Brian Scott Liverpool
Kenneth Griffiths documentary on Thomas Paine was great. Could anyone tell me how to obtain a copy?
Fri Jun 12 18:20:29 2009

Kenneth Gouldson, Bebington,Wirral
I remember watching the 'Perils of Pendragon' in the late 60's. Brilliant, the voice, the expressions, it was ahead of its time, (Open All Hours) the younger generation need to see Kenneth Griffith's as the ecentric shopkeeper. It baffles me why it has not been repeated or put onto DVD. From one KG to another KG
Tue May 26 12:22:40 2009

Dorothy Cooper Hampshire
I have a book 'Fighter Pilot' which belonged to my father-in-law with a note inside saying it was owned by Kenneth Griffith when he was in rep at Colwyn Bayin 1942. He nmentions that he might well end up in the RAF himself as he was in RAFVR. RE the reference to Biggleswade in the tribute as my father-in-law lived at Sandy and had RAF people billeted there during the war and may have obtained the book then. I am happy to return it to the family.
Tue Jan 13 17:40:25 2009

David Dixon - Hertfordshire
Along with Sellers he is a favourite actor and artist. I remember being bewitched by two thrilling documentaries of his in the 70s and 80s, and he often stole the show with his acting, for instance in the films 'Heavens Above!' (where he only appears briefly) and 'Only Two Can Play', and also in McGoohan's 'The Prisoner', which is a really great work for him to be immortalized in. I'm glad to learn that he wrote his own speech for the last episode. Can we have a complete list of his works please?
Thu Feb 28 10:57:21 2008

Geoff Twist of Hackney
I was talking to a close in-law of Mr Griffiths last evening, and recalled being touched by the proximity to a great man when I saw him get on the 73 bus at Islington Green shortly before he died. I particularly enjoyed his history documentaries.
Wed Feb 20 09:06:29 2008

LEE EVANS - TONYREFAIL
I would love to watch "Bus to Bosworth". Could someone email me from where I can get this film?
Tue Jun 19 14:38:41 2007

Trevor Floyd - Birmingham & Tenby
I had long admired Keneth from a distance for his honesty and commitment to his beliefs. I will be sadder on his passing everytime I walk past where he was born. I am sure that your spirit lives on Kenneth in all your dreams of a juster world.
Mon Feb 26 13:37:12 2007

Christine McEwen, Cirencester
I am so sad to hear the family's loss. My condolences to go his family. I used to baby sit "Jono" in Canonbury and named my first child after "Jono". He and his wife were such a lovely couple, and gave me great inspiration.
Tue Feb 13 09:06:16 2007

Terence
One of my favorite movies of all time is Wild Geese, out of all the characters was my favorite and the most memorable!...Though I am not familiar with Mr. Kenneth Griffith other films I will surly make a point to see his other works……
Mon Feb 12 09:52:54 2007

Michael Browne,Llanelli, S.Wales
Kenneth Griffith was one of the most talented actors of his generation, a genius in my opinion. His contribution to 'Only two can play' was masterful. I think you have to co be born in Wales to realise how masterful. I had the honour to meet Mr Griffith in Pembroke Dock, in 1966 at the RAFA club where he was judge of a beauty contest. It was a cosy affair with not more than forty people present. I somehow introduced myself to the gentleman, and must have said something like "Ive seen you on the films, haven't I"?. He din't blink and we had a pleasant chat,as I recall. Lovely guy,and very much missed.
Fri Jan 5 09:00:56 2007

Iwan Williams, Anglesey, N Wales
The BBC broadcasted a documentary on the work of Kenneth Griffith on St David's Day 1993, entitled 'The Tenby Poisoner' if I remember correctly. Well worth catching if it is re-shown.

