Biography
James Hayter (23 April 1907 – 27 March 1983) was a British actor of film and television. Born in Lonavala, India, he was brought up in Scotland and attended Dollar Academy before training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. His film career began in 1936 but was interrupted by service in the Royal Armoured Corps during the Second World War.
He is best remembered for his roles as Friar Tuck in The Story of Robin Hood and His Merrie Men (1952) and Samuel Pickwick in The Pickwick Papers (1952). Hayter appeared as Mr. Tebbs in the BBC sitcom Are You Being Served? (1978). He was the original narrator of the UK television advertisements for Mr. Kipling cakes; these led to his departure from the series after one season. His other credits include Oliver! (1968) as Mr. Jessop and the early sitcom Pinwright's Progress (1946).
