A tribute was paid to the “actor of the highest standing and talented writer”
A Coronation Street and Doctor Who actor has died. A representative of Michael McStay has issued a statement to confirm the veteran performer has died aged 92.
The actor enjoyed a long career with in television with notable roles as Derek Moberley in the classic sci-fi show Doctor Who. He also appeared in shows such as The Avengers and The Persuaders.
His final performance came in Coronation Street when he played Alan Hoyle in Corrie in 2011. The actor took over the role from John Woodvine in one of the soap’s most important storylines, involving the character John Stape.
A spokesperson has issued a statement to confirm the sad news he died over the weekend of heart failure. They said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Michael McStay, an actor of the highest standing and talented writer, whose career across stage, screen and radio spanned over six decades.”
Born in 1932, Michael had a long and prolific career in television, theatre, film and radio, beginning in the 1950s. Michael also appeared in several films, including the 1967 crime drama ‘Robbery’, directed by Peter Yates.
Alongside acting, he was a talented writer, penning a string of plays for BBC Radio 4 as well as the ITV sitcom ‘Pull the Other One’ in 1984. Fans took to social media to issue tributes after the sad news was announced.
James said: “RIP Michael McStay. I had the great pleasure of meeting him twice, last time in April 2024. Such a lovely man, witty & on the ball in his 90’s.”
Stuart commented: “Sad to see that Michael McStay has passed away. Absolutely adored him in Corrie as Alan Hoyle in the John Stape storyline. Both him and the late Jean Fergusson were brilliant in the basement episodes.”
Michael studied Drama, French and Philosophy at Bristol University, later performing in 13 one-hour episodes of the French series ‘Le Mari de L’Ambassadeur’.
He also served two years in the military. In 1967, Michael married fellow actor Jennifer Clulow, now 81, known for roles in ‘The Avengers’, ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ and ‘No Hiding Place’.
Even though Michael stepped back from public life in his later years, he remained deeply reflective about his career.
Speaking on Toby Hadoke’s ‘Happy Times and Places’ podcast, Michael said he had no regrets about roles he missed out on – including James Bond – instead expressing contentment with his personal life. He said: “I wouldn’t swap my family for all the success in the world.”