The Minder episode in which he appeared was called 'The Tethered Goat', in which his character was a butler (of sorts!) hired by Arthur Daley to serve a Saudi Arabian dignitary. It's often repeated on Sky TV (sorry BBC Wales!) and again is well worth catching.
Thu Dec 28 11:47:44 2006

Dave Ansell - Manchester
One of the best evenings of my life was spent with Kenneth Griffith. He spoke at the Shavian Society, in London, about 25 years ago. A friend of mine (John Chidley) was on the committee of the Shavian Society and knew KG as he would often buy books from Sotheran's in Piccadilly, where my friend was deputy manager. KG talked for over an hour but his link with Shaw was quite remote ...but his talk was wonderful. Afterwards we sat in a nearby pub getting slowly drunk. He was so enthusiastic about what he said. I remember him running and jumping on a double-decker bus and waving goodbye. Such a wonderful man. I loved his films (documentaries as well as his acting). I have only just discovered he died in June and am quite shocked and upset. And I'm so grateful to be able to say something here and do my bit to keep his memory alive. I remember that evening when I met him so clearly ...thanks Kenneth for making my life a little bit richer.
Tue Dec 12 09:10:55 2006

Wyn Moses
I took part in Bus to Bosworth when I was eleven and had the pleasure of being one of the children (Gareth) under his guidance. He was a lovely man and very tolerant and patient with us as children I was very saddened by the news of his death.
Tue Nov 28 09:43:53 2006

Michael Sparey. London
I met Kenneth Griffith as I was driving a number 38 bus one Sunday morning back in the 80’s. He was going to Victoria Station. I asked him for his autograph which he gave me. We had a quick chat, and I couldn’t has wished to meet a nicer man. Thanks Mr Griffith for the pleasure you have given to me and the world with your acting. Such a sad loss.
Wed Nov 22 08:49:15 2006

Illinois Cook, London

Watching his Boer War documentary was one of those shocking events when you realise that you are witnessing real and rare creativity, and that most creative work produced is not very original, or nearly so successful.

I suspect a love for people was a key source of his talents. He was a wonderful writer too, I am reading 'Thank God We Kept The Flag Flying' about the siege of Ladysmith.

willie van der Heever - south africa
From a Boer's point of view: he made people see the real sides of war and how it affects both sides. All of us is human - fighting our own battles. Gave me a lot of insight of the Boer War out of a British prospective. He will be missed. So sorry i've never met him. R.I.P.
Thu Oct 19 10:19:00 2006

Margot Stephens nee Everett - Biggleswade
I have known Kenneth for 75 years and thought of him as a brother when his mother and my father were together. My father would have been very proud of Kenneth’s achievements and I have fond memories of our time in the 30’s and more recently meeting Kenneth again with some of his family. With sincere condolences to his family.
Mon Oct 2 13:02:13 2006

Eugene McCauley Derry N.Ireland
I met Kenneth once at the Derry airport he was an absolute gentelman we talked while he waited for his plane and I told him I admired his work and the characters he portrayed in his movies ..he will be sadly missed and I'm a richer man to have met him and honered that I did.
Wed Sep 27 08:43:17 2006

A BBC spokesperson said:
"Thank you for your query regarding the Kenneth Griffith programme, The Bus to Bosworth. I'm sorry but we have no plans to show this programme at the moment, but we are actively seeking a programme which helps contextualise the incredible contribution Kenneth Griffith made to all forms of television - from controversial documentary to drama. And we are sorry but there are no plans to commercially release the programme for sale at present."
Mon Sep 4 08:57:30 2006

Phil Rossiter - Tenby born
Only a few days ago did I hear of Kenneth Griffiths' passing. I was born in Tenby, grew up in the knowledge of him being our town's great actor and documentary maker. I last saw him on Caldey Island a few years ago, sat quietly on a seat by the monastery, contemplating, yet well aware of the many visitors passing by. Wanted so much to go and talk to him of many of our shared interests but felt he needed just the beauty of that one day. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. A great man!
Tue Aug 29 10:24:48 2006

Phil Atkinson, Abergavenny
I've been away: has Kenneth Griffith's passing been marked by any replaying of his work? And has anyone (including the gent who mentioned one earlier in this list of emails) got a copy of 'Bus to Bosworth' which I and my schoolchildren might copy and enjoy. I've been meaning to seek one for years, Is it commercially available, BBC?
Fri Jul 28 09:22:31 2006

F Robbins, Swansea
I had the pleasure of meeting Kenneth Griffith on North Beach, Tenby in 1974, when I was a child. He was the first entrant in my newly bought and highly prized autograph book, and he signed it gladly. I have never forgotten that day or his kindness in chatting to an awe-struck little girl. I have seen lots of his work and admired the man greatly. I was watching "Very Annie Mary" only yesterday. I cried bucketloads all the way throught it. A sad loss indeed...
Fri Jul 21 10:52:43 2006

