 2021
This is a really great biography about Peter Wyngarde. I must admit that apart from enjoying watching him in the TV series Department S and the Jason King TV series, along with a few other episodes from the Saint and The Avengers. That was my limit. I always enjoyed his acting and hearing is great speaking voice. He had a magnetic presence that made you watch him and admire acting presence . This book goes into his early life and brings out many interesting facts about him. and his many other appearances on his stage and screen. The many lies and untruth facts said about him that is really upsetting and very cruel. Tina Wyngarde-Hopkins has written a brilliant easy to read account of Peter's life and times bonding a very close relationship over many years until his final years.
June 5, 2022
I have been a fan of Peter Wyngarde for a long time so I was very much looking forward to reading this book. I have to admit, I struggled to get through it. The author is very clearly passionate about her subject but I felt that she was trying to paint Peter more as a saint than a person. I think in parts she also went into far too much detail which made the book plod in places.
March 6, 2022
I've got to admit that the most I knew about Peter Wyngarde was that he was in Department S, Jason King, an episode of The Avengers, was No 2 in an episode of The Prisoner and was Klytus in the 1980 Flash Gordon film.
I didn't know that at 14 he was put in the Lunghua civilian internment camp in Shanghai when the Japanese seized the city in 1941 or that he had appeared in hundreds of theatre shows and TV series.
I didn't know that during his heyday he was mobbed by screaming fans wherever he went or that he was apparently wrongly convicted of a misdemeanour in Gloucester or that he was hailed as one of the UK's best screen and theatre actors.
Or that he recorded a couple of albums or... Well let's just say after reading this book I learned there was more to Mr Wyngarde, than the flamboyant Mr King. A very enlightening and interesting read.
I didn't know that at 14 he was put in the Lunghua civilian internment camp in Shanghai when the Japanese seized the city in 1941 or that he had appeared in hundreds of theatre shows and TV series.
I didn't know that during his heyday he was mobbed by screaming fans wherever he went or that he was apparently wrongly convicted of a misdemeanour in Gloucester or that he was hailed as one of the UK's best screen and theatre actors.
Or that he recorded a couple of albums or... Well let's just say after reading this book I learned there was more to Mr Wyngarde, than the flamboyant Mr King. A very enlightening and interesting read.
March 22, 2022
Exquisitely detailed and adeptly written, this book is an absolute must for any fan of television, theatre and film..
With a foreword by Flash Gordon himself, Sam J, Jones and afterwords by Joel Fabiani (Stewart Sullivan in Department S) and multi award winning actor and writer, Steven Berkoff, this masterly authored book deserves to take its place alongside the great theatrical and cinematic biographies of Olivier, Richardson, Burton and Gielgud.
If you ever wanted to know who the real Peter Wyngarde was, buy this book. You won't be disappointed. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
With a foreword by Flash Gordon himself, Sam J, Jones and afterwords by Joel Fabiani (Stewart Sullivan in Department S) and multi award winning actor and writer, Steven Berkoff, this masterly authored book deserves to take its place alongside the great theatrical and cinematic biographies of Olivier, Richardson, Burton and Gielgud.
If you ever wanted to know who the real Peter Wyngarde was, buy this book. You won't be disappointed. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
April 21, 2022
I decided to buy the book after reading a review of it in the Hollywood Reporter, which gave it 5 out of 5 stars. I was latterly impressed by the comments of multi award winning actor, director and writer, Steven Berkoff, on the back cover. And he should know what he's talking about. I was not disappointed. A thoroughly absorbing, unputdownable biography about a true character of the theatre and TV.
Well done Ms. Wyngarde-Hopkins and thank you for sharing Peter with the world.
I'd recommend this book to anyone.
Well done Ms. Wyngarde-Hopkins and thank you for sharing Peter with the world.
I'd recommend this book to anyone.
April 24, 2021
Utterly terrific! I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this book. It was diligently researched, and filled with facts and firsthand accounts from many of Peter Wyngarde's friends and colleagues. I cannot recommend this book more highly. Whether you're a fan of Wyngarde or you merely have an interest in British film, theatre and television, you'll not find a better book than this. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
September 2, 2020
As a great fan of the Jason King Series, i thought a Peter Wyngarde biography was longtime coming. I was so excited when it was finally written and available to purchase.
I had heard about the author ( Tina and decade long companion) and word had it she was described as an obsessed fan by other sources, so i was kinda put off by that and kinda concerned it will featured a lot of chapter which demonstrated her OTT obsession, but i still was intigued to learn about Peter's life and was more interested in learning about his relationship with Alan Bates.
Tina did loved Peter and was obessed with Peter , but throughout the book, i could not help becoming frustrated with the confusing relationship she shared with Peter. One minute, she described the two strolled hand -in -hand and having talks of having a child together and then the next their was mention of his close relationship with men. Could he be bisexual but more into women for companionship? The book would constantly demonstrated the huge ego Peter about his sexual conquests which was rather tidious and prehistoric
There begs the question as to Why the two did not have a child together? Tina seems to just leave the subject up in the air with no explanation, yet she had taken on his name? Could it be they two secretly married and had a secret child prior to his death?
There was some awful incidents, like when Peter got knock down , not once but twice and sustained some horrific injuries which later effected him. I wondered why this was not publicisted at the time and news outlets reporting on it... When Alan Bates ( His former lover) was admitted in hospital dying of cancer, i was surprised to learn Peter attended given the fact that Alan described their 8 year relationship as a dark period in his life
Will all that being said , i will give the book a 3 out of 5. As i wish more was mentioned about his relationship with Alan Bates and the author has an annoying tendency to leave to many cliff hangers throughout and to much emphasis put on the fact that Peter was a straight man who had the occasional experiment with men
I hope another book going into detail about Peter's relationship with Alan Bates will be written . That would be a worthwhile
I had heard about the author ( Tina and decade long companion) and word had it she was described as an obsessed fan by other sources, so i was kinda put off by that and kinda concerned it will featured a lot of chapter which demonstrated her OTT obsession, but i still was intigued to learn about Peter's life and was more interested in learning about his relationship with Alan Bates.
Tina did loved Peter and was obessed with Peter , but throughout the book, i could not help becoming frustrated with the confusing relationship she shared with Peter. One minute, she described the two strolled hand -in -hand and having talks of having a child together and then the next their was mention of his close relationship with men. Could he be bisexual but more into women for companionship? The book would constantly demonstrated the huge ego Peter about his sexual conquests which was rather tidious and prehistoric
There begs the question as to Why the two did not have a child together? Tina seems to just leave the subject up in the air with no explanation, yet she had taken on his name? Could it be they two secretly married and had a secret child prior to his death?
There was some awful incidents, like when Peter got knock down , not once but twice and sustained some horrific injuries which later effected him. I wondered why this was not publicisted at the time and news outlets reporting on it... When Alan Bates ( His former lover) was admitted in hospital dying of cancer, i was surprised to learn Peter attended given the fact that Alan described their 8 year relationship as a dark period in his life
Will all that being said , i will give the book a 3 out of 5. As i wish more was mentioned about his relationship with Alan Bates and the author has an annoying tendency to leave to many cliff hangers throughout and to much emphasis put on the fact that Peter was a straight man who had the occasional experiment with men
I hope another book going into detail about Peter's relationship with Alan Bates will be written . That would be a worthwhile
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