Actor. Born in London, the son of a shoe shop chain proprietor, his father died while serving in World War II. He was encouraged to participate in the theater by an English grammar school teacher and later earned a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Following his national service with the Royal Air Force, he joined the Old Vic in 1950 and was a player there for three years. He went onto acquire extensive experience with several British repertory companies and made an indelible mark on Broadway with his Tony Award nominated performance of Chitterlow in the production “Half of Sixpence” (1965 to 1966). Grout began appearing in an abundance of British TV programs and in films during the 1950s. He is perhaps best remembered for playing Chief Superintendent Strange in the series “Inspector Morse” (1987 to 2000). (bio by: C.S.)