Clive Walter Swift (born 9 February 1936) is an English actor known for his role as Richard Bucket in the British sitcom Keeping Up Appearances.
Swift was educated at Clifton College and Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where he read English literature. He was previously a teacher at Lamda and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Swift has appeared in many TV series and movies. He is most noted for his performance in Keeping Up Appearances, starring as Richard Bucket, the long-suffering husband of Hyacinth. He also starred in the BBC adaptation of The Barchester Chronicles and appeared in the Doctor Who story Revelation of the Daleks. On 25 December, 2007, he appeared in a Doctor Who Christmas special as Mr Copper.
Clive Swift was formerly married to novelist Margaret Drabble (1960-75). He is the father of one daughter, Rebecca, who runs The Literary Consultancy and two sons, Adam, an academic, and Joe Swift, a TV gardener. Clive's brother, David Swift, is also a well-known actor.
As well as acting, he is a songwriter. Many of his songs are included in his show, currently (2007) touring the UK, Richard Bucket Overflows: An Audience with Clive Swift.
Studied English literature at Cambridge Univeristy
One daughter Rebecca and two sons, Adam and Joseph.
Was previously a director of The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
Brother of actor David Swift (I)
Father of television gardener Joe Swift (II)
Uncle of actress Julia Swift (I).
One of 17 performers who have acted both in the 20th Century Doctor Who Tv Series and the 21st Century Doctor Who TV series.
