Peter Sallis

 Have you ever wondered who brought one of Britain’s most beloved animated characters to life?

Peter Sallis was a remarkable English actor whose calm, measured voice became instantly recognizable to millions as Wallace in the Wallace and Gromit series. While he enjoyed a long and varied career on stage and screen, it was his work with Aardman Animations that made him a household name. His portrayal of Wallace was infused with warmth, sincerity, and a distinct northern charm, giving the character a personality that is unforgettable.

Born in Twickenham, Middlesex, Sallis began his career in radio and stage before gradually making his mark on television. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he appeared in dramas and comedies, demonstrating remarkable versatility. He could move effortlessly from period pieces to sitcoms to science fiction, even appearing in an early episode of Doctor Who.

Sallis is perhaps best known for his long-running role as Norman Clegg in the classic British sitcom Last of the Summer Wine. From the show’s beginning in 1973 to its final episode in 2010, he was the only actor to appear in every single series. His gentle, often bemused portrayal of Clegg anchored the series and won him the hearts of generations of viewers.

Even in later years, despite suffering from macular degeneration, Sallis continued to provide Wallace’s voice, ensuring the character remained consistent for audiences. His performances in The Wrong Trousers and A Close Shave earned BAFTA recognition and helped introduce British animation to a global audience.

Peter Sallis passed away in 2017 at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of gentle humor, impeccable timing, and a voice that will continue to bring Wallace to life for years to come. Few actors manage to become iconic in two completely different mediums, but Sallis did so with quiet, enduring grace.