Christopher Benjamin: Celebrated Actor and Member of Warminster’s Macdonald Boys

Christopher Benjamin, who has passed away aged 90, was a gifted character actor whose career spanned over six decades on stage, screen, and radio. Known for his ability to balance subtlety with theatrical exuberance, his performances of Shakespearean clowns and bonhomous aristocrats left an enduring legacy in the world of drama.

A proud alumni of Warminster School, formerly Lord Weymouth's Grammer School, Christopher was a key member of the Macdonald Boys', a group of distinguished former pupils who return annually to the school for lunch. During his time at Warminster, he excelled as a prefect, played in the First XI cricket team, and participated in every school play. His passion for theatre was nurtured by a teacher, Mrs. Macdonald (Headmaster Ian Macdonald's wife), whose encouragement and financial support allowed him to pursue his studies at RADA.

Born Christopher John Benjamin on December 27, 1934, in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, Christopher grew up in a musical household, as his father owned a shop selling instruments. His theatrical journey began at Warminster, where his talent was quickly recognised. Though his parents initially opposed a career in acting, Mrs. Macdonald’s guidance and determination helped secure his place at drama school, shaping the remarkable career that followed.

Christopher spent the early years of his career in repertory theatre, before joining the Bristol Old Vic and, later, the Royal Shakespeare Company. He became best known for his portrayal of Vincent Crummles in the RSC’s Nicholas Nickleby (1980), earning praise for his ability to bring depth and intelligence to the larger-than-life role of the hack actor-manager. He also excelled as Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a role he played for multiple companies, and as Falstaff in The Merry Wives of Windsor at the Globe Theatre in 2008.

His connection to Warminster remained strong throughout his life, as evidenced by his continued support of the school and his fond memories of cricket and theatre during his formative years.

In addition to his theatrical work, Christopher became a familiar face on television, appearing in iconic series such as The Forsyte Saga, Pride and Prejudice, and Doctor Who. His portrayal of Henry Gordon Jago in the 1977 Doctor Who serial The Talons of Weng-Chiang became one of his most beloved roles, leading to a revival of the character in the audio drama series Jago and Litefoot from 2010 to 2021.

On radio, Christopher’s talent shone through his Dickensian roles, including an unctuous Mr. Pecksniff in Martin Chuzzlewit, and as the smooth Intelligence officer Henry Colvile in The House and Colvile and Soames. He also lent his voice to the animated film The Plague Dogs (1982), voicing a Labrador opposite John Hurt’s fox terrier.

Christopher Benjamin was also a lifelong cricket enthusiast who often joined local matches while on tour. He married actress Anna Fox in 1960, and together they had three children. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable career but also for his warm, engaging presence and enduring connection to Warminster School.

Christopher Benjamin, born December 27, 1934, died January 10, 2025.