Patrick Curry

Julian Burnlee Curry (1937–2020) was an English actor, widely recognized for his role as Claude Erskine-Browne in the legal comedy-drama Rumpole of the Bailey. He pursued acting after attending Dartington Hall School and King's College, Cambridge, following in the footsteps of his father, who was headmaster at Dartington Hall School.

Curry's career spanned several decades, with numerous television and film appearances. On television, he was a familiar face in various series and dramas, including Pride and Prejudice, Z-Cars, and the BBC Shakespeare productions. His filmography includes roles in Escape to Victory, Loch Ness, and Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.

Beyond acting, Curry developed a significant interest in wine, earning a diploma from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust and becoming a freelance member of the Circle of Wine Writers. He performed a one-man show about wine internationally and recorded an audiobook on the subject. He also authored books on Shakespeare, interviewing prominent actors about their stage roles, with one of his books nominated for Theatre Book of the Year.

Julian Curry established himself as a notable English actor across television, film, and theatre. He is perhaps best remembered for his recurring role as Claude Erskine-Browne in the popular ITV series Rumpole of the Bailey, a part he played for many years. His extensive television work included appearances in classic adaptations like Pride and Prejudice and Nicholas Nickleby, as well as roles in dramas such as Z-Cars, The Onedin Line, and Inspector Morse. Curry also participated in significant BBC productions, including the Shakespearean series. His film career featured roles in diverse productions ranging from the sports drama Escape to Victory to the fantasy adventure Loch Ness and the retro sci-fi film Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.

Curry's stage career was marked by significant engagements with major theatre companies. He performed extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company, taking on roles in classic plays like Doctor Faustus, Much Ado About Nothing, The Winter's Tale, and The Merchant of Venice, as well as more modern works such as Krapp's Last Tape and Back to Methuselah. His work at the National Theatre included productions of Measure for Measure and The Alchemist. Curry also toured with renowned companies like the Old Vic and the RSC, demonstrating a broad range of theatrical experience that included Shakespearean roles and contemporary dramas.

In addition to his acting profession, Julian Curry cultivated a deep expertise in the world of wine. He obtained a diploma from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust and worked as a freelance wine writer. Curry also created and performed a successful one-man show titled 'Hic! or The Entire History of Wine (abridged),' which he presented over 150 times globally. His engagement with wine extended to audiobooks, including a Naxos recording of 'A Guide to Wine.' Furthermore, Curry authored 'Shakespeare on Stage,' a collection of interviews with leading actors discussing their interpretations of Shakespearean characters. This work, which explored specific roles with actors such as Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren, was nominated for Theatre Book of the Year, with a second volume published later.