Trivia

George R.R. Martin has stated that Baker's portrayal of the Roman Emperor Tiberius (between the ages of 18 (in 23 BC) and 77 (in 37 AD)) in I, Claudius (1976) was the inspiration for the character of Stannis Baratheon in "A Song of Ice & Fire"/ Game of Thrones (2011).

He was awarded an MBE in 2007 for his fundraising efforts in aid of his local youth club.

In addition to acting, he wrote scripts for stage, radio and screen. An aficionado of good food and wine, he also put together a book of recipes, entitled "A Cook for All Seasons" (1992).

He met Louie Ramsay when they played on-screen husband and wife, "Chief Inspector Reg Wexford" and "Dora Wexford", in the The Ruth Rendell Mysteries (1987) TV series.

Baker's father was a British consul; his mother was a Red Cross nurse. Baker had a brother, Patrick. He battled dyslexia as a youth.

Began as an actor in repertory while in his teens. Acted with the Old Vic, 1959-61, including a tour of the Soviet Union. For six years, from 1965, he ran his own repertory troupe. Based at the Theatre Royal in Suffolk, he dispatched his Candida Plays Company on national tours, with himself as artistic director.

Did screen tests for Ben-Hur (1959), which can be seen in the 'Making Of...' documentary included on the DVD of the movie.

He also wrote and directed dozens of corporate training films. Because he was so well loved he persuaded a great many well-established actors and the odd star to perform in them.

Although he played Siân Phillips's son in I, Claudius (1976), he was actually two years her senior in real life.

Had four daughters by first wife, costume designer Julia Squire: Candida (b. 1958), Tessa, and twins Charlotte and Eleanor (b. 1963); a fifth daughter, Sarah Baker, was born in 1967 to actress Sally Home, who later became his second wife.

Has published a cookery book, and a biography.

Was offered the main guest lead of Thawn in Doctor Who: The Power Of Kroll

Has a brother -Terence.

Born in Bulgaria of an Irish born diplomat he dropped out of public school to study stage technique then spent several seasons with the Old Vic company touring many parts of the world. .

Married to dress designer Julia Squire and has 2 daughters Candida and Tessa.