On the Buses is a staple of classic British comedy that aired on from 1969 to 1973 and featured several high-profile stars at the time.
One actor who landed a role on the show was Rudolph Walker, who is better known today for his role as Patrick Trueman in . But he claimed that he was later removed from the cast due to racial discrimination.
In an interview with The Guardian, he alleged: “I was supposed to be a recurring character, but then they said – and they’d probably deny it now – that they couldn’t continue with the part because it would affect the ratings.
“Back then, there always had to be a dramatic reason for bringing in a black character. I wanted to be recognised as an actor. You would go to a casting, and when they saw you were black, they would say, ‘I’m sorry, you don’t have enough experience.’
“But it was just an excuse,” he added.
Rudolph shared his experience with discrimination. (Image: Getty)
The inaugural episode of The Early Shift introduced viewers to George, a black busman portrayed by Rudolph. Although George was initially planned to be a regular character, he ultimately appeared only in this one episode and did not return in subsequent instalments.
The series centres around two working-class characters, Stan Butler and Jack Harper, who operate the Number 11 bus for the Luxton and District Motor Traction Company. The storyline primarily takes place in two main settings: the Butler family’s residence and the bustling bus depot, providing a glimpse into their everyday lives.
Network On Air described On the Buses as featuring “bawdy, comic postcard humour” and a “resolutely working-class outlook. ” The Series quickly gained popularity among audiences, establishing itself as one of the most cherished British comedy series of its era, if not television history.
Throughout its run, 74 episodes aired over seven seasons, highlighting the characters’ comedic and, at times, poignant experiences. The show’s success also inspired the production of three spin-off films, further cementing its legacy in British entertainment.
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The actor recently shared he was homeless for a period of time while filming EastEnders. (Image: Getty)
Walker joined the cast of the popular soap opera in 2001, taking on the role of Patrick Trueman. Since then, he has made notable contributions to the franchise, including appearances in the internet spin-off series : E20, which focuses on a younger generation in the East End of London.
In addition to his work on , Rudolph showcased his versatility as an actor by portraying the wise and affectionate grandfather in the sitcom The Crouches. This show, which aired for two seasons, offers a comedic yet poignant look at the dynamics of a dysfunctional family living in Walworth, South-East London.
Walker’s film career includes performances in several notable movies, such as 10 Rillington Place, a chilling drama based on real events; King Ralph, a comedy about an American who unexpectedly becomes king of England; and Let Him Have It, a compelling film that dramatizes a miscarriage of justice in the 1950s.
In a shocking revelation, Walker recently disclosed that he had been living a secret life while playing Patrick Trueman on . After a difficult divorce in his 70s, he found himself grappling with homelessness, which led him to navigate this challenging chapter of his life while maintaining the facade of his character on the show. He described this period as a disheartening “double life,” as he faced financial difficulties that left him nearly destitute.
In an interview with , he explained: “It was painful. It was extremely difficult. I just didn’t have any financial means. I was literally starting from scratch again in my 70s, with nowhere to live. It was a time of great pain and loneliness.
“Some days, on my way to the studio, I would pull up at the side of the road and have a cry. It was a sort of double life.
“Questions of, ‘Who am I? Why am I in this position?’. There was no way the public watching me as Patrick every other night were aware that was what was happening.”
Diane Parish, who plays Denise Fox, was one of the only cast members who could see past his happy façade, but despite her questions, he never revealed what he was going through.
Express.co.uk has contacted ITV for comment.