Ray Brooks, the actor well-known for a range of memorable roles in TV shows and films, has died at the age of 86. His family has confirmed that he passed away on August 9, 2025. Ray, who in his later years was also suffering from dementia, had two sons, Tom and Will, and a daughter, Emma, who sadly died of cancer.
Many people remember his voice from the children’s show Mr Benn. Others remember him from the famous TV drama Cathy Come Home. People of different ages know his face or his voice.
Ray Brooks' family and children
Ray Brooks was married to Sadie for many years. They married in the 1960s and stayed together till he passed away. Together, they had three children. He had two sons and one daughter.
Their sons are named Will and Tom. Their daughter, Emma, died in 2003 after battling cancer. The family has asked for privacy while they grieve. Will and Tom spoke briefly when the news came out. They gave a short statement about their father and said how much they will miss him. They said,
"His three true loves were family, Fulham Football Club, and spending time in Brighton, where he was born."
Ray kept his home life quiet. He did not look for big headlines about his family. He liked to be private and to spend time with those close to him.
Ray Brooks' career and legacy
Ray Brooks began working as an actor in the late 1950s and 1960s. He played a big role in Cathy Come Home in 1966. This show made him known to a wide audience. He later took many parts on TV and in film over the decades.
He was the voice and narrator of Mr Benn. The show had only 13 episodes. Even so, the show was aired every year on TV. His warm voice made the stories feel safe for children. He also read on the show Jackanory and did many advertisements. His voice work reached a wide audience across generations.
Ray Brooks acted in many other TV shows and films. He had roles in Danger Man, The Avengers, Z Cars, and a lot of other shows. Beyond TV and film, he wrote books and kept a quiet life. He loved simple pleasures, like time in Brighton and watching Fulham. Fans remember his voice and his multiple small yet strong performances. Tributes have come from long-time fans and new viewers. Many have said his work brought comfort and joy.
Ray Brooks leaves behind his wife, Sadie, and his sons, Will and Tom. He also leaves a long list of work that people can remember him by. His daughter Emma is also remembered by the family. The simple, warm voice he used on children’s TV will stay in many memories for years. People will keep talking about his roles and his gentle way of acting. His family has asked for privacy while they plan a small funeral and to remember him quietly with close friends and family soon.
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