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Andrew Burt
Andrew Burt
Andrew Burt
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Andrew Thomas Hutchison Burt (23 May 1945 – 16 November 2018) was a British actor, voiceover artist, and counsellor.

Key Information

Early life and education

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Andrew Burt was born on 23 May 1945 in Wakefield, West Riding of Yorkshire, England, to Hutchison Burt, a psychiatrist, lecturer and Medical Superintendent at Stanley Royd Hospital, Wakefield, and Aileen, a teacher.[1] When Andrew was 8 years old his father died, leaving behind also an older brother, Ian.[1] Burt was educated at Silcoates School in Wakefield. From 1963 to 1965 he performed with Oldbury Rep. He attended Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama until 1968, and left with a bachelor's degree in English, validated by the University of Kent.[2]

Filmography

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Selected Film and TV

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TV series

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Burt appeared in many TV series and soaps, including; Angels, Bergerac, The Bill, Callan, Casualty, Crown Court, Dixon of Dock Green, EastEnders, Heartbeat, Howards' Way, Juliet Bravo, New Tricks, Rock Follies of '77, Rumpole of the Bailey, Spooks, and Tales of the Unexpected.

Comedy work

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Children's TV

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Radio Plays

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Burt was the first actor to play the character of Inspector Morse, starring in Last Bus to Woodstock, in June 1985, on BBC Radio 4.

He appeared regularly in numerous BBC radio plays, including Saturday Night Theatre, The Monday Play, The Afternoon Play, Afternoon Theatre, The Classic Serial, and A Book at Bedtime.

Voice-overs and narration

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Burt was a voice-over artist, and provided voice-overs for numerous TV and radio commercials, documentaries and talking books, spanning five decades.

He narrated books for the blind as a volunteer for the Calibre Audio Library.[1]

For over a decade, Burt was the announcer for ITN's ITV News programmes, including News at Ten.[3]

Counselling career

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In later years, Burt trained in counselling at the Metanoia Institute in Ealing, after which, as an accredited member of the BACP, he worked as a humanistic counsellor at his own practice, ABC Andrew Burt Counselling.[4][2]

Personal life

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Burt had a passion for art and a personal interest in collecting paintings and sculpture. His specific passion was the work of English artist Michael Ayrton.[2]

He was a patron of Oldbury Rep, the theatre company where he began his acting career.[2]

Burt had a continued friendship with Sheila Mercier, his on-screen mother in Emmerdale Farm, which lasted until his death.[5]

Death

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Andrew Burt died of lung cancer on 16 November 2018, aged 73.[2]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Andrew Burt

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Andrew Burt (23 May 1945 – 16 November 2018) was an English actor and artist renowned for portraying the original in the ITV Emmerdale Farm, a role he originated from 1972 to 1974 and briefly reprised in 1976. Over a career spanning five decades, Burt appeared in numerous British television dramas, including leading roles in historical and adventure series, while also establishing himself as a prominent performer for commercials, news, and comedy sketches. In his later years, he transitioned from acting to counseling, focusing on supporting individuals with stress-related conditions until his death from cancer at age 73. Born Andrew Thomas Hutchison Burt in , , he was the son of Hutchison Burt, who died when Andrew was eight, and Aileen (née Young); he had a brother, Ian, and never married or had children. Burt initially worked in before pursuing amateur dramatics, which led him to professional training at of Speech and Drama in and a degree in English at the ; he also attended Silcoates School for his A-levels, including French. Burt's acting career began in repertory theatre, including stints at Perth Theatre, before his breakthrough as the troubled farmer Jack Sugden in the launch of Emmerdale Farm, where he featured in over 100 episodes depicting family dynamics on a Yorkshire farm. Key television highlights followed, such as Lieutenant David Peek in the naval drama Warship (1976–1977), Captain Robert FitzRoy opposite Kenneth More in The Voyage of Charles Darwin (1978), the title role of King Arthur in the BBC miniseries The Legend of King Arthur (1979), the giant traveler in Lilliput (1982, an adaptation of Gulliver's Travels), the Viking warrior Valgard in the Doctor Who serial Terminus (1983), and Chief Inspector Stanislaus Oates in the detective series Campion (1989–1990). He also took on guest roles in popular shows like The Bill, Casualty, and Heartbeat, as well as appearances in Agatha Christie adaptations such as 4:50 from Paddington (1987) as Dr. John Quimper and Poirot: The Affair at the Victory Ball (1991) as James Ackerley. As a voiceover artist, Burt lent his distinctive, authoritative baritone to advertisements for brands like , regional bulletins, and the fictional "Radio " announcer in the comedy (1997–2002), among other projects that showcased his versatility beyond on-screen work. An avid collector of paintings and sculptures by Michael Ayrton, Burt retired from acting in the 2000s to pursue counseling, deriving significant personal fulfillment from aiding clients with challenges.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Andrew Thomas Hutchison Burt was born on 23 May 1945 in , , . He was the son of Aileen (née Young) and Hutchison Burt, a who died when Andrew was eight years old. Burt grew up alongside his brother, . Burt attended Silcoates School in , where he completed his secondary education and earned A-levels, including in French.

