Lewis Collins, born on May 27, 1946, in Birkenhead, Cheshire, England, was a multifaceted talent whose journey from a working-class background to stardom exemplifies resilience and versatility.

His early life was steeped in music and performance, largely influenced by his father, Bill Collins, a shipwright and jazz musician.

This familial background instilled in Lewis a love for music, particularly the drums, which he pursued passionately in various bands during his youth.

At the age of 13, Collins received his first drum kit from his father, marking the beginning of his musical journey.

He played with his father’s band and later joined a group called the Renegades, tapping into the burgeoning Merseybeat scene in Liverpool.

Despite a promising start in music, including a brief opportunity to audition for The Beatles, Collins opted for a different path and moved to London in the mid-1960s, where he engaged in various temp jobs while contemplating a career in acting.

Collins’s transition to acting was catalyzed by his exposure to a radio play, prompting him to train at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

His time there honed his skills in stage technique and character development, laying the groundwork for his future success.

Collins gained early acting experience in theater and small television roles, but it was his casting as William Bod in the hit series *The Professionals* (1977) that catapulted him to fame.

In *The Professionals*, Collins portrayed an ex-paratrooper turned elite operative for CI5, showcasing his physicality and charisma.

His dynamic chemistry with co-star Martin Shaw helped establish the series as a staple of British action drama.

The show’s gritty realism and fast-paced action resonated with audiences, making Collins a household name.

His portrayal of Bod was marked by a blend of toughness, humor, and emotional depth, which endeared him to viewers.

Following the success of *The Professionals*, Collins sought to diversify his acting portfolio.

He starred in the war film *Who Dares Wins* (1982), playing an SAS officer, and even auditioned for the role of James Bond, though he was ultimately passed over.

In 1986, he took on a different role as Philip Mark in *Robin of Sherwood*, allowing him to explore a more complex character in a rich narrative context.

In 1988, Collins showcased his versatility further in *Jack the Ripper*, where he played a supporting role alongside Michael Caine.

This film allowed him to delve into darker, more psychologically intense material, highlighting his range as an actor.

As the 1990s progressed, Collins faced challenges in finding significant roles.

He attempted to reinvigorate his career by pursuing screenwriting and directing at UCLA, but this phase yielded limited success.

Despite relocating to Los Angeles to tap into the American market, Collins found that his Hollywood ventures did not match his earlier triumphs.

In 1997, there was hope for a revival of his iconic role as Bod in a new series, but after much anticipation, he was unexpectedly dropped from the project.

The subsequent show, *CI5: The New Professionals*, failed to resonate with audiences, further underscoring the missed opportunity for Collins and the production.

Collins’s personal life was marked by his marriage to Michelle Larret in 1992, with whom he had three children.

He valued his family life deeply, often prioritizing it over the public attention that came with his career.

Beyond acting, Collins was a man of diverse interests.

He held a private pilot’s license and was passionate about flying, martial arts, and motorbikes.

His dedication to physical fitness was evident in his black belt in jiu-jitsu and training in karate.

In 2008, Collins’s life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with cancer.

He fought bravely against the illness but ultimately passed away on November 27, 2013, at the age of 67.

His death marked the end of a remarkable life filled with adventure, talent, and dedication to his family.

Before his passing, Collins returned to the UK, reconnecting with his roots in Merseyside.

His ashes were preserved in a memorial display at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, serving as a serene resting place that reflects his private nature and the dignity with which he approached life.

Lewis Collins remains a beloved figure in British television history.

His contributions to the entertainment world, particularly through his iconic role in *The Professionals*, have left an indelible mark on audiences.

He was not just an actor but a family man, adventurer, and music lover whose legacy continues to resonate with fans.

His life story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

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