David Street, Bristol
Kenneth Griffith's two-part 1999 BBC History programme on the Boer War is one of the most impressive and watchable documentaries ever made. Immensely sad as Griffith's recent passing is, as a tribute to his life, couldn't BBC Wales or someone try to have his most acclaimed documentaries released on DVD?
Mon Jul 17 09:26:43 2006

Tobie Openshaw, South Africa
I was researching a Boer War documentary for the centenary in 1999 (sadly, I never got the funding to complete it) and watched Kenneth's Boer War films which are in the South African Film Archives, located his phone number and called him up. He was somewhat crusty at first but warmed to his subject and we had a great conversation. It is such a coincidnce that I searched for his films on Amazon.com just now, wondering if he was still alive - and came to this page to find out he died mere weeks ago. Our one brief conversation was an inspiration to me. Tobie Openshaw
Wed Jul 12 08:56:24 2006

Bryan Hewitt Waltham Cross Herts
Kenneth was my close friend for the last six years.
His gifts as an actor, writer, historian, ground breaking documentary maker and communicator were extraordinary and well used. His outspoken opinions in defence of the IRA got him in trouble and cost him the frienship of the heads of all the broadcasting channels and he effectively committed professional suicide as they no longer answered his letters requesting assistance to make one final documentary on the "Life of Wolfe Tone ".

Robert Musgrove - London
I was an admirer of Kenneth Griffiths, particularly as a documentary-maker, where he brought knowledge, insight and conviction to his art, fearlessly employing iconoclastic opinions as well as more subtle 'sub-texts'when it suited him. Like Marx, he dared to 'question everything',and with documentaries like Collins and Casement, challenged the 'Establishment' line at a time when it was far braver to do so than in today's social climate. Whether you agreed with him or not, it was impossible not to admire his determination to question 'Why?' Also, as a student, I remember watching%2! 0'The Bus to Bosworth',which contained a trademark passion for Welsh national pride as well a surprisingly balanced historical analysis of Richard III by a man so clearly intent on elucidating the 'truth' by educating and entertaining the viewer in a charming and good-humoured 'period' story that I am fortunate now to have on video. I shall watch it on the anniversary of the Battle of Bosworth in his memory.
Mon Jul 10 09:37:09 2006

Bryan Hewitt Waltham Cross Herts
Kenneth was my close friend for the last 6 years.His gifts as an actor, writer , historian , ground breaking documentary maker and communicator were extraordinary and well used. His outspoken opinions in defence of the IRA got him in trouble and cost him the frienship of the heads of all the broadcasting channels and he effectively committed professional suicide as they no longer answered his letters requesting assistance to make one final documentary on the "Life of Wolfe Tone ".Kenneth's simple wish was to " make the British think" about the consequences of thier colonial involvement in South Afri! ca, India, Ireland and Iraq . Of course he was difficult , of course he was nasty about us English , but no one could deny he WAS telling the truth!. And if anyone doubts his truth about our presence in Norhern Ireland then they no nothing about Irish history !. I'll leave you with this thought " a world with no room for the Kenneth Griffith's of this world is a world which will return to the sands"......
Mon Jul 10 09:28:55 2006

Oliver Griffith, London
I am Kenneth Griffith's grandson and have had the pleasure of knowing him for 15 years. He will be missed by all that knew him. Oliver
Mon Jul 10 09:13:29 2006

Amanda Smith - Somerset
I have just finished reading Kenneth Griffiths autobiography. What a fascinating man, what convictions he had and what a life. He was an outstanding actor too. I've only just heard that he has died - sad news. My best wishes to his family.
Fri Jul 7 09:09:10 2006

Jim and Sally Kinnear, Cresselly, Pembrokeshire
People come and go over the years and on times without a second thought. We were fortunate enought to meet Kenneth 2 years ago and after being able to look into a very tiny part of the incredible variety and depth of life it is certain that Kenneth Griffith is one person that will not be forgotten.
Thu Jul 6 08:47:35 2006

john davies long buckby northants
I have admired, and enjoyed immensely all the work of Kenneth Griffiths. Indeed a genius. I would like to learn where I may obtain DVD copies of his work.
Tue Jul 4 08:57:51 2006

