Bill Naughton author of the play ‘Alfie’, the film version of which starred Michael Caine, was a native of Co Mayo, Ireland. He wrote several other plays, two of which were made into feature films. Naughton was also the author of novels and a collection of short stories.
William John Francis Naughton was born in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo in 1910. When he was four years old his family moved to England. The Naughton’s settled in Bolton, Lancashire and Bill was educated locally. When he left school he worked at several jobs, including as a lorry driver, before he began writing.
Much of Bill Naughton’s writing reflects his working class background. Apart from Alfie two of his plays were adapted for film. His play ‘All in Good Time’ was filmed as The Family Way starring John Mills in 1966. Spring and Port Wine was filmed in 1967 starring James Mason.
Bill Naughton moved to London in the 1950’s. He wrote for the humour magazine Lilliput. He also wrote for radio and television. Naughton, who was the winner of several awards, died at the age of 81 in Ballasalla on the Isle of Man on January 9th 1992.
Bill Naughton, playwright, novelist and author of short stories was born in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo in the year 1910 On This Day.
Michael Caine by classic film scans on 2011-01-23 01:58:54