Peppa Pig’s voice actor David Graham has died aged 99.
He played Grandpa Pig on the hit children’s television show Peppa Pig and starred as the voice actor of Aloysius Parker – the butler in 1960s Thunderbirds. He also appeared in the iconic film sequels.
In the 60s and 70s, David was used as the voice behind the evil Daleks in Doctor Who.
Taking to X, the profile of the late creator of Thunderbirds, Gerry Anderson, which is presumably managed by his son, Jamie, posted: ‘We’re incredibly sad to confirm the passing of the legendary David Graham.
‘The voice Parker, Gordon Tracy, Brains and so many more. David was always a wonderful friend to us here at Anderson Entertainment. We will miss you dearly, David. Our thoughts are with David’s friends and family.’
His cause of death has not been revealed.
David’s distinctive cockney accent and loyal but mischievous character became one of Thunderbird’s most beloved elements.
Although primarily known for his voice work, Graham also appeared on screen in various British television series. He had roles in dramas, comedies, and crime shows such as The Saint and The Avengers.
For his role as Grandpa Pig, his TV character was married to Granny Pig and was father to Mummy Pig and Aunt Dottie.
David continued to work well into his later years.
He reprised his role as Parker in Thunderbirds, the CGI-animated reboot of the classic series that premiered in 2015.
He also voiced other key characters in the legendary show, including Brains, the technical genius behind International Rescue.
His continued involvement with the production after several decades highlights the lasting impact of his iconic characters.
Following the announcement of his death, tributes and messages of condolence poured in online.
Taking to X, one fan penned: ‘Rest in Peace David Graham the voice of parker in Thunderbirds and one of the original voices of The Daleks in Doctor Who and I had privilege of meeting him at Blackpool Comic Con 9 years ago and I’m going to miss him terribly’
‘Incredibly sad news. RIP David Graham, and thanks for all the memories. Parker was always one of my favourite characters.’
‘David Graham. A wonderful actor and wonderful voice. The Legend Will Continue; isn’t that correct? ‘Yus. m’Lady’. Thank you for filling all our childhoods with joy.’
‘Parker from ‘Thunderbirds’ was always one of my absolute favourite characters, growing up. David Graham was perfect, so much so that when they had him voice the character again the recent reboot of TB, he was *seamless*. I loved him to bits.’
‘David Graham was a true pillar of British entertainment. He provided so many iconic voices over the decades that its fair to say this industry wouldn’t be where it is without him. From Doctor Who to Thunderbirds, with vocals as comforting as a bowl of warm soup, he will be missed’
Graham was also a member of Lawrence Olivier’s company at the National Theatre.
His successful career also included providing the voice for Wise Old Elf and Mr Gnome for Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom, shown in the UK on Channel 5.
He also had brief appearances in ITV’s Coronation Street, The Bill and London’s Burning and BBC dramas Doctors and Casualty.
Gerry Anderson passed away in 2012 aged 69 from a long illness.