Academic and dramatic training

After leaving school, Burt worked at an engineering company in Birmingham, where he intended to train as a representative abroad. However, involvement in amateur dramatics with the Oldbury Rep inspired him to pursue a in acting. Burt then pursued formal dramatic training at the of Drama in , . He subsequently earned a BA degree in English at the .

Acting career

Television roles

Andrew Burt's breakthrough came with the role of in the Emmerdale Farm, which he originated from 1972 to 1974 and reprised briefly in 1976 across over 100 episodes. As the estranged, literary-minded son of farmer Annie Sugden, Burt portrayed Jack as a complex anti-hero who returned to the family farm after his father's death, clashing with his brother Joe over management and inheritance while grappling with personal demons and a cynical worldview that added depth to the character's arc. This performance was praised for its realism and earnestness in an afternoon context, contributing significantly to the show's early success by grounding its rural drama in authentic family tensions. Burt left the role in 1974 to pursue but returned temporarily before being replaced by . He appeared in the medical drama series Angels in 1983. Other notable television roles included Lieutenant David Peek in the naval drama Warship (1976–1977), Captain Robert FitzRoy in The Voyage of Charles Darwin (1978), and the giant traveler in Lilliput (1982, an adaptation of Gulliver's Travels). Throughout the 1980s, Burt took on notable guest spots in genre and crime series, showcasing his versatility in supporting roles. In (1980), he played Ven Jarvik, an unorthodox Federation officer who captures the Liberator near the planet , bringing a bully-like intensity to the antagonist. He appeared as Valgard, a challenging slave worker, in the serial Terminus (1983). Other guest appearances included episodes of Bergerac in 1985 and 1990, where he portrayed John McKennan and Harry in the Jersey-based detective series. He also had guest roles in popular shows like , Casualty, and Heartbeat, as well as appearances in Agatha Christie adaptations such as 4:50 from Paddington (1987) as Dr. John Quimper and Poirot: The Affair at the Victory Ball (1991) as James Ackerley. In the 1990s, Burt continued with character-driven dramas, including a two-episode stint as Chief Superintendent Dave Penton in (1990), investigating local matters in . He had a recurring role as Stanislaus Oates in the mystery series Campion (1989–1990), serving as the police ally to the titular detective across multiple episodes and providing a steadfast, authoritative presence. Additionally, he contributed to the BBC's adaptation of (1986) as a member of the Chorus in , emphasizing the ensemble's role in narrating the tragic fate of Oedipus. He starred as the title role of in the BBC miniseries The Legend of King Arthur (1979). Burt's television work often favored nuanced supporting characters in dramas over starring leads, frequently casting him as authority figures in soaps, sci-fi, and mysteries, reflecting his training at in handling demanding ensemble dynamics.

Film and stage appearances

Andrew Burt's early career was rooted in theatre, where he built a strong foundation through extensive repertory work following his training at of Drama. He performed in various regional productions across . Burt's stage experience extended to classical works, though specific Shakespearean credits in live theatre remain limited in documentation; however, his repertory background in Perth and other English venues honed his skills in live performance, emphasizing ensemble dynamics and character depth. Burt's preference for as his primary medium underscored his commitment to theatre during the 1970s, where he took on supporting roles in fringe and regional tours that allowed for intimate, naturalistic portrayals. In film, Burt's appearances were more selective, focusing on British productions of the 1970s and 1980s. He portrayed Lesley's brother in the 1977 crime thriller The Black Panther, a role that depicted the family impact of a real-life kidnapping case, adding emotional weight to the narrative alongside stars like . This minor but pivotal part highlighted Burt's ability to convey quiet intensity in supporting capacities within gritty, character-driven stories. Other minor film roles in period and dramatic features during this era further demonstrated his transition from to screen, where the immediacy of live informed his understated screen presence.

