Introduction
You might not recognize his name at first, but if you’ve watched hit BBC shows such as Ghosts or Call the Midwife, you’ve seen the results of Kevin Corbishley’s work. Kevin was a highly respected light rigger and television crew member whose technical expertise helped create the visual worlds audiences enjoy. Although he worked behind the scenes, his contributions were significant — so much so that his colleagues honoured him with on-screen tributes after his untimely passing.
This article takes you behind the credits to explore who Kevin Corbishley was, his career, and why his legacy matters in the world of television production.
Who Was Kevin Corbishley?
Kevin Corbishley was born in 1965 and became a deeply valued member of the British film and television industry. He specialised in technical roles that were essential to production but rarely visible to the viewing audience. His work focused on lighting, rigging, and camera support — roles that require precision, creativity, and safety awareness.
Although not a household name, Kevin’s influence was felt in each scene of the shows he helped produce. His career is a reminder that television is made by collaborative teams, and every role — no matter how behind the scenes — contributes to the final magic audiences see.
Behind the Scenes: What a Light Rigger Does
You may wonder what a light rigger actually does. In film and TV production, this role is both technical and creative. A light rigger:
- Installs and secures lighting equipment overhead and across sets
- Works with directors of photography to achieve the desired mood and visual tone
- Ensures lighting rigs, scaffolding, power runs, and support systems are safe
- Troubleshoots gear during shooting so directors and actors can focus on performance
These tasks may not appear on screen, but they are vital to making each scene look exactly as intended. Without careful rigging and lighting, a show can struggle to convey the right atmosphere — whether it’s the warmth of a period drama or the playful tone of a comedy.
Kevin Corbishley’s Notable TV Credits
Kevin’s talent is reflected in the range of respected productions he worked on:
1. Call the Midwife
Kevin worked as a standby rigger on the long-running BBC drama Call the Midwife, helping with lighting setups that made the show’s historical settings feel authentic and visually engaging. His contribution spanned multiple episodes and played a part in some of the series’ most memorable moments.
2. Ghosts
Kevin’s work on the comedy series Ghosts is especially noted by fans and colleagues alike. He joined the crew around season 2 and continued through subsequent series, handling the lighting and rigging that helped balance the show’s humour and supernatural elements.
3. Anna Karenina (2012)
Earlier in his career, Kevin also worked in the art department on the acclaimed film adaptation Anna Karenina. This experience broadened his technical skillset for both film and television environments.
Industry Tributes and Legacy
Kevin’s passing in early 2022 was a significant loss to his colleagues. Rather than simply listing his name in the closing credits, two BBC productions chose to honour him publicly:
- Call the Midwife’s Season 11 finale included the on-screen dedication: “In memory of Kev Corbishley: 1965–2022.”
- Ghosts Season 4 premiere also featured the message: “In loving memory of our friend Kevin Corbishley.”
These tributes are meaningful in television production because they are rarely given to crew members unless their contribution and personal impact are deeply felt by the team. Tributes described him as not just a technician, but a dearly loved friend and colleague — proof of the respect he earned over years on set.
Why Kevin’s Work Matters
Most viewers focus on actors and directors — the names in the spotlight. But productions like Call the Midwife and Ghosts rely equally on the team behind the camera. Kevin’s work ensured scenes looked polished, emotionally resonant, and technically sound. That meant:
- Better visual storytelling
- Safer sets and lighting rigs
- A polished final product that audiences could enjoy
Even though viewers never saw him on screen, they felt the impact of his work every time a scene looked just right.
Remembering Kevin Corbishley
Kevin lived his life dedicated to making unforgettable television. Colleagues remember him as:
- Skilled and dependable
- Kind, collaborative, and personable
- Someone who elevated every production he worked on
His legacy serves as a reminder of how every role matters in creating the stories that entertain millions around the world.
FAQs About Kevin Corbishley
1. Who was Kevin Corbishley?
Kevin Corbishley was a British television crew member best known as a light rigger on BBC productions like Call the Midwife and Ghosts.
2. What did he do on TV shows?
He worked behind the scenes in lighting, rigging, and camera support, enabling directors and cinematographers to achieve the right visual environment for scenes.
3. Did he appear on screen?
No — his role was off-camera. But his contributions significantly shaped how scenes looked.
4. How did Ghosts pay tribute to Kevin?
The Ghosts Season 4 premiere included a dedication card reading: “In loving memory of our friend Kevin Corbishley,” honouring his contributions.
5. When did Kevin Corbishley pass away?
Kevin passed away in early 2022 at the age of 56 or 57.
Conclusion
Kevin Corbishley may not have been a household name, but his work was a fundamental part of the magic that makes great television. From the emotional depth of Call the Midwife to the delightful antics of Ghosts, his light rigging and technical expertise helped shape the viewing experience. The heartfelt tributes from his fellow crew members underscore that he was more than a technician — he was a respected colleague and friend.
As audiences continue to enjoy the shows he supported, Kevin’s legacy lives on, reminding us that the heart of television often beats behind the scenes.
