A few weeks ago our founder, Rudolph Walker CBE was in conversation with acting titan, David Harewood at the V&A! The audience were treated to a journey, through the life of Rudolph. From his passion for acting in Trinidad; to his early presence at drama school at London’s City Lit; his first performance at St Pancras Town Hall and his meteoric rise, through stage, television, and film.

Success did not come without struggle, with Walker continually drawing on his own inner strength and self-belief to overcome the prejudice of trying to approach television and theatre companies for roles, only to be told that they were “not written for Black actors”! But as Walker’s Mother always told him, “There are different ways of skinning a cat”!

Walker spoke deeply about his commitment to maintain dignity in any of his acting roles. Also to always examine, when considering any parts, what was the benefit for him. This led Walker to iconic roles, such as in Mustapha Matura and Rudy Narayan’s legal drama, Black Silk. Othello, directed by David Thacker and Charles Marowitz. Walker also appeared in the first production of Mustapha Matura’s Play Mas at the Royal Court Theatre in 1974. And now, of course as the much beloved Patrick Trueman of Eastenders.

In an industry where very few succeed, Rudolph Walker has not only survived, but continues to thrive. Still enjoying the rigour of learning lines, researching character and counting his blessings not to mention creating opportunities for young people through the Rudolph Walker Foundation! Let’s hope that a well-deserved knighthood is not too far away.