Born into a theatrical dynasty while his parents toured plays in Preston, Parker crafted a distinctive comedy magic routine featuring Theodore the rabbit, starring in children's TV staples like Whistle Stop, Jackanory, Crackerjack and Blue Peter during the 1960s and 1970s. His act evolved for global appeal, headlining in Paris cabarets, Tokyo nightclubs and Rome venues amid the 1980s club circuit shift. Parker penned the centenary book for the Club for Acts and Actors, where he served two terms as president, and regularly performed at London's Players Theatre. Inner Magic Circle member with broad magic interests, he also wrote for Tyne Tees' Happy Go Lucky series that aired six years.