Biographie
Actor Gerry Sundquist, born Gerald Christopher Sundquist in Manchester, was professionally known as Gerry Sundquist but affectionately called Ged by his friends.
He was raised in Chorlton alongside his older brother and younger sister. His passion for acting began in primary school, leading him to join the Stretford Children's Theatre while attending St. Augustine's R.C. Grammar School in Wythenshawe.
His breakthrough came in 1974 when casting director Doreen Jones noticed him entering the Kellog's factory and recommended him for his first professional TV role as Jim in the popular 10-part Granada TV series 'Soldier & Me.' This was followed by his role as Billy in 'The Siege of Golden Hill' in 1975.
During the mid-1970s, he performed in various theatre productions, including the Young Vic's 'All Walk of Leg,' 'The Fantastic Fairground,' and 'Macbeth' in 1975. He also delivered a notable performance as Alan Strang in John Dexter's 1976 National Theatre production of 'Equus.'
His television and film credits include playing Malic in the 'The Dorcons' episode of 'Space 1999' (1978), starring in 'Music Machine' (1979), portraying Michael Radlet in the TV drama 'The Mallens' (1980), and one of his finest performances as Pip in the 1981 BBC adaptation of 'Great Expectations.' He also appeared in 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' (1982), 'The Last Days of Pompeii,' and 'Don't Open 'til Christmas' (both 1984).
While working on projects worldwide, Gerry lived for a period in the Cotswolds village of Barnsley before returning to London. Unfortunately, his personal life and career declined during the mid-1980s.
Throughout these struggles, his devoted family, particularly his brother Geoffrey, supported him. With Geoffrey's assistance, Gerry gradually overcame his difficulties and resumed acting. In 1992, he appeared as Jimmy Matthews in 'Lost Boy,' an episode of the long-running ITV series 'The Bill,' which became his final television role. Despite hopes for the future, Gerry died by suicide on Sunday, 1st August 1993, by jumping in front of a train at Norbiton station. He was 37 years old and left a note apologizing to his family for "letting you down." His funeral was held in Kingston, Surrey.
Inspired to honor Gerry's memory, his brother Geoffrey wrote a children's story titled 'Father Christmas and the Missing Reindeer,' based on cherished family Christmas memories. The book was published and later adapted into an animated short film released in 1997, dedicated to Gerry.
Following this, Geoffrey began writing a screenplay called 'The Whistling Boys,' a tale about two brothers set during World War I. Sadly, the film was never completed as Geoffrey Sundquist passed away in March 2005.
