Jack Shepherd, beloved for his role as detective Charles Wycliffe, has passed away at 85. The Leeds-born actor died peacefully in hospital after a short illness, his agents confirmed on Tuesday.
TV Detective Leaves a Lasting Legacy
Shepherd became a household name starring as the Cornish detective in ITV’s hit crime series Wycliffe, based on the novels by WJ Burley. The show aired from 1993 to 1998, following Wycliffe as he solved gruesome murders with DI Doug Kersey, played by Jimmy Yuill, and DI Lucy Lane, portrayed by Helen Masters.
A Celebrated Career On Screen and Stage
- Before Wycliffe, Jack’s breakthrough came in the 1970s with the acclaimed drama Bill Brand, earning him a BAFTA nomination for Best Actor in 1977.
- He was a key figure at London’s Royal Court Theatre in his 20s and later captivated audiences at the National Theatre.
- Jack directed Shakespeare’s The Two Gentlemen of Verona at Shakespeare’s Globe in 1996, a production that made it to Broadway.
- He won an Olivier Award in 1983 for the original production of Glengarry Glen Ross.
- Besides acting, Shepherd was a respected playwright and skilled jazz saxophonist and pianist.
Family and Final Tribute
Jack Shepherd is survived by his wife, Ann Scott, and his five children: Jan, Jake, Victoria, Catherine, and Ben.
“It is with great sadness we can confirm that the celebrated actor Jack Shepherd passed away yesterday at the age of 85. He died peacefully in hospital after a short illness. His wife and family were with him,” said a statement from his agents Markham, Froggatt & Irwin.
“Markham, Froggatt & Irwin are very proud and honoured to have been part of Jack’s illustrious career. His passing is a sad loss to us all.”
