Introduction
Richard Beckinsale was a British actor who rose to fame in the 1970s. He was known for his roles in popular TV shows such as “Porridge” and “Rising Damp.” However, his career was cut short when he died at the young age of 31. In this blog post, we will explore the cause of Richard Beckinsale’s death, his funeral, and his connection to Burma.
Cause of Death
Richard Beckinsale died on March 19, 1979, due to a heart attack. He had been suffering from a rare heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes the walls of the heart to thicken, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. Despite his condition, Richard continued to work and even performed in a play the night before his death. His sudden passing shocked the entertainment industry and his fans.
Richard Beckinsale’s Health Condition
Richard Beckinsale’s heart condition was first diagnosed when he was 16 years old. He was advised to avoid strenuous activities, but he continued to pursue his passion for acting. His condition worsened over the years, and he had to undergo surgery to replace his heart valve in 1971. However, he continued to work and did not let his health condition define him.
Funeral
Richard Beckinsale’s funeral was held on March 28, 1979, at St. George’s Church in Bloomsbury, London. His family, friends, and colleagues from the entertainment industry attended the funeral to pay their respects. Richard’s former co-star from “Rising Damp,” Frances de la Tour, read a eulogy during the service. Richard’s partner, actress Judy Loe, and their daughter, Kate Beckinsale, were also present at the funeral.
Eulogy by Frances de la Tour
Frances de la Tour, who played Richard’s landlord in “Rising Damp,” spoke about Richard’s talent and his kind and gentle nature. She said, “Richard was a consummate actor, and he had a rare gift of making people laugh. He was also a gentle and kind person who always had time for others. We have lost a great talent and a dear friend.”
Burmese Connection
Richard Beckinsale had a connection to Burma, now known as Myanmar, through his father, Arthur John Beckinsale. Arthur was a Burma Railway veteran who had served as a prisoner of war during World War II. He had been captured by the Japanese and forced to work on the infamous Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway. Arthur had written a book about his experiences called “Burma Railway Artist,” which was published in 1979, the same year Richard passed away.
Richard Beckinsale’s Visit to Burma
Richard Beckinsale had visited Burma with his father in 1978, a year before his death. They had traveled to Burma to attend a ceremony honoring the veterans of the Burma Railway. Richard had also visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, a famous Buddhist temple in Yangon, and had expressed his admiration for the country’s culture and people. His visit to Burma had been a memorable experience for him and his father.
Conclusion
Richard Beckinsale’s death was a tragic loss for his family, friends, and fans. However, his legacy lives on through his work and the memories of those who knew him. His connection to Burma through his father and his visit to the country adds another layer to his story. Richard Beckinsale may have left us too soon, but he will always be remembered as a talented actor and a kind-hearted person.
FAQ
What was the cause of Richard Beckinsale’s death?
Richard Beckinsale died of a heart attack at the age of 31 on March 19, 1979, in Sunningdale, Berkshire, England.
When and where was Richard Beckinsale’s funeral held?
Richard Beckinsale’s funeral was held on March 28, 1979, at Mortlake Crematorium in London, England.
Was Richard Beckinsale buried or cremated?
Richard Beckinsale was cremated at Mortlake Crematorium in London, England.
What is Richard Beckinsale’s Burmese connection?
Richard Beckinsale’s daughter, Kate Beckinsale, has a Burmese ancestry from her mother’s side. Her mother, Judy Loe, was born in Urmston, Lancashire, England, to a Burmese mother and an English father.
