RIP Prentis Hancock

 

Il Messaggero

June 3, 2025

Prentis Hancock has died. The unforgettable Paul from Space: 1999 passed away at the age of 83. His family announced it with a post on social media. 'The Hancock family wishes to announce the passing of Prentis, who died peacefully in hospital, surrounded by his sister, niece, and daughter on Friday, May 30. The family requests privacy at this time,' reads the brief message. Among British science fiction enthusiasts, the name Prentis Hancock immediately evokes the figure of Deputy Commander Paul Morrow, a character from the first season of Space: 1999, one of the most iconic television series of the 1970s. Born on May 14, 1942, in Glasgow, Hancock was a constant presence on the small screen, distinguished by his intense roles and his sober yet incisive style. His most famous contribution is undoubtedly in the series Space: 1999 (1975-1976), produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson. Hancock played the second in command at Moonbase Alpha, alongside stars Martin Landau and Barbara Bain. Although he appeared only in the first season, his character remained one of the most recognizable and appreciated by fans of the series. But the Scottish actor is also known for his multiple appearances in Doctor Who, where he took part in various episodes with different roles between 1970 and 1978. Among these are 'Spearhead from Space,' 'Planet of the Daleks,' 'Planet of Evil,' and 'The Ribos Operation,' acting alongside different Doctors over the years. Hancock's career also extended beyond the boundaries of the science fiction genre, with roles in British television series such as Z-Cars, The Professionals, The New Avengers, and The Bill, thus consolidating his reputation as a versatile actor in the UK television landscape. Although he never achieved the fame of major international stars, Prentis Hancock remains a cult figure for lovers of classic British TV, a symbol of an era when science fiction was told with passion, ingenuity, and few special effects but plenty of charisma.

HANCOCK, Prentis (Walter Prentis Hancock)

Born: 5/14/1942, Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.

Died: 5/30/2025,

 

Prentis Hancock’s western – actor:

Last of the Mohicans (TV) -1971