Charles Gray (actor)

Charles Gray (29 August 1928 – 7 March 2000) was an English actor known for his distinctive voice and portrayal of sophisticated, often villainous, characters.

Gray initially trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). His early stage work included appearances in various repertory companies.

He gained prominence through his roles in film and television. Some of his most notable film appearances include Dikko Henderson in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice (1967) and Ernst Stavro Blofeld, also in a James Bond film, Diamonds Are Forever (1971), making him one of the few actors to play both a Bond ally and a Bond villain. He also played Mycroft Holmes in The Seven-Per-Cent Solution (1976) and appeared in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) as the Narrator/Criminologist.

Gray’s television work encompassed a wide range of genres, including appearances in The Avengers, The Professionals, The Sweeney, and Sherlock Holmes with Jeremy Brett. He also played the role of Judge in the BBC adaptation of Alice in Wonderland.

Gray’s performances were marked by a refined and often menacing presence. His ability to convey intelligence and a subtle sense of menace made him a sought-after character actor. He died in London in 2000.