Dursley James McLinden (29 May 1965 – 7 August 1995) was a British actor born on the Isle of Man. His career was mostly focused on the London stage in musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera, Gigi (Lyric Theatre, 1985) and Follies.
At the age of eight, McLinden made his first stage appearance at Willaston School, playing the dame in Dick Whittington.[1] Aged 16, he left his home in Douglas and trained as an actor at the Mountview Theatre School in Peckham.[2]
Death
Falling ill in 1988, McLinden was diagnosed with HIV AIDS in 1990.[2] As a result, he raised money for West End Cares, the theatrical arm of AIDS charity Crusaid.[3] The actor continued working up until a few weeks before his death at the age of 30.[4] His death was attributed to AIDS.[5]
Legacy
The lead character of Ritchie Tozer (Olly Alexander) in the 2021 AIDS drama It's a Sin was inspired by McLinden. It's A Sin writer Russell T Davies met McLinden through mutual friend Jill Nalder.[6] The series also contains a direct tribute to McLinden, by way of Ritchie appearing in a fictional Doctor Who story, where he plays the character Trooper Linden.[7][8]
McLinden is the subject of a 2024 documentary made for the Blu-ray box set Doctor Who: The Collection — Season 25, entitled "Looking for Dursley", which explores his life and career.[6]
Other appearances
Mr. Bean Shoe Salesman in Mr. Bean Goes To Town 1991
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