Kevin Corbishley was a respected British rigger and camera support technician whose behind-the-scenes contributions helped shape some of the UK’s most beloved television series and films. Known professionally as both Kevin Corbishley and Kev Corbishley, he built a remarkable career through his technical skill, reliability, and warm presence on set. Though he worked outside the spotlight, his impact was deeply felt by cast and crew across the industry.
This article explores who Kevin Corbishley was, the type of work he did, the productions he contributed to, and the legacy he left behind.
Who Was Kevin Corbishley?
Kevin Corbishley was a long-standing figure in the British film and television industry. Born in 1965, he spent much of his life working in the camera and electrical departments of major productions. His colleagues often spoke highly of his friendly nature, professionalism, and the calm confidence he brought to demanding filming environments.
Sadly, Kevin Corbishley passed away in late 2021 or early 2022 at the age of 56. His death was felt profoundly across the productions he was part of, leading several shows to pay tribute to him in heartfelt memorial messages aired with their episodes.
Despite not being a public figure, Kevin’s legacy continues to live on through the shows he helped bring to life and the crew members who remember him as an essential part of their teams.
What Kind of Work Did Kevin Corbishley Do?
Kevin Corbishley specialized as a rigger and camera support technician, two essential roles in film and TV production. Although these jobs often remain unseen by audiences, they are crucial for the smooth running of any professional set.
The Role of a Rigger
As a rigger, Kevin was responsible for setting up the equipment that supports cameras, lighting rigs, and other essential gear. This includes:
- Building and maintaining camera platforms
- Setting up scaffolding and supports
- Ensuring rigging safety for cast and crew
- Assisting camera operators by preparing stable shooting environments
- Installing lighting and electrical setups as needed
Rigging requires technical expertise, physical strength, and acute attention to detail. Safety is a major part of the job, as poorly secured equipment can lead to dangerous situations. Kevin’s long career is a testament to his skill and dedication to safety and craftsmanship.
Camera Support Technician Responsibilities
In addition to rigging, Kevin Corbishley supported the camera department. His responsibilities may have included:
- Handling camera mounts, cranes, and dollies
- Assisting with camera moves and setups
- Maintaining equipment throughout production
- Working closely with cinematographers and camera operators
This kind of work demands teamwork, precision, and deep knowledge of the technical side of filmmaking—all qualities that Kevin was known for.
Kevin Corbishley’s Film and Television Contributions
Throughout his career, Kevin Corbishley worked on a variety of well-known productions. His credits spanned film, television dramas, and comedy series. Some of his most notable contributions include:
Call the Midwife (2020–2022)
Perhaps Kevin’s most recognized work was on the long-running BBC drama Call the Midwife. He served as a standby rigger, credited as Kev Corbishley, for 17 episodes.
As a standby rigger, he remained on set during filming, ensuring all rigging remained secure and adapting equipment as scenes changed. His role supported the show’s emotional storytelling by helping create a safe, stable environment for cast and crew.
The show’s Season 11 finale was dedicated to him with the message:
“In memory of Kev Corbishley: 1965–2022.”
This tribute reflects the deep appreciation the production team had for him.
Ghosts (2019–2022)
Kevin also worked on the hit BBC comedy Ghosts as a rigger for six episodes between 2019 and 2022. The show blends humor with heartfelt storytelling, requiring creative camera setups and carefully managed studio environments—tasks that rigs and supports play a key role in.
The team behind Ghosts honored Kevin by dedicating the first episode of Season 4, titled “Happy Holiday”, to his memory.
Anna Karenina (2012)
Kevin is also credited with contributing to the 2012 film Anna Karenina, a visually rich period drama starring Keira Knightley. While details of his specific duties vary, his involvement in such a major production shows the level of trust and expertise he brought to his craft.
Responsible Child (2019)
Kevin worked as a standby rigger on this dramatic television film as well. Responsible Child was critically acclaimed and required a high level of technical precision to support its intense, emotional storytelling.
Why Was Kevin Corbishley So Highly Respected?
Film and TV crews often become like family, spending long hours together under high-pressure conditions. Kevin Corbishley earned the admiration of his colleagues not only for his technical expertise but also for his kindness and dedication.
People described him as:
- Warm and approachable
- Reliable and steady under pressure
- Highly skilled at his craft
- A positive presence on set
The decision by two major productions to dedicate episodes to him—something usually reserved for iconic cast or high-level crew—speaks volumes about how deeply valued and loved he was.
Kevin Corbishley’s Lasting Legacy
Though Kevin Corbishley’s work took place behind the scenes, it was essential to the success of every project he touched. His contributions supported the storytelling, visual quality, and safety of numerous productions watched by millions.
His legacy includes:
- Memorable shows like Call the Midwife and Ghosts
- The technical foundations that allowed filmmakers to realize their creative visions
- A positive impact on colleagues who carry his memory forward
Tributes to Kevin Corbishley remind audiences that filmmaking is a collaborative art form. The people behind the camera—riggers, technicians, grips, gaffers—are just as important as those in front of it. Kevin’s life and career stand as a beautiful example of this truth.
Conclusion
Kevin Corbishley was much more than a rigger or camera support technician—he was a beloved member of the British film and TV community. Through his work on productions like Call the Midwife, Ghosts, Anna Karenina, and Responsible Child, he helped bring unforgettable stories to the screen while earning the admiration of everyone around him.
Though his life was cut tragically short, the legacy of Kevin Corbishley continues to shine through the shows he helped create and the people he touched.
If you’re searching to understand who Kevin Corbishley was and what kind of work he did, his career reflects a life of dedication, skill, and genuine warmth—qualities that will always be remembered.