Ronald Magill, the beloved actor best known for his portrayal of Amos Brearly in *Emmerdale Farm*, left behind a legacy that extended beyond his iconic role on the popular soap.
The actor, who passed away at the age of 87 in September after battling a long illness,
bequeathed more than a third of his £1.3 million estate to John Toole, the man who provided him with care and companionship during his final years.
Magill’s will, which was drawn up in February 1998, allocated a large portion of his estate to Toole, who had lived with the actor in his later years.
Toole, 64, was described by neighbors as Magill’s “rock,” offering unwavering support to the actor, particularly after the loss of his partner of 32 years, David Soar, in 1997.
Magill’s London home, valued at approximately £550,000, was one of the key assets left to Toole.
This generous gesture highlighted the deep bond between the two, as Toole played a crucial role in Magill’s care during his declining health.
In addition to leaving his home to Toole, Magill’s will also ensured that the remainder of his estate—around £830,000 before inheritance tax—was divided among his two brothers, Frederick and Alan, and their families, all of whom reside in Birmingham. The document specified that the house and all its contents would go to Toole before any inheritance tax was deducted from the family’s portion. This thoughtful arrangement ensured that Toole’s years of service were honored and compensated generously.
Ronald Magill’s portrayal of Amos Brearly on *Emmerdale* was an integral part of the show’s early years. From 1972 to 1991, Magill’s character served as the village gossip and comedic anchor at the Woolpack, helping establish the atmosphere of the show’s formative years. Amos, known for his bushy sideburns, became a staple of *Emmerdale Farm*, and his character even made a rare cameo in 1995, marrying Annie Sugden decades after his initial proposal had been rejected.
In interviews prior to his death, Magill expressed his concerns about the evolution of *Emmerdale*, particularly after the show dropped “Farm” from its title in 1989. He believed that the soap had lost the “innocence” that characterized its early years, a sentiment that reflected his deep connection to the show’s roots.
Magill’s later years were marked by health struggles, including a battle with Bell’s palsy, a condition that caused facial paralysis. Despite his illness, he continued to receive the support of John Toole, whose dedication to Magill was praised by the actor’s neighbors in Wimbledon, South-West London. One neighbor even described Toole as the actor’s “rock,” underscoring the important role Toole played in Magill’s final years.
Beyond his acting career, Ronald Magill led a fulfilling life. He was a talented stone mason, dedicated to creating stunning structures, and a passionate fisherman and poker player. Magill also proudly served in the United States Air Force, a commitment he carried with honor throughout his life.
Magill is survived by his devoted wife, Gayle, his children Chris Stewart (and his wife Natalie) and Gage Magill, as well as his beloved granddaughter, Taylor Stewart. His legacy continues to be celebrated by his family, friends, and fans, with many remembering his iconic role in *Emmerdale* and the generosity he demonstrated in his final wishes.
Magill’s thoughtful bequest to John Toole is a poignant reminder of the deep personal connections that can exist behind the scenes, highlighting the importance of care, companionship, and loyalty in both professional and personal relationships.
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