Welcome back to My 70s TV Childhood.
In this episode, we pay tribute to the late Brian Murphy, best known as the weary, grumpy, yet oddly lovable landlord George Roper from Man About the House and George and Mildred. Murphy, who sadly passed away at the age of 92, had a remarkable career spanning theatre, film, and television. We explore his early days performing for local children, his time with Joan Littlewood’s Theatre Workshop, and the journey that led him to become one of Britain’s most recognisable sitcom figures.
We’ll reminisce about his partnership with the brilliant Yootha Joyce, the cultural impact of George and Mildred, and how George Roper became the quintessential ‘henpecked husband’ of 70s television. Brian Murphy’s portrayal of George was a masterclass in comedic timing—his exaggerated sighs, baffled expressions, and reluctance to do anything remotely energetic made him a character both frustrating and endearing. The dynamic between George and Mildred reflected the social tensions of the era, with Mildred’s aspirations clashing against George’s stubborn resistance to change. It’s a formula that still holds up today, decades after its original airing.
While George Roper may have been Murphy’s most famous role, his career extended far beyond the confines of sitcoms. Following the success of George and Mildred, he continued to work across theatre and television, with memorable roles in Last of the Summer Wine and One Foot in the Grave. Even as he aged, Murphy remained a working actor, dedicated to his craft and beloved by audiences who had grown up watching him.
Were you a Man About the House or George and Mildred fan? Do you share my feelings about Tristram?
Oliver
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