The voice behind one of the world’s most familiar voices has died aged 99. British actor David Graham provided the voices for characters in TV series including Peppa Pig, Thunderbirds and Doctor Who.
For today’s generation of children, his voice will be instantly familiar as that of Grandpa Pig, in the Peppa Pig series. Previously, for nearly two decades he created the sound of the evil Daleks in the long-running sci-fi show Doctor Who – adopting a staccato style and then feeding his voice through a synthesiser.
And previously, he lent his dulcet tones to Lady Penelope’s butler and chauffeur Parker, in Gerry Anderson’s Thunderbirds TV series and films. The BBC reports that he also played the show’s pilot Gordon Tracy, and Brains the engineer, between 1965 and 1966. In 2015, Graham became the only original cast member to return for an ITV remake of the show.
At the time of the new show, Graham told The Mirror newspaper he had been inspired for the voice of Parker by a lunch meeting with a waiter who had been a former royal butler. “He said, ‘Would you like to see the wine list sir?’ and that was the birth of Parker.”
“Just a few weeks ago, I was with 2,000 Anderson fans at a Gerry Anderson concert in Birmingham where we sang him happy birthday – such a joyous occasion. And now, just a few weeks later, he’s left us.
“From the Daleks to Grandpa Pig and numerous voices for Anderson shows including Brains, Gordon Tracy and the iconic Parker. He will be sorely missed.”
A Legacy of Iconic Voices
David Graham’s career was a testament to the power of voice acting. His ability to create distinct and memorable characters brought joy to generations of viewers. He was a true master of his craft, and his contributions to the world of entertainment will be remembered for years to come.
The Inspiration Behind Parker's Voice
In a 2019 appearance on Good Morning Britain, Graham revealed that his inspiration for the voice of Aloysius Parker came from an unlikely place - the pub. He explained that during a shoot for a TV film, Gerry Anderson, the creator of Thunderbirds, was hoping to make children's films. Graham, who was known for his range of voices, said he was willing to contribute.
Anderson took him to a pub where a waiter, a former royal butler, approached them and said, “Would you like to see the wine list, sir?” Graham described that moment as the birth of Parker’s voice, which he later enriched.
More Than Just a Voice Actor
Graham's talent was not confined to voice acting. He had a successful career in theatre, appearing in productions at the National Theatre with the esteemed Laurence Olivier. He also had roles in a variety of British television series, including Doctor Who, Coronation Street, and Casualty.
A Lasting Impression
David Graham left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His iconic voices, from the menacing Daleks to the lovable Grandpa Pig, will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. His legacy is a reminder of the power of voice acting to bring characters to life and captivate the imagination.
Graham’s contributions to the industry were recognized by fans and colleagues alike. Tributes poured in from across the globe, celebrating his life and work.
David Graham’s passing is a loss for the entertainment industry, but his voice will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved his work. His iconic characters will continue to entertain and inspire new generations of fans for years to come.
