Ian Gelder, 1949–2024

Published on:
10th May 2024

Bristol Old Vic Theatre School was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Ian Gelder, a former acting student from the 1960s. His most notable television roles include Mr Dekker in Torchwood: Children of Earth, Kevan Lannister in Game of Thrones, and a guest-star role as Zellin in the twelfth series of Doctor Who.

After graduating from the Theatre School in 1969, Ian began his stage career as part of the illustrious Bristol Old Vic theatre company, before performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company for almost thirty years. Ian’s stage roles also took him to Cambridge Theatre Company, National Theatre and Jermyn Street Theatre amongst others.

The School extends our condolences to Ian’s loved ones, former classmates and colleagues. If you would like to share your memories of Ian, please email the team.

Header: Ruth Crafer
One of my favourite parts about BOVTS is that it feels β€˜homegrown’. From the set to the costume, lighting, acting and sound, every single aspect of a theatre production or film is down to the students. The location of Clifton is so serene and the School being so small everyone knows each other and it feels so personal and special. Violet Morris, BA Professional Acting Student