BBC EastEnders star has 'no regrets' over divisive 1970s sitcom Love Thy Neighbour
EastEnders star Rudolph Walker has played Patrick Trueman on the soap for 23 years and is just about to release a tell-all autobiography.
Rudolph Walker has become one of the most recognised faces in soap history after playing Patrick Trueman on EastEnders for over two decades. The BBC star, 85, first started out on TV back in 1972 after starring in Love Thy Neighbour which catapulted him to fame.
However, the show has faced serious backlash over its poor handling of issues of racism. But Rudolph has shared that he has no regrets over his time on the show.
Love Thy Neighbour was a sitcom that explored the culture clash and constant bickering between bigoted working-class trade unionist Eddie (Jack Smethurst) and his black neighbour Bill who was played by Rudolph. Their wives constantly acted as referees between them after the show focused on their banter
Some viewers at the time did take offence and noted some of the slurs but, mostly, it was seen as the comedy it was during the era.
It was broadcast on ITV from April 1972 until January 1976, spanning eight series, and 53 episodes.
The actor is set to release an autobiography later this week opening up about his compelling life in showbiz.
Rudolph’s book explores his upbringing and childhood in Trinidad, and what was often a challenging relationship with his mother.
He revealed that back in his hometown the streets became empty whenever the show was transmitted as they were delighted Rudolph had become a household name.
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In an extract, Rudolph confessed that he was “proud and delighted” that he was chosen to star in Love Thy Neighbour, despite the backlash it later received.
He said: “I played the part with all the dignity I could muster, and it made my name, for which I’m grateful. Many feel it is one of those roles I might wish not to acknowledge, but it was a big stepping stone for me and although I can respect – and share – other views today, at the time it was a great opportunity,” he added.
He also claimed that he once spent two years in destitution and was homeless, concealing the agony from both his co-stars and offspring.
The soap icon confessed he once broke down in tears when he made his way to work at the infamous Elstree set.
His rough period began following a gruelling divorce from his second wife, Dounne Alexander MBE, whom he wed in 1998.