Radio and comedy contributions

Burt's radio career began notably with his portrayal of the titular detective in the adaptation of Colin Dexter's , first broadcast on 15 June 1985 as part of the Saturday Night Theatre strand. Dramatised by Melville Jones and directed by Brian Miller, the production featured Burt opposite Christopher Douglas as Sergeant Lewis, marking the character's audio debut two years before the television series. Adapting the novel's intricate plot and Morse's intellectual monologues to a purely auditory format presented challenges in conveying the story's setting and psychological depth without visual cues, relying instead on and vocal nuance to evoke the novel's moral ambiguity. Throughout the and , Burt contributed to various dramas, including original plays and adaptations broadcast on Radio 4. Representative examples include his role as Detective Constable Kilburn in a 1985 drama and appearances in the Monday Play series, such as Burdalane in 2000, where he tackled diverse characters in contemporary and literary works. These performances highlighted his versatility in audio storytelling, often involving ensemble casts to bring complex narratives to life. In comedy, Burt showcased a dry, understated wit through voice work and character roles. He provided the voice of the Radio Norwich announcer across both series of the sitcom (1997–2002), delivering deadpan station ident lines that underscored the show's satirical take on broadcasting. Additionally, he appeared onscreen as the hapless executive Frank Raphael in the second series episode "The Talented Mr. Alan" (2002), contributing to the series' awkward humor. Burt also featured in on Harry Enfield's Television Programme (1992), where his precise timing amplified the program's observational sketches.

Voice-over and narration work

Broadcast narration

Andrew Burt served as the announcer for ITN's ITV News at Ten for over a decade during the and , introducing bulletins with a resonant, authoritative voice that conveyed reliability and gravitas. His tenure, spanning key periods of the program's evolution, established him as a familiar and trusted figure in British evening news, where his measured delivery set the tone for major stories. Burt's narration extended to factual programming on and ITV, where he lent his vocal clarity to documentaries exploring scientific and historical themes. Notable examples include his work on episodes of the BBC's Horizon series, such as "The Sharpest Show of the " (1990), which examined advancements in astronomy, and "Here Be Monsters" (1992), exploring the evolution of in the universe. These contributions showcased his ability to articulate intricate concepts with precision and engagement, enhancing the educational impact of the programs. His radio experience provided a foundational for such off-screen narration. In the 2000s, Burt contributed to talking books as a volunteer narrator for the Calibre Audio Library, producing accessible audio versions for visually impaired listeners. Among the titles he narrated were Agatha Christie's festive mystery set on and Joan Aiken's "The Wolves of Willoughby Chase," the second installment in her . His recordings emphasized rhythmic pacing and expressive intonation, earning recognition for their immersive quality in educational and literary audio formats.

Commercials and audiobooks

Andrew Burt's distinctive voice made him a sought-after talent for television and radio advertisements throughout the and , where he lent his authoritative tones to numerous campaigns for major brands. Notable examples include bleach ads featuring the line "Domestos Germguard cleans deep into the bowl," highlighting product efficacy in household cleaning. These voice-overs not only boosted brand recognition but also provided Burt with a reliable stream during periods of fluctuating opportunities. In addition to commercials, Burt extended his narration skills to audiobooks and talking books, contributing to literary accessibility for diverse audiences. He narrated the adapted audiobook version of Charles Dickens's for the Bookworms Library in 2010, a 2-hour 54-minute production aimed at learners, which received positive feedback for its clear and engaging delivery. This work underscored his versatility in audio production and its role as a creative outlet beyond on-screen roles.

Counselling career

Training and qualifications

In his later years, following a distinguished career in spanning over four decades, Andrew Burt decided to retrain as a counsellor, seeking new challenges beyond performance. Burt pursued his training at the Metanoia Institute in , , a renowned centre for humanistic and education. There, he trained as a humanistic counsellor. Upon completion, Burt became an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), the leading professional body for counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK, which upholds standards of ethical practice and competence. His accreditation enabled him to establish a private practice focused on supporting individuals with stress-related conditions.

Professional practice and impact

Following his training at the Metanoia Institute, Andrew Burt established a private counseling practice in during the 2000s, specializing in humanistic therapy. As an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), he operated ABC Andrew Burt Counselling in Acton, offering support to clients with stress-related conditions. Burt focused on helping individuals with stress-related illnesses.

