1901–1989
Beechwood Cemetery
Section 8 Lot 4
Eric Clavering, born Eric George Simon, in London, England, carved out a quiet legacy in film and television. Beginning his career in 1934, he became a familiar face in British cinema during the Second World War, notably appearing in the acclaimed 1941 film 49th Parallel. After the war, Clavering moved to Canada, where his talent found new audiences. He appeared in films such as Welcome to Blood City (1977) and Improper Channels (1981), but his most memorable role was on television. From 1963 to 1966, he portrayed “Shingwauk” in the beloved series The Forest Rangers, a performance that endeared him to generations of viewers. His versatility shone through guest appearances on The Littlest Hobo, Adventures in Rainbow Country and This Is the Law.
Clavering’s career reflected the cultural landscape of his time. In the 1960s, Indigenous roles like “Shingwauk” were typically written and performed by non-Indigenous actors, shaped by settler perspectives and simplified portrayals. Unfortunately, these depictions rarely captured the depth of Indigenous experience. Today, Canadian film and television productions have shifted dramatically. Indigenous creators now lead their own creative projects, reclaiming narratives and presenting authentic voices that challenge stereotypes.
Acclaimed works such as Smoke Signals (1998), Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner (2001), and more recently, Reservation Dogs (2021–2023) exemplify this transformation, offering nuanced and authentic portrayals of Indigenous life that resonate globally.
Married to Marion Gillon, Clavering lived a long life dedicated to his craft. He passed away in Toronto on June 10, 1989, at age 88.
Sources:
• Wikipedia – Eric Clavering
• IMDb – Eric Clavering
• Mount Pleasant Group – Eric Clavering Story Archive
Photos: Wikipedia