Derrick williams
Many years ago a poster advertising a film outside one of Tenby's cinemas proclaimed in large capital letters above the film's title: KENNETH GRIFFITH in " " - and in very small print the main actor - "with Richard Burton!"
What a man, what a character - he'll be sorely missed.
Mon Jul 3 11:32:28 2006

Graham Hayes - Dovercourt
I had the pleasure of meeting Kenneth in 1989 at an event for fans of The Prisoner television series. The event was at the Thatched Barn Hotel in Borehamwood. Just before Kenneth was about to address the audience, the sound system failed, but this did not deter Ken, and he projected his voice for all to hear! It was a great day and I'm glad I had the chance to meet and chat with him.

Michael Brownlie, London
He made you think, that's more than most do.
Mon Jul 3 11:21:10 2006

Bernard McFadden London
He was truly a quite remarkable man, I met him in Islington a few years ago and we talked about his films and acting career. I asked him what was his favorite film and he said it was a very early film called The Shop on Sly Corner. I later saw this film, he played the lead role and he was first class. A very fine actor.

Dafydd Gwylon, near Tenby.
Yes, Kenneth Griffith had such talent and courage,-and also empathy with the downtrodden. He worked hard to understand the historical characters, and interpret them.
My 1st introduction to him in Botswana in the late sixties is memorable. There was a definite change in his thinking and politics over the years. I met him in the National Eisteddfod of Wales in 2002, and he had become more of a fervent Welshman.
Mon Jul 3 10:59:33 2006

Douglas Mathieson, Boca Raton Florida
As a teenager growing up in Glasgow, Scotland I remember seeing Kenneth in so many wonderful roles. His inimitable quirky yet TRUE AND AUTHENTIC personality was what stuck in my mind and made me so proud of being British...that is to say able to speak the truth. I never met him but when I read of his death I was so saddened...I loved seeing him in movies...he was GREAT!!!!
Mon Jul 3 10:51:03 2006

John Mathews, Essex
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Kenneth Griffith. He was an accomplished actor and storyteller; but more than that, he was a man of deep conviction and humility. In a long and distinguished career, he brought many fascinating characters to life. I well remember what must be the pinnacle of his career - a film which he wrote, directed, and produced about the Boer War - which was shown on Channel 4 or 5[?]. In that film Ken played over twenty characters - from a young English rifleman to a Boer general. It was a fantastic piece of work - a masterpiece - which brought back many happy memorie! s of when British television was informative, educational and ENJOYABLE. I shall never forget it; and it should be repeated regularly. Hopefully, others in the television industry may learn from it - and the quality of programmes might improve! Thank you so very much for all the enjoyment you have brought me over the years, Ken, and sleep in Peace.
Fri Jun 30 09:13:01 2006

David Richards - Wolverhampton
Irresistable performance as Ap Jenkins in Only Two Can Play was a remarkable piece of self-satirisation.
Thu Jun 29 09:45:24 2006

Dean Swain - Essex
Just wanted to say a big thank you to Kenneth Griffith from all the Minder fans out there, Kenneth appeared in an early episode of Minder in which he was superb.
Thu Jun 29 09:45:11 2006

katie-Mae Griffith - London
Kenneth Griffith was my grandfather, I loved him very much, and I am so proud of all of his achievements throughout his life. I am going to miss visiting him and listening to all of his many wonderful stories he had to tell. Love you grampy X
Wed Jun 28 09:14:47 2006

Declan Connolly Narberth
Thank you Kenneth, your revolutionary spirit lives on! BBC wake up! screen a season of his films.
Wed Jun 28 09:11:15 2006

Derek A. GOL DSBURY Stroud Gloucestershire
My wife and often remnember watching this very funny series on T.V. and wonder if it is available on video or D.V.D. Any thoughts?
Wed Jun 28 09:02:19 2006

Terry McMahon
I have the greatest of memories of meeting Kenneth at a very intimate showing of his Irish films at the Irish Centre Cairde NGael in East London. There were about 20 people all squeezed into one small room but we sat rapt for hours as Kenneth personally introduced and expalined the background of his works. The audience were entranced by the Welsh lilt and powerful tone of his speech, and of course the obvious knowledge Kenneth imparted on the subject. Dia Linn A Chara (God Bless my Friend).
Tue Jun 27 13:22:55 2006

