Wycliffe Star Jack Shepherd Dies at 85 After Short Illness
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of acclaimed actor Jack Shepherd, who has died at the age of 85. The Leeds-born performer, best known for his role as Detective Superintendent Charles Wycliffe in the popular ITV series, passed away following what his family described as a 'short illness'.
A Celebrated Career in Television and Theatre
Shepherd's portrayal of the meticulous Cornish detective in Wycliffe made him a household name across Britain. The drama, which aired from 1993 to 1998, was based on the novels by W J Burley and featured the striking landscapes of Cornwall as its backdrop.
In the series, Shepherd's character led an investigative team that included DI Doug Kersey, played by Scottish actor Jimmy Yuill, and DI Lucy Lane, portrayed by Helen Masters. The show followed their efforts to solve serious crimes across the Cornish coastline.
A statement from Shepherd's agents at Markham, Froggatt & Irwin confirmed: '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.'
From Leeds to National Acclaim
Shepherd's journey to acting prominence began in Leeds, where he attended school before winning a scholarship to Newcastle University to study fine art. His passion for performance later took him to London, where he trained at The Central School for Speech and Drama.
His breakthrough television role came in the 1970s when he was cast as rebellious Labour MP Bill Brand in the ITV series of the same name. The Trevor Griffiths-created programme earned Shepherd a BAFTA nomination for best actor in 1977, cementing his status as one of Britain's most promising performers.
Beyond television, Shepherd enjoyed a diverse career that spanned film, theatre, and even music. He appeared in the 2007 fantasy film The Golden Compass alongside Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman, and directed The Two Gentlemen of Verona at Shakespeare's Globe in 1996 before the production moved to Broadway.
His theatrical achievements were particularly notable, including winning an Olivier Award for the original production of Glengarry Glen Ross in 1983. Shepherd frequently collaborated with director Bill Bryden on numerous theatre productions and was also an accomplished playwright, saxophonist, and jazz pianist.
Legacy and Surviving Family
Shepherd's agents described feeling 'very proud and honoured to have been part of Jack's illustrious career' and noted that his passing represents 'a sad loss to us all.'
The actor is survived by his wife Ann Scott and their five children: Jan, Jake, Victoria, Catherine and Ben. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, and celebrated artist whose contributions to British television and theatre will be remembered for generations to come.
