Mac McDonald

Did you know?!

1. First role

   While busking, McDonald created the "Human Jukebox": he waited inside a large silver box, and when a coin was inserted and a song chosen, he opened a window and sang unaccompanied. In that role he first appeared on UK TV, filling in for Elton John alongside Kiki Dee on "Don't Go Breaking My Heart."

2. A change of course

   In 1968, McDonald was the local TV station's Bozo the Clown in Shreveport, Louisiana. He later moved to San Francisco, where he worked as a cycle courier and joined the AAA Acting Company.

3. A change of course

   McDonald and Hilary left a children's show company in 1982 to form the musical comedy troupe The Cheap Shots with his friend Sakal, developing "The Chip Shop Show," spoof musicals that played London's alternative comedy circuit and The Comedy Store.

4. A change of course

   After running a leather goods stall at Camden Lock Market, McDonald took over a leatherworking business from a departing American, a trade he kept for some years in Kentish Town.

5. Big break

   After some minor film roles, McDonald got an agent and did TV commercials and other parts needing an American. His Red Dwarf appearance then lifted his profile and led to more and better roles.