Brian Trueman, a versatile talent in British broadcasting and animation, has passed away at the age of 92. Trueman's career spanned over six decades, encompassing roles as a newsreader, current affairs presenter, scriptwriter, and voice actor.
Trueman began his career at Granada Television in the 1960s, where he worked as a newsreader and presenter for programs such as Scene at 6.30 and Granada Reports. During this time, he interviewed notable figures including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
In 1974, Trueman transitioned to animation, joining Cosgrove Hall Productions, a subsidiary of Thames Television. The studio, housed in an old tobacco factory in Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester, became the birthplace of several iconic animated series.
Trueman's first success came with Chorlton and the Wheelies (1976-78), followed by Jamie and the Magic Torch (1977-79). However, his most significant contribution was to Danger Mouse (1981-92), which at its peak attracted over 7 million viewers.
As the lead writer for Danger Mouse, Trueman infused the series with a unique blend of comic anarchy, drawing inspiration from The Goon Show and Round the Horne. He also provided voices for several characters, including Stiletto, the henchman of the villainous Baron Greenback.
Trueman's versatility was further demonstrated in his work on The Wind in the Willows (1984-88) and Count Duckula (1989-93). For the latter, he conceived the idea of making the vampire duck a vegetarian and voiced the character of Nanny.
"It was just plain barmy, which suits me quite well."
Born on May 16, 1932, in Manchester, Trueman overcame early health challenges and educational setbacks. He began his entertainment career at 14, appearing on BBC Manchester's Children's Hour radio program.
Throughout his career, Trueman continued to work in various media. He adapted Terry Pratchett's Truckers for animation in 1992, wrote for Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock, and even adapted a Plautus play for the Open Air Theatre in Regent's Park.
In his later years, Trueman faced health challenges, including bladder and skin cancer. Despite this, he remained active in the industry, serving as a consultant for the 2015 Danger Mouse reboot.
Trueman's legacy extends beyond his own work. Animators from major studios like Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks have cited Danger Mouse and Count Duckula as influences, cementing Trueman's place in animation history.
Brian Trueman is survived by his wife, Angela Philpot, whom he married in 1961, and their two sons. His contributions to British children's entertainment will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.