After decades in the spotlight, a beloved figure from the world of television has officially stepped away from acting. Duncan Preston, renowned for his role as Doug Potts in the long-running ITV series Emmerdale, has confirmed his retirement. The actor,who portrayed Laurel Thomas’ father from 2007 to 2020,quietly shared the news earlier this year,marking the end of an era for his fans.
doug Potts bid farewell to Emmerdale in 2020, relocating to Australia to start a new chapter with Betty Eagleton. While his character’s departure left the door open for a potential return, Duncan pursued other roles, appearing in popular shows like All Creatures Great and Small, Midsomer Murders, and Silent Witness. However,the 77-year-old actor now considers himself retired,though he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of one final project. “I consider myself retired, but if anything comes up that I want to do, I will,” he told This Is Money. “I’d love to do one last really nice part.”
His most recent appearance was in Channel 5’s Good Ship Murder, which could well be his swan song unless an exceptional possibility arises. Beyond his professional life, Duncan opened up about his personal journey, including his on-again, off-again relationship with ex-wife Susan Penhaligon. The pair first married in 1986, divorced in 1992, and reconciled in 1997 before ultimately parting ways again in 2015. Susan, who played Jean Hope in Emmerdale, shared the screen with Duncan during his time on the show.
Reflecting on the changes in his life, Duncan shared insights into his move back to Yorkshire. “I sold the highgate flat for a good profit and bought a place twice as big for half the price coming back up to Yorkshire in 2015 after Susie and I split up, and that’s the house I have now,” he explained. “It’s in a lovely village and looks out over Ilkley Moor. It’s a 1950s detached property with four bedrooms, and I rattle around in it, but I love it.”
Duncan’s career has been marked by versatility and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on British television. While he may no longer grace the small screen, his legacy continues to resonate with audiences who have followed his journey over the years. As he enjoys retirement in his Yorkshire home, fans will undoubtedly cherish the memories he created both on and off the set.
What prompted duncan Preston’s decision to retire from acting?
Table of Contents
- 1. What prompted duncan Preston’s decision to retire from acting?
- 2. Duncan Preston Reflects on Retirement, Emmerdale Legacy, and Life in Yorkshire
- 3. An Exclusive Interview wiht the Beloved British Actor
- 4. On Stepping Away from Acting
- 5. On His Time in Emmerdale
- 6. On Life Beyond the Screen
- 7. On His Career Legacy
- 8. A Thought-Provoking Question for Fans
Duncan Preston Reflects on Retirement, Emmerdale Legacy, and Life in Yorkshire
An Exclusive Interview wiht the Beloved British Actor
Following his official retirement from acting, Duncan Preston, best known for his role as Doug Potts in ITV’s Emmerdale, sat down with us to discuss his storied career, personal journey, and plans for the future.
On Stepping Away from Acting
Q: Duncan, you’ve officially announced your retirement after decades in the industry.How does it feel to step away from acting?
A: It’s bittersweet, to be honest. Acting has been such a huge part of my life, but I feel it’s the right time. I’ve had an amazing run, and I’m grateful for every role, especially Emmerdale. Doug Potts will always hold a special place in my heart. Having mentioned that, I haven’t closed the door wholly—if the right project comes along, I’d love to do one last really nice part.
On His Time in Emmerdale
Q: Speaking of Emmerdale, your portrayal of Doug Potts was unforgettable. What was it like being part of such an iconic show?
A: It was an absolute joy. The cast, the crew, the fans—thay all made it feel like home. Playing Doug, Laurel’s father, was a fantastic experience.When my character left for Australia in 2020, it was a fitting end for Doug, but it was emotional for me. The show left the door open for a return,but I think Doug’s story had a natural conclusion.
On Life Beyond the Screen
Q: Beyond acting, you’ve had quite a personal journey, including your relationship with Susan Penhaligon. How has life changed for you as retiring?
A: Life has definitely slowed down, and that’s been a welcome change. After Susan and I finally parted ways in 2015, I moved back to Yorkshire. I sold my flat in highgate and bought a lovely house in a village overlooking Ilkley Moor. It’s a 1950s detached property with four bedrooms—plenty of space for me to rattle around in! It’s peaceful, and I love it here.
On His Career Legacy
Q: Looking back on your career, what do you hope audiences will remember most about your work?
A: I hope they remember the versatility and the heart I tried to bring to every role. From All Creatures Great and Small to Silent Witness, I’ve always aimed to give my best. If I’ve left even a small mark on British television, I’ll consider that a success.
A Thought-Provoking Question for Fans
Q: Duncan, if you could leave your fans with one thought, what would it be?
A: I’d say this: life is full of chapters, and it’s never too late to start a new one. Whether it’s a career change, a new home, or just a different outlook, embrace it. Now,I’d love to hear from the fans—what’s your favorite memory of doug Potts or any of my other roles? Let’s have a conversation!
As Duncan Preston enjoys his retirement in Yorkshire,fans will undoubtedly continue to celebrate the legacy of a truly remarkable actor. Stay tuned for updates—and who knows, we might just see him onscreen one last time.
