Stanley James Carroll Beck
(1929-1973) was 'a very naughty boy' according to Joan, John Le Mesurier's wife. No doubt James was naughty when enjoying some down time with John, co-actor in Dad’s Army, a series beloved by the whole world.
Although he gained immortal fame in this British comedy classic, James Beck (or Jimmy) was much more than his role as wartime spiv Private Walker. Did you know he spent over twenty years on stage in repertory all over the UK? Working with people like Jean Alexander, Diana Rigg, Trevor Bannister, Kenneth Williams and Denholm Elliott, to name a few?
The reviews of his work are full of praise and especially for his repertory work in York, he earned plaudits from none other than Sir Laurence Olivier.
Lots of excellent books have been written about the Dad's Army series, and 'platoon members' like Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn, Frank Williams, Arnold Ridley and Bill Pertwee had their biographies (sometimes posthumously) published. Probably the least known actor from the series is Jimmy Beck. Little info can be found on the Internet, usually focussing on his untimely death, and unfortunately nobody, not even his wife Kay, ever wrote down the story of Jimmy's life.
An actor that was so extremely talented, and did so much work before finally gaining fame but sadly basically is solely remembered for that one role of which he said himself: 'whether you like it or not, you get pigeonholed'.
Jimmy Beck deserves more than that.
That's why I, Mariska Schrieken, decided to start working on a biography. The initial thoughts of writing down every little piece of info I could find on Jimmy finally culminated in starting the challenge of writing his life story in 2023, 50 years after his death in 1973.
To say it has been and still is a challenge is an understatement; so many people that knew or worked with him have passed away since or are not available or untraceable. If only this project had started 20 years ago!
Throughout his life, Jimmy experienced many highs—his talent, his marriage, his friendships, and the joy he brought to the public with his performances.
But, besides all these highs his journey also had its challenges and sadly ended tragically and prematurely in 1973.
The book will offer the reader a unique insight into JAMES BECK, a man who never grew up.
When the book is finished, I hope the story of Jimmy's life (told to the best of my possibilities) will be an enjoyable read and a fitting tribute to him.