Gwilym John Jones,Caernarfon
Was a massive fan ever since watching "Hang out your brightest colours" in about 1992/93!Could have listened to him all day!A massive loss to the nationalist cause!Maybe we'll see a few of his works broadcast as a tribute!
Tue Jun 27 12:05:10 2006

Gavin Whitfield - Liverpool
Just found out the passing of the great Kenneth Griffith, having ironically watched his wonderful documentary on Thomas Paine yesterday evening. A rasping but sterling voice allied to combustible energy and implacable conviction, he will be greatly missed though not forgotten. A real flesh and blood champion of the republican spirit, greater than the myriad screen roles he inhabited, yet humility tempered any overarching design (rare in actors), comfortable in the knowledge of being uniquely himself. Condolences and kind thoughts to his family and friends.
Tue Jun 27 09:33:37 2006

Anna Davies, Penally, near Tenby.
I live in Penally where Kenneth spent a lot of his early life. My father was one of his teachers in Greenhill School Tenby and Kenneth was a frequent visitor to our home so therefore I remember him from when I was a very litttle girl. He always called to see us when in Tenby and continued to do so until fairly recently. We were great admirers of his film and television work and we were so sorry to hear the sad news. He was a most interesting and entertaining man.
Tue Jun 27 08:51:13 2006

Geoff Lake, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Kennneth was once a guest at the Six of One Prisoner convention held at Portmeirion in North Wales. He delighted us all, signed autographs and joined in the fun. A photograph and Ken and I at Portmierion hangs proudly in my office to this day. RIP Kenneth.
Tue Jun 27 08:50:54 2006

Jim Treloar - Chester
I admired him as a comedy actor. I could watch Only Two Can Play anytime, a comic genius. (When will it come out on DVD??) By chance I was watching The Englishman who went up a Hill only yesterday, what a performance, but I didn't expect the sad news today. Sympathy and thoughts with you Lily and all your family.
Tue Jun 27 08:49:22 2006

H.W.WILLIAMS NEW INN PONTYPOOL
i was saddened to hear the news of the death of kenneth griffith. i enjoyed seeing him in films and t.v.productions. his acting was great and always a pleasure to watch.lets hope there will be some repeats of his work shown on t.v in the near future.our thoughts go out to his family on this sad occasion.
Tue Jun 27 08:49:05 2006

Ekaterina Dimitrova, Sofia, Bulgaria
Ken was a truly global humanitarian - always on the side of the disadvantaged idealists. In my 2000 London University student's performance he played the Times correspondent on the Balcan wars James Boucher, fascinated by his uncompromising jurnalistic justice. I will pay homage to both at the grave of Boucher in Rila Monastery. All my thoughts are with his family. Loving farewell, Ken, from the Dimitrovs
Tue Jun 27 08:48:18 2006

Rob Jenkins Pembrokeshire
"Only Two Can Play" is my favourite film What an actor, hewill be missed by all. Thank you Hugh for all the pleasure you have given to millions of people. R.I.P.
Tue Jun 27 08:46:59 2006

Richard Owen, Blaenllechau
He had the ability to steal scenes with just a line: 'Shooters, Terry!' from Minder being a prime example. Mr Griffiths' autobiography, 'The Fool's Pardon' is well worth seeking out.
Mon Jun 26 14:14:51 2006

Steven Jones - Wales
A truly wonderful and fascinating man. I once had the honour of Kenneth giving me a sneak preview of his film 'The Untouchable' about Dr Ambedkar. My thoughts go to his family, who loved him dearly.
Mon Jun 26 11:34:07 2006

Steffan Ellis. Cardiff
How very sad. I saw "Bus to Bosworth" in my younger days and it influenced my love of history by showing it could be fun. Later, his documentaries made the point that sometimes real history, no matter how unpalatable, needs to be shown to the wider audience.
Mon Jun 26 09:56:43 2006

Ian Collins - Plymouth
Sad News today, really enjoyed watching anything he was in, he will be greatly missed. Not just a fine actor but a great documentary maker, my thoughts are with his family.
Mon Jun 26 09:17:18 2006

