SIMON OATESSimon Oates, who died on 20 May, 2009, was a British actor best known for his television roles.
He was among the stars of Doomwatch (1970-72), a BBC series that combined the public’s concern about technology with thriller conventions. In it he played Dr John Ridge, scientist, action hero and ladies man.
He was also notable for coming close to replacing George Lazenby as James Bond in Diamonds are Forever (1971) having successfully screen tested, but Sean Connery returned to the role and Mr Oates then lost out to Roger Moore in future films.
He did make a handful of films, including a feature length version of Doomwatch (1972), but primarily worked in television. He had roles in The Three Musketeers (1966-67), The Mask of Janus (1965), The Avengers (1967/68), The Professionals (1980), Bergerac (1991) and many other shows during his 34-year TV career.
He also worked on the West End as a director and actor, working with the likes of David Jason, Barbara Windsor, Dorothy Squires and Brenda Bruce.
In addition he performed as a stand-up comedian and compère, introducing the likes of Tom Jones, Sandie Shaw and The Who.
In later life he lived and worked in Canada. He retired from acting in the mid ’90s.
He was survived by his second wife, Jaki, and by three children.
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