Brian Trueman, the esteemed writer behind beloved British cartoons such as Danger Mouse and Chorlton and The Wheelies, has passed away at the age of 92, as confirmed by his son.
Ben Trueman shared on social media platform X: “Some sad news. My father, Brian Trueman, has died. 92 years of happy life. A career in television and radio that included Children’s Hour, Clitheroe Kid, Scene at 6.30, Granada Reports, Brass Tacks, Screen Test. He may be best known as the writer of and actor in Dangermouse, Duckula, Jamie and the Magic Torch, Cockleshell Bay, Chorlton and The Wheelies etc. He was clever, funny, resilient, an absolute gentleman, loving and loved. We will all miss him so much.”
Born in Manchester, Brian Trueman’s most notable work took place at the acclaimed Manchester animation studio, Cosgrove Hall. The studio, established in 1976 by animators Brian Cosgrove and Mark Hall and based in Chorlton-cum-Hardy, produced some of the most successful children’s programmes of the 1980s before ceasing operations in 2009.
Brian Trueman’s contributions were vast and varied, extending beyond writing. He was a prolific voice actor with 47 credits as Nanny in Count Duckula and wrote 11 of the show’s 65 episodes. His talents also reached other cherished series such as Thomas the Tank Engine, Wallace and Gromit, and Postman Pat.
Trueman’s most significant achievement was arguably Danger Mouse. He contributed to 79 episodes of the original Danger Mouse series, which ran from 1981 to 1992 and featured iconic voices like David Jason and Terry Scott.
Tributes to Trueman have poured in from notable figures. Lucy Meacock stated on social media: “What a wonderful broadcaster who brought so much joy into our lives. The voice of our childhood – so warm & full of fun. He will always be remembered with great fondness. Thinking of you at this sad time.” Mike Harding expressed his condolences: “A lovely man Ben – so sorry for your loss – I had the great privilege of working with your dad at Cosgrove Hall on Dangermouse and Duckula. A great communicator and a truly witty man – he has given the world much joy. My condolences to you and the family.” The Lancashire Hotpots added: “Sorry for your loss Ben, your father was an important person in all our childhoods.”
Brian Trueman’s legacy in the world of animation and children’s television remains unparalleled. His work has left an indelible mark on several generations and continues to bring joy to audiences worldwide.