# Patrick McGoohan

> Irish-American actor (1928–2009)

**Wikidata**: [Q298908](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q298908)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_McGoohan)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/patrick-mcgoohan

## Summary
Patrick McGoohan was an Irish-American actor, director, and screenwriter best known for creating and starring in the cult classic British television series *The Prisoner* (1967). A versatile performer, he worked across television, film, stage, and voice acting, earning critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Award nominations for his roles in drama and comedy.

## Biography
- **Born:** March 19, 1928
- **Died:** January 13, 2009
- **Nationality:** Irish-American
- **Education:** Attended St. Mary’s College, London (no degree specified)
- **Known for:** Creating and starring in *The Prisoner*, acting in *Danger Man* (1960–1968), and winning two Primetime Emmy Awards
- **Employer(s):** British and American television networks, film studios
- **Field(s):** Acting (television, film, stage, voice), directing, screenwriting, producing

## Contributions
Patrick McGoohan’s most significant contribution was creating, co-writing, and starring in *The Prisoner* (1967), a surreal and influential TV series that explored themes of individuality, surveillance, and existential freedom. The show became a cult classic, inspiring generations of filmmakers and writers. He also starred in *Danger Man* (1960–1968), a spy series that cemented his reputation as a leading actor in British television. Additionally, McGoohan won two Primetime Emmy Awards: one for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series (1975) and another for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series (1986). His work as a director and producer included television programs and films, further expanding his influence in the entertainment industry.

## FAQs
**What was Patrick McGoohan’s most famous role?**
Patrick McGoohan is best known for his role as Number Six in *The Prisoner*, a groundbreaking 1967 TV series he also created and co-wrote. The show’s themes of identity and resistance to authority made it a cultural landmark.

**Did Patrick McGoohan win any major awards?**
Yes, he won two Primetime Emmy Awards: one in 1975 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series and another in 1986 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series.

**What genres did Patrick McGoohan work in?**
McGoohan worked across multiple genres, including spy thrillers (*Danger Man*), psychological drama (*The Prisoner*), Westerns, and comedy. He was also involved in voice acting and stage performances.

**Was Patrick McGoohan involved in directing or producing?**
Yes, he directed and produced several television programs, including episodes of *The Prisoner*. His work behind the camera showcased his creative control and vision.

**What was Patrick McGoohan’s nationality?**
He was Irish-American, born in the United States to Irish parents and later moving to England, where he built his career.

## Why They Matter
Patrick McGoohan’s work, particularly *The Prisoner*, redefined television storytelling by blending spy fiction with existential philosophy. His portrayal of defiant individualism against oppressive systems influenced later works in sci-fi, dystopian fiction, and political drama. As an actor, he brought depth to complex characters, while as a creator, he pushed boundaries in narrative structure and thematic ambition. His Emmy-winning performances and directorial work further solidified his legacy as a multifaceted talent in entertainment.

## Notable For
- Creating, co-writing, and starring in *The Prisoner* (1967), a cult classic TV series
- Winning two Primetime Emmy Awards (1975, 1986)
- Starring in *Danger Man* (1960–1968), a popular British spy series
- Working as a television director and producer
- Contributions to film, stage, and voice acting
- Irish-American heritage and transatlantic career

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Patrick McGoohan was born on March 19, 1928, in the United States to Irish parents. He later moved to England, where he attended St. Mary’s College in London. His early exposure to theater and performance shaped his career trajectory.

### Acting Career
McGoohan began his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in British television and stage productions. His breakthrough came with *Danger Man* (1960–1968), where he played secret agent John Drake. The show’s success established him as a leading man in spy fiction.

### *The Prisoner* and Creative Control
In 1967, McGoohan created *The Prisoner*, a surreal and allegorical series where he starred as Number Six, a former spy held captive in a mysterious village. The show’s themes of identity, freedom, and resistance to authority made it a landmark in television history. McGoohan’s involvement as creator, writer, and lead actor demonstrated his creative vision.

### Awards and Recognition
McGoohan received critical acclaim throughout his career, winning two Primetime Emmy Awards: one for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series (1975) and another for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series (1986). These awards highlighted his versatility across genres.

### Directing and Producing
Beyond acting, McGoohan directed and produced television programs, including episodes of *The Prisoner*. His work behind the camera showcased his ability to shape narratives and visual storytelling.

### Later Career and Legacy
McGoohan continued acting in film, television, and voice roles until his death on January 13, 2009. His influence persists in modern storytelling, with *The Prisoner* inspiring countless works in sci-fi, dystopian fiction, and political drama. His Irish-American background and transatlantic career further enriched his cultural impact.

### Personal Life and Nationality
McGoohan’s Irish-American identity played a role in his public persona. He maintained connections to both the U.S. and the UK, contributing to his international appeal.

### Influence on Pop Culture
*The Prisoner* remains a touchstone for discussions on surveillance, individualism, and authoritarianism. McGoohan’s portrayal of Number Six has been referenced in films, music, and literature, cementing his legacy as a pioneering figure in television.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. International Standard Name Identifier
4. CiNii Research
5. MusicBrainz
6. SNAC
7. Internet Broadway Database
8. Find a Grave
9. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
10. [Prisoner star Patrick McGoohan dies. 2009](http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/celebritynews/4241443/Prisoner-star-Patrick-McGoohan-dies.html)
11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
12. [Patrick McGoohan | Open Library](https://openlibrary.org/authors/OL7538871A/Patrick_McGoohan)
13. Quora
14. Patrick McGoohan - Behind The Voice Actors. Behind The Voice Actors
15. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
16. The Movie Database