Ian Titherington
He was quite brilliant in 'Only Two Can Play' and his documentary on Michael Collins was a generation ahead of its time. He was a remarkable Welshman and internationalist-Wales could do with a few more like him.
Mon Jun 26 09:17:06 2006

Justin Robinson, Cardiff
He was outstanding in "The Englishman who went up a hill but came down a mountain" and should have won an Oscar for his perfomance. I'll never forget his warm and heartfelt personal tribute to the Welsh writer and broadcaster Gwyn Thomas shortly after his death in 1981. It was mesmorising and totally brilliant.
Mon Jun 26 09:16:01 2006

Dave Hayes
I met Kenneth Griffith around 2 - 3 years ago and the man had a great belief in an Independent Wales. Even at his age he stood before a crowd on a cold December morning and urged everyone to fight for this. Let us hope that this becomes a reality in his memory.
Mon Jun 26 09:15:06 2006

Jim Morrish
i'd love to see the michael collins documentary that Mr. Griffith made, if it was banned it must be good
Mon Jun 26 09:14:28 2006

Ravi Vadgama, London
I worked with the production team that made the documentaries with Kenneth. They were remarkable, in that he played the main characters in the programmes. Specifically the one on Dr Ambedkar, Kenneth's portrayal of Mahatma Ghandi was amazing.
Mon Jun 26 09:14:17 2006

Gail Russell
I remember Kenneth Griffith for his appearances in the Prisoner. I remember those the first time I saw them, and now have them on DVD! It was a brilliant show which I have now shared with my neice. I will remember him fondly, as I do Leo McKern, Alexis Kanner and Angelo Muscat. After seeing Griffith in the Prisoner, I never forgot him and recognized him immediately any time I saw him thereafter. Another wonderful British character actor gone. He will be missed.
Mon Jun 26 09:13:10 2006

Steve Gordos, Wolverhampton
Perils (not Tales, David Edwards of Somerset) of Pendragon was superb. The BBC should repeat it, if only to let me hear Kenneth say "Mr Bicycle Chain Morgan" just once more.
Tue Jun 20 12:18:28 2006

Andrew Loos, Gillingham,Kent
I remember vividly watching Kenneth Griffith's superb documentaries about Cecil Rhodes and the Boer War. Some 35 years later I look back on those with as much pleasure as when I recall his superbly crafted performance in the BBC's adaptation of Gabriel Chevallier's Clochemerle. I was so impressed by his epic series on the Boer War that I wrote to congratulate him and sent him a silk headscarf, depicting Queen Victoria and aspects of the Boer War, that had been amongst the possesions left to me by my Grandmother. I was delighted to receive a warm thank you letter from Kenneth a few months later aft! er he had returned from filming overseas.I'm sure he still has it! An outstanding historian and actor, one of Wales finest.
Wed Jun 7 08:37:59 2006

ned harding, notts
a one off
Thu Mar 16 00:16:22 2006

Why Shoot the Teacher
The film is a dramatization of the book by Canadian author Max Braithwhaite. The film is worth watching for the five minutes Kenneth Griffith is on screen as a Schools Inspector. David Dunton, Odessa, Ontario
Wed Mar 8 02:58:21 2006

Marquita Redston-Oregon USA
Kenneth Griffith is one of the most underrated geniuses of the art world. Actor, author, thinker, humanitarian. A film is made for me when he pops up. Have just seen "Englishman..mountain" for first time. Hilarious. Have not seen any documentaries - wish I could. Bendith!
Wed Dec 7 20:06:25 2005

John Williams Lincoln
As witty in Wild Geese, thought he played the part brilliantly.
Mon Nov 28 23:09:18 2005

Lily Griffith, London
I would like to say he is my grandad and he is the best in the whole wide world!!!
Fri Jun 24 12:08:49 2005

Paul Keeley - Brighton
There is a documentary made by Kenneth Griffith about the IRA leader Michael Collins that was banned under the Anti-terrorism laws of the 1980/90s. I think that it may have been made by Telefis Eireann.

I would like if possible for the name and a short description and if at all possible info. of where I can get a copy.
Tue May 17 14:15:10 2005

David Edwards - Somerset
Tales of Pendragon was hilarious but in a change of mood and character his portrayal of the Roger Casement story is unbeatable.
Sat Feb 12 12:35:02 2005