British TV icon Steve Hodson dies at 77: Starred in Follyfoot and All Creatures Great And Small

Steve Hodson, best known for his role in the 1970s children’s series Follyfoot, has died at the age of 77. He was also recognised for his appearances in the BBC’s All Creatures Great And Small.

The news of his death was shared by his daughter in a Follyfoot Facebook group. She wrote, “Steve passed away last night after a long battle with COPD.”

In a tribute, she added, “That’s one brighter star you’ll see in the heavens from now on.”


The message ended with words of comfort for his family: “Much love to all his family at this awful time. So sad.”

Steve Hodson’s life and career

Hodson was born in Bradford, West Yorkshire, to Rene (nee Heffernan) and Tom Hodson, a factory supervisor. He grew up in the area and attended Belle Vue Grammar School.

After working in the civil service, Hodson and his then-fiancee, Anita Carey, began taking drama classes at Bradford Playhouse. Their passion for acting led them to move to London, where they trained at the prestigious Central School of Speech and Drama from 1967 to 1970.

Although their relationship ended during this time, Hodson’s acting career began to take shape. It was also during this period that he learned to ride horses while staying with a family in Wimbledon, south-west London, who owned stables.

Steve Hodson’s breakout role

Just before securing his breakout role in Follyfoot, Hodson made his television debut in 1971, playing a hotel worker in an episode of Hine, which starred Barrie Ingham as an arms dealer. His early TV career included appearances in The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes (1971), an episode of Play for Today written by Willis Hall, The Villa Maroc (1972), and Z Cars (1974).

In addition to his on-screen work, Hodson was a familiar voice on BBC radio, featuring in numerous radio dramas, often in supporting roles. His versatility as an actor allowed him to leave a lasting legacy across both television and radio in British entertainment.

FAQs

1. Who was Steve Hodson?
Steve Hodson was a British actor best known for playing Steve, the stable hand, in the popular 1970s children’s television series Follyfoot. Born in Bradford, West Yorkshire, he was the son of Rene and Tom Hodson.

2. What health challenges did Steve Hodson face in his later years?
Steve Hodson, the 1970s TV star best known for his role in Follyfoot, battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in his later years. This long-term lung condition, which affects breathing, was confirmed by his daughter in a tribute shared in a Follyfoot Facebook group.