The world of television production often keeps its unsung heroes behind the scenes—those who make everything look effortless, even though their efforts are far from invisible. Among them was Kev Corbishley, a dedicated crew member whose work left its mark on beloved British series such as Call the Midwife and Ghosts. This blog post pays tribute to his life, his contribution, and why his passing resonated deeply within the industry.
Who Was Kev Corbishley?
Kev Corbishley (alternatively spelled “Kevin Corbishley” in some sources) worked behind the cameras as a lighting rigger (and possibly in other technical roles) on major BBC productions. One source identifies him by that role on Ghosts.
Radio Times
Early in his career, he also worked on the medical‑period drama Call the Midwife, contributing as part of the crew. A tribute in that show’s season 11 finale read: “In memory of Kev Corbishley: 1965‑2022.”
Radio Times+2kemifilani.ng+2
In essence, Kev represented the backbone of television production: the expert crew member who ensures that lights‑are‑set, scenes‑are‑lit, and cameras‑capture the moment. Though not always in the credits we scan, people like Kev make the magic happen.
His Impact on TV Production
1. Technical excellence
Working as a lighting rigger means handling heavy equipment, setting up lights safely and effectively, managing power distribution, collaborating with cinematographers and the technical team, and ensuring everything runs smoothly during shooting. In multi‑camera or location shoots (such as in period dramas, or comedies with ensemble casts), this role is crucial for visuals, continuity, and maintaining schedule.
For a show like Ghosts, which blends comedy, fantasy, and period detail, lighting plays a big role in establishing tone, atmosphere, and character. Kev’s work on that show, season 2 onward, placed him at the intersection of comedy and technical craft.
Radio Times+1
2. Reliability and teamwork
The tributes to Kev emphasise that he was “a dearly loved member of our crew” and that his passing was felt deeply by cast and crew alike. That tells us that beyond technical skill, Kev brought personal integrity, collaboration, and consistency—qualities that matter enormously on long shoots, tight schedules, and challenging conditions.
Radio Times
3. Inspiration for behind‑the‑scenes workers
By honours in televised credits and tributes, Kev’s name becomes a reminder of how many people contribute to what the audience sees. For those working in‑between the shadows—riggers, grips, electricians, production assistants—Kev’s recognition shows that their work matters, and it can be acknowledged.
The Tribute & Legacy
When Ghosts season 4 premiered, it included a dedication: “In loving memory of our friend Kev Corbishley,” acknowledging his work on the show from season 2 onward and his passing during early stages of the season’s production.
Radio Times
Later, Call the Midwife season 11 honoured him with: “In memory of Kev Corbishley: 1965‑2022.”
kemifilani.ng+1
These tributes matter for several reasons:
- They publicly recognise the contribution of a crew member who is not a household name, affirming that the entire production family is valued.
- They create a small legacy for Kev, enabling colleagues, friends, and viewers to remember his name and contributions.
- They underscore the human side of production—so often we see actors, directors, writers—but production crew face real risks (long hours, travel, hazards on set) and the mental/emotional load of a demanding environment.
Why His Story Matters
A. The human behind the name
Behind the screen credit is a human being: Kev worked, perhaps travelled, handled equipment, adapted to changes, supported others, and brought light—literally and metaphorically—to scenes we now see on‑screen. His loss is a reminder that every production has such people whose names we might not know but whose presence makes the difference.
B. Highlighting the production workforce
Much of media—especially popular culture—is actor/director‑centric. But a high‑end TV series requires massive crews: lighting, grip, camera, sound, set, wardrobe, makeup, logistics, production management. Each link must hold. Kev embodied one of those links. His recognition prompts reflection on how we value production roles and the wellness of those working behind the scenes.
C. A snapshot of grief and commemoration
The inclusion of a tribute message in a televised episode is significant—it shows that the production team openly acknowledges grief and loss, and includes the viewer in that remembrance. For audiences, it may be the first time recognising that the people behind the scenes are part of the family of the show.
Lessons & Takeaways from Kev’s Work
- Professionalism counts. Whether you’re on‑screen or off‑screen, showing up reliably, supporting other team members and staying consistent matters. Kev’s presence across seasons of major shows shows how continuity and reliability help a production thrive.
- Team‑mindset matters. Production is collaborative. A lighting rigging role must sync with cinematographers, directors, other crew. The best work happens when you see yourself as part of the team, not just your isolated task.
- Your name may not be known—but your work is. Few will know Kev’s name before this blog, but many have seen his work—because we were able to watch Call the Midwife, Ghosts, etc. A career doesn’t need fame to matter; end‑to‑end excellence matters.
- Life is fragile; commemoration matters. The tribute shows that production crews can be close knit; losing a member affects people deeply. It signals to everyone in the industry that you are part of a greater whole—and your well‑being matters.
- Behind‑the‑scenes roles have power. The role of lighting rigging may seem technical, but it influences mood, tone, emotion, and audience experience. So whether we think of acting or directing as “glamorous,” the technical roles carry their own artistry and responsibility.
Reflecting on the Shows He Worked On
Call the Midwife
As a long‑running period drama, Call the Midwife depends on authenticity: set design, costumes, lighting, and cinematography all help transport the viewer to mid‑20th‑century London and its environs. That means lighting rigs must adapt to period‑appropriate aesthetics (for example, gaslight or early electricity, indoor/outdoor transitions, home interiors) and shooting conditions that may vary. Kev’s role as part of the crew would have involved handling those demands—ensuring historic tone through lighting while keeping modern production efficiencies.
Ghosts
Ghosts presents a different challenge: comedy, supernatural elements, multiple time‑period ghosts, and a mixture of interior and exterior sets. Lighting in such a show helps create comedic timing, ghostly ambiance, and shifting moods—from humour to heartfelt moments. The fact that the production honoured Kev underscores that his role was valued in that creative mix.
A Tribute to the Production Community
In writing about Kev Corbishley, we also honour every technician, grip, rigger, electrician, sound‑operator, logistics‑manager, who works tirelessly behind the camera. Their names may not be on marquees, but their contributions enable the stories, characters, laughs, tears and moments that we cherish on screen. When a show thanks someone explicitly—like the tribute to Kev—it reminds all of us in the audience: “Yes, there is someone you don’t know but you’re benefiting from their talent, dedication, care.”
Final Thoughts
Kev Corbishley’s name now lives in the credits and tributes of major BBC shows. His legacy is one of professionalism, kindness, collaboration—and the essential truth that great television is built on a foundation of hidden, yet indispensable work. For fans of the shows he worked on, noticing his name in the tribute might prompt reflection: behind every scene we love, there are countless people who made it possible.
