The Bill’s Ted Roach, actor Tony Scannell, dies aged 74
THE Bill star Tony Scannell has died at the age of 74.
The Irish actor was known to millions as DS Ted Roach on the hit police series, playing the character for nine years until 1993.
His passing was confirmed on Facebook.The cause of death has not yet been revealed.
The Facebook tribute read: “Tony Scannell played DS Ted Roach on The Bill for nine years. Any episode that had him in it would have me fixated on the TV.
“Ted was such a dynamic character. I’m sure Tony was just as amazing.And his memory will be cherished by his loved ones and friends all.”
Tony was born in Cork in 1945. His father Tom was a professional goalkeeper who once played for the Republic of Ireland national team.
Prior to acting, Tony served for five years on guard duty in the RAF.
He landed small roles in TV in the 1970s, before being cast in cult sci-fi film Flash Gordon in 1980, where he shared scenes with legendary actor Max von
Sydow. He made his debut in The Bill in 1984 – but was only originally signed on for two episodes.
However, producers decided to keep him on, and he ended up a regular fixture on the show until 1993, returning for two episodes in 2000.
Tony was declared bankrupt in 2002, owing the Inland Revenue about £42,000.
Speaking about his rise to fame previously, he had said: “I thought I’d have to give up acting, as I never had much work.
“But I landed a role in Flash
Gordon, where I was an officer to the great Max von Sydow. Just standing next to him scared the pants off me.
“Then I got an audition for The Bill and played Ted. He looked after himself, old people and the very young – the rest had better beware.”
Tony admitted he hated the popularity of the series, because of the impact it had on his life.
He said: “I’d come from nothing to needing a bodyguard when I went out to clubs.”
He is survived by his partner Agnes Lillis and three children.