Personal life and legacy

Interests and relationships

Burt developed a deep passion for throughout his life, particularly the works of English artist Michael Ayrton, whose paintings and sculptures he avidly collected, amassing the largest of works by the artist since the 1990s. His collecting extended to other notable modern artists, including John Minton and , reflecting a discerning eye for post-war British creativity. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Burt maintained strong ties to his theatrical origins as a patron of Oldbury Rep, the company in , where he had begun his acting journey in the 1960s; the company mourned his passing as that of a dedicated supporter. This patronage underscored his lifelong commitment to nurturing emerging talent in regional theatre. Burt remained unmarried and had no children, finding close familial bonds with his brother, , who survived him. His roots, stemming from a childhood in , subtly shaped his appreciation for the arts and rural life. In his later years, following retirement from acting, Burt reflected on a profound sense of fulfillment in his shift to counselling, where he derived personal satisfaction from aiding individuals with stress-related conditions.

Death and tributes

Andrew Burt was diagnosed with and died on 16 November 2018 at the age of 73. Following his death, obituaries in major publications highlighted his contributions to British television and voice work. The Telegraph described him as a key original cast member of Farm, noting his portrayal of the complex character across more than 100 episodes from 1972 to 1976. Similarly, paid tribute to his versatile career, emphasizing his later success as a artist in productions like and bulletins. Tributes from colleagues underscored Burt's impact on the industry. creator Kevin Laffan recalled Burt's nuanced performance, stating, "He had a kind of half-amused way of looking at things. It was essential for Jack to have a cynical outlook." Peers in the acting and voice-over fields expressed admiration for his professional dedication and warmth, with widespread recognition of his shift to counselling in later years as a meaningful extension of his empathetic on-screen presence. Burt's legacy endures through his iconic role as , which helped establish Emmerdale as a cornerstone of British storytelling, influencing generations of rural drama portrayals. His work set standards for in and , while his counselling practice, focused on stress-related issues, reflected a broader influence on supporting performers' well-being in .

References

  1. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituaries/2018/11/28/andrew-burt-actor-original-jack-sugden-emmerdale-farm-became/
  2. https://www.heraldscotland.com/opinion/17268318.obituary-andrew-burt-actor-star-emmerdale-farm/
  3. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0123404/bio/
  4. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0513025/
  5. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0513028/
  6. https://blakes7.fandom.com/wiki/Ven_Jarvik
  7. https://tardis.wiki/wiki/Andrew_Burt
  8. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075764/fullcredits/
  9. https://eastenders.fandom.com/wiki/Dave_Penton
  10. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094430/characters/nm0123404
  11. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0404196/
  12. https://catalogue.bruford.ac.uk/in-memoriam
  13. https://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/search/1220/20?q=Saturday%2Bnight%2Btheatre&svc=9371569
  14. https://entertainment-focus.com/2025/11/10/review-colin-dexter-inspector-morse-last-bus-to-woodstock-bbc-radio-dramatisation/
  15. https://suttonelms.org.uk/r4-plays-1985.html
  16. https://genome.ch.bbc.co.uk/b42c9b4a754b44658a2273c206d3926d
  17. https://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/partridge/credits_new.shtml
  18. https://www.comedy.co.uk/people/andrew_burt/
  19. https://www.tvforum.co.uk/requests/itv-news-45091
  20. https://www.facebook.com/FeatherstoneOldSchoolDays/posts/wakefield-born-celebrity-andrew-burt-from-yorkshire-boy-to-versatile-performeran/1167803454680368/
  21. https://www.facebook.com/groups/136139883130668/posts/2174159419328694/
  22. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2373295/
  23. https://catalog.library.tamu.edu/Record/in00005557178
  24. https://a.storyblok.com/f/150652/x/082845896e/november-22-key-stage-2-catalogue.pdf
  25. https://www.amazon.com/David-Copperfield-audiobook/dp/B004HFLMTC
  26. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/203625778/andrew-thomas_hutchison-burt
  27. https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/the-swan-at-tetsworth/catalogue-id-srsw10084
  28. https://www.theswan.co.uk/news-views/article/announcing-an-important-oneday-single-owner-sale
  29. https://www.pressreader.com/uk/black-country-bugle/20181219/281517932223165
  30. https://www.heart.co.uk/showbiz/tv-movies/emmerdale/why-andrew-burt-leave-jack-sugden/
  31. https://www.thestage.co.uk/obituaries--archive/obituaries/obituary-andrew-burt--actor-and-voice-over-artist-who-starred-in-emmerdale-and-im-alan-partridge
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