Simon MacCorkindale was a British actor, director, and producer best known for his roles in television series like Manimal and Falcon Crest, as well as for his long-standing career in theater and film. With his good looks, distinctive voice, and commanding on-screen presence, MacCorkindale became a household name in the 1980s. His ability to tackle a wide range of roles—from action-packed heroics to intense drama—made him one of the most versatile actors of his generation. Beyond his work on screen, MacCorkindale also made significant contributions behind the camera as a director and producer, carving out a multifaceted career that spanned over four decades.

Born Simon Charles Pendered MacCorkindale on February 12, 1952, in Ely, Cambridgeshire, England, MacCorkindale grew up with aspirations of becoming a pilot. However, due to poor eyesight, he had to abandon that dream and instead turned his focus to acting, where he found tremendous success.

Early Life and Education

Simon MacCorkindale grew up in a family that valued discipline and tradition, with his father, Peter MacCorkindale, serving as an officer in the Royal Air Force. This upbringing fostered a strong sense of responsibility and determination in young Simon, traits that would later shape his career. Although he initially planned to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in aviation, a diagnosis of deteriorating vision in his teenage years forced him to rethink his future.

Instead of becoming a pilot, MacCorkindale turned his focus to acting. After completing his education at Haileybury and Imperial Service College, he enrolled at the Theatre of Arts in London to hone his craft. MacCorkindale’s time studying theater proved to be a pivotal period in his life, as it was here that he discovered his love for the stage and his natural ability as a performer.

Early Career in Theater and Film

After graduating from the Theatre of Arts, Simon MacCorkindale began his acting career on the London stage, where he quickly gained recognition for his talent. His first major break came in 1973 when he was cast in a West End production of Pygmalion, the classic play by George Bernard Shaw. His performance in Pygmalion showcased his sophisticated, aristocratic demeanor, a quality that would become a defining characteristic of many of his future roles.

MacCorkindale’s stage success opened the door to opportunities in television and film. His early screen career began with guest appearances on British television series such as Hawkeye, the Pathfinder and I, Claudius, where he showcased his range as an actor. His first major film role came in 1978 when he was cast in Death on the Nile, a film adaptation of the Agatha Christie novel. Playing the role of Simon Doyle, MacCorkindale held his own among an ensemble cast of well-known actors, including Peter Ustinov and Bette Davis. The film was a box-office success and introduced MacCorkindale to international audiences.

Hollywood Success: Manimal and Falcon Crest

Simon MacCorkindale’s transition to Hollywood came in the early 1980s, where he quickly gained attention for his refined, elegant persona, which set him apart in the American television landscape. His most iconic role came in 1983 when he starred as Dr. Jonathan Chase in the NBC series Manimal. Created by Donald R. Boyle and Glen A. Larson, Manimal followed the adventures of a wealthy, mysterious doctor who could transform into various animals to fight crime.

Although Manimal was short-lived, airing only eight episodes, it gained a cult following due to its unique premise and special effects, particularly the transformation scenes where Chase would morph into creatures like a panther or a hawk. MacCorkindale’s portrayal of Dr. Chase was charismatic and intense, and his performance left a lasting impression on fans of the genre. Manimal remains a beloved piece of 1980s television, remembered for its ambition and MacCorkindale’s committed portrayal of the shape-shifting hero.

Following Manimal, MacCorkindale took on another notable television role in the popular prime-time soap opera Falcon Crest. He joined the cast in 1984 as Greg Reardon, a lawyer involved in the intricate and scandalous dealings of the Channing family, who owned a large winery in California’s Napa Valley. Falcon Crest was one of the most popular shows of the decade, and MacCorkindale’s performance as the smooth-talking, morally ambiguous Greg added depth to the show’s ensemble cast. His time on Falcon Crest further cemented his status as a leading man in 1980s television.

Diversifying His Career: Producer and Director

While Simon MacCorkindale enjoyed significant success as an actor, he was equally passionate about exploring roles behind the camera. In the mid-1980s, he began working as a producer and director, expanding his influence in the entertainment industry. MacCorkindale founded his own production company, Amy International, through which he produced a number of television films and series.

One of MacCorkindale’s most notable production efforts came with the British television film Stealing Heaven (1988), in which he also starred. The film, based on the real-life love affair between French philosopher Peter Abelard and his student Héloïse, was a historical drama that allowed MacCorkindale to showcase his range as both a producer and an actor. His work on Stealing Heaven demonstrated his ability to handle complex, period-specific material with care and intelligence.

In addition to producing, MacCorkindale directed several television projects, including episodes of the BBC medical drama Casualty. His experience in front of the camera helped him transition smoothly into directing, as he had a strong understanding of the mechanics of performance and storytelling. MacCorkindale’s directing career, though not as high-profile as his acting work, allowed him to further develop his creative voice and leave his mark on the industry from multiple angles.

Later Career: Casualty and Final Years

Simon MacCorkindale’s later career saw him return to British television, where he became a regular cast member on the long-running medical drama Casualty. From 2002 to 2008, MacCorkindale played Harry Harper, a consultant and later clinical lead in the Accident and Emergency Department. His portrayal of the dedicated yet flawed doctor was well-received by both audiences and critics, and he became a central figure in the show during his six-year run.

His role on Casualty allowed MacCorkindale to showcase his dramatic talents, and it marked a successful return to British television after years of working primarily in the U.S. During this time, he also continued to appear in other British productions, including guest roles in shows like New Tricks and Doctors.

Despite his successful career, MacCorkindale faced personal challenges in his later years. In 2006, he was diagnosed with bowel cancer, which later spread to his lungs. Though his health struggles forced him to reduce his workload, MacCorkindale remained active in the industry, continuing to act and produce when his health allowed. His resilience and dedication to his craft during this difficult period were a testament to his professionalism and passion for storytelling.

Simon MacCorkindale passed away on October 14, 2010, at the age of 58. His death was a significant loss to the entertainment world, but his legacy as an actor, director, and producer continues to live on through the many projects he contributed to over the course of his career.

Legacy and Impact

Simon MacCorkindale’s career was marked by his ability to adapt to a wide range of roles, from heroic characters like Dr. Jonathan Chase in Manimal to the morally complex figures he portrayed in Falcon Crest and Casualty. His distinctive style, combined with his innate elegance and poise, made him a standout in both British and American television. While his work in front of the camera remains his most visible contribution, his efforts behind the scenes as a producer and director showcased his broader creative vision.

Through his work on stage, screen, and in production, MacCorkindale left a lasting impact on the industry. His contributions to cult television series, British dramas, and historical films have earned him a loyal fan base and a well-deserved place in the history of television and film.