To Be Frank: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Frank Thornton

An interview with Jane Thornton and author, Brian Slade.

Frank Thornton is best known for his iconic sitcom roles.

Frank is most known as Captain Peacock in “Are You Being Served?” and Truly in “Last of the Summer Wine.” But as the new biography “To Be Frank” reveals, his career was far richer and more varied than many realize. In a recent conversation, author Brian Slade and Frank’s daughter, Jane Thornton, shared insights into the writing of the book and the remarkable man at its heart.

The Spark Behind the Biography

The idea for “To Be Frank” was born from a chance meeting between Brian Slade and Jane Thornton at a memorial service for June Whitfield. Jane mentioned that Frank had left behind a detailed scrapbook chronicling his career—a treasure trove for any biographer. Although Frank himself was modest about his achievements, dismissing the idea that anyone would want to read about his life, the sheer volume and detail of his records told another story.

Brian realized there was a much broader audience for Frank’s work beyond ‘Are You being Served?’ and ‘Last of the Summer Wine’. “His career was so much more than just those two shows,” Brian explained. “It perhaps gets a little bit lost by the popularity of those two shows, just how much he did.”

A Life in the Spotlight—and Beyond

Frank Thornton’s career began in 1940, earning his stripes in repertory theatre before joining the RAF during World War II. After the war, he returned to the stage, working with legendary companies and actors, including the Woolfit Company and Michael Bentine, whom he greatly admired.

One of Brian’s goals in writing the biography was to showcase the full breadth of Frank’s work, not just his most famous roles. “I wanted to avoid it being a book about Captain Peacock,” Brian said. “He did so much else. You want to sort of discover what’s behind him.”

Jane added that even Frank’s family was surprised by the extent of his career. “My mother was quite surprised when I was digging stuff out. ‘Goodness me,’ she said, ‘I didn’t know he was doing all that.’”

Surprises and Highlights

Frank’s career was filled with unexpected turns. He was not only a master of comedy but also a serious stage actor. He appeared in everything from “Steptoe and Son” to “The Kenny Everett Show,” often playing against type and delighting audiences with his versatility.

Jane shared that Frank was happiest in roles that involved music, such as “Me and My Girl,” reflecting his family’s musical background. Brian noted that Frank’s loyalty to his colleagues and his craft was evident, especially in ensemble shows like “Are You Being Served?” where teamwork was key.

The Man Behind the Roles

At home, Frank was a strict but humorous father. Jane recalled, “Imagine living with that stare when you’ve done something naughty!” Yet, the family shared a strong sense of humour, often sending each other up when things got too serious.

Frank’s meticulous archives provided an invaluable resource for Brian, offering firsthand accounts and reflections that brought depth to the biography. “He started his archive on April Fool’s Day, 1940—a slightly quirky day to have started his professional career,” Brian noted.

Enduring Appeal

Frank Thornton’s appeal endures across generations. His performances in “Last of the Summer Wine” and “Are You Being Served?” continue to bring joy to audiences old and new. As Brian observed, “He wasn’t afraid to send himself up. He moved with the times, even with the comedy.”

Brian believes Frank would have been quietly pleased with the biography, despite his natural modesty. “He was never about the stardom or the attention, but I get the impression he would have been gratified to know that he was more than just a character actor.”

A Lasting Legacy

“To Be Frank” is more than just a biography—it’s a celebration of a true gentleman whose talent, humility, and humour left an indelible mark on British entertainment. As Brian and Jane’s conversation reveals, Frank Thornton’s story is one worth telling, and one that continues to inspire and entertain.

“To Be Frank” is available now in limited edition hardback from Fantom Publishing, priced at £19.99.