Barry Foster (actor)

Barry Foster (31 August 1931 – 11 February 2002) was an English actor who had a prolific career spanning film, television, and theatre. He is best remembered for his television roles, particularly as the suave and menacing Dutch detective Piet van der Valk in the long-running ITV series Van der Valk, a role he played from 1972 to 1977, and then again in 1991 and 1992.

Born in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, Foster trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London. He began his career in repertory theatre before making his film debut in The Battle of Britain (1969).

Foster appeared in a wide range of films, often portraying complex and sometimes villainous characters. Notable film credits include Twisted Nerve (1968), Robbery (1967), Inspector Clouseau (1968), Ryan's Daughter (1970), Frenzy (1972) directed by Alfred Hitchcock, and Sweeney 2 (1978).

In addition to Van der Valk, Foster made numerous appearances in British television dramas and series. He was known for his distinctive voice and commanding screen presence. His television credits include The Troubleshooters, The Duchess of Duke Street, Minder, All Creatures Great and Small, Inspector Morse, and Silent Witness.

Foster was married twice. His first marriage was to Judith Shergold, and his second to Diana Weston. He had three children. Barry Foster died of a heart attack in Guildford, Surrey, at the age of 70.