Tom Owen: Star of 'Last of the Summer Wine' passed away at 73

Thomas William Stevenson Rowbotham, known professionally as Tom Owen, was a British actor best known for playing Tom Simmonite in the world's longest-running sitcom Last of the Summer Wine.

Tom Owen, the actor who starred in Last of the Summer Wine, died at 73. Tom Owen's debut on the program followed in the footsteps of Bill Owen, his father, who played Compo Simmonite, his on-screen father. Other TV appearances include The Bill, The Onedin Line, and Upstairs Downstairs.





He died peacefully, according to his family, and is survived by his two children, James and William, and his ex-wife, Mary. Owen began his acting career after graduating from high school.

Tom Owen's father played a crucial role in finding him his first position as an assistant stage manager at Leatherhead Theatre in Surrey. After a year, he moved on to a similar place at the Westminster Theatre.

After working for four years on TV, Tom Owen returned to the repertory theatre in Sidmouth, Devon, where he continued to work and direct.

Tom Owen was cast as Compo's long-lost son just days after his father died of cancer in July 1999.

Tom Owen learned about writer Roy Clarke's quest after receiving a phone call from the show's producer, Alan Bell.

When asked about taking on the job, he said it was strange when he came on set. It was emotional, but he determined early on that the best way to deal with it was to be a professional.

FAQs

Why Tom Owen left the show?
As his health deteriorated, the iconic performer exited the comedy series in 1975.

Who is Tom Owen?
Tom Owen was a British actor best remembered for his role as Tom Simmonite in Last of the Summer Win.