DR RAYMOND SHAW played by ALFRED SANDOR

Dr Raymond Shaw was a bit of a dandy, a skilled surgeon who fed his gambling habits with private operations on wealthy older women, but he was to soften over the years. After divorce and blackmail he found love with Erica Hoffman, but their marriage eventually failed and later Erica died.

Raymond's third marriage was to Kate Rhodes, who needed a husband in order to adopt Josh, a little boy of whom she had become fond. Although the friends agreed it would be a marriage of convenience Raymond could not stop himself falling in love with Kate. This was the cause of much tension between the two, especially after Kate became pregnant during an affair with Dr Dan Wheatley. The news brought on a heart attack for poor Raymond and he nearly died. Kate lost her baby and Josh was reunited with his real mother, so the pair finally agreed to separate.

Alfred Sandor died in Sydney, NSW, of lung cancer, at the age of 64. The Hungarian actor was born in Budapest, to world famous circus performers. These unusual beginnings were the start of a fascinating life. As well as acting, Alfred spent time as a heavyweight boxer, and a spy for the American Counter Intelligence Corps during the Second World War.

His acting career began in America, where he appeared on and off Broadway for over 15 years; he even played opposite the legendary Ethel Merman in Gypsy. Alfred also appeared in more than 250 TV shows, including Sergeant Bilko, Edge of Night and Dark Shadows.

After moving to Australia, his success continued. He was a big hit at the Music Hall Theatre restaurant, and provided voice overs for numerous commercials.

As the dandy surgeon Dr Raymond Shaw, Alfred was one of the small group of experienced actors who provided the gravitas in Grundy's The Young Doctors. Unfortunately, ill health forced Alfred to quit the long running show shortly before it was cancelled. Ironically, he died in the same week that the final episode was broadcast. Alfred portrayed Dr Shaw with humour and dignity, making him a likeable and respected character in the long running soap.

This obituary first appeared at classicaussiesoaps.com