Laurence Olivier was a man of many talents. An actor, director, and producer, he was widely regarded as one of the greatest performers of the 20th century. Born in 1907 in Surrey, England, Olivier began his career on stage before transitioning to film and television.

Olivier’s career spanned over five decades, during which he won numerous awards and accolades for his work. He was known for his ability to bring complex characters to life with depth and nuance, and his performances were often praised for their emotional intensity and authenticity. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life and legacy of this iconic figure in the world of entertainment.

Laurence Olivier was a renowned English actor, director, and producer. He was born on May 22, 1907, in Dorking, Surrey, England. Olivier is considered one of the greatest actors of the 20th century and is best known for his roles in classic films such as “Hamlet” and “Henry V.” He was also a distinguished stage actor and served as the director of the National Theatre in London. Olivier was knighted in 1947 and later became a peer of the realm in 1970. He passed away on July 11, 1989, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional performances.

Some Hidden Facts About Laurence Olivier

Physical Statistics

Height (Tall)	5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
Weight	Unknown
Profession	Actor, Director, Producer
Eye Color	Blue
Shoe Size (UK)	9
Hair Color	Brown

Laurence Olivier was a renowned British actor, director, and producer. He was 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) tall, had blue eyes, and brown hair. His weight is unknown. He wore a size 9 shoe (UK).

Family

Laurence Olivier, born on May 22, 1907, was an English actor, director, and producer, widely considered one of the greatest actors of the 20th century. He passed away on July 11, 1989, at the age of 82.

Unknown Facts about Laurence Olivier

Who was Laurence Olivier?

Laurence Olivier is a name that needs no introduction in the world of acting. He was considered one of the greatest actors of the 20th century and was a prominent figure in British theater, television, and film. He was known for his exceptional range and versatility in portraying complex characters, and his contributions to the industry have been immeasurable. But, did you know that there are many unknown facts about this legendary actor? Let’s explore some of them in this article.

What are some of the lesser-known facts about Laurence Olivier?

Despite being a household name, many people are still unaware of some of the lesser-known facts about Laurence Olivier. For instance, did you know that he was a trained fighter pilot during World War II? Or that he was once considered for the role of James Bond? Olivier also had a long-standing feud with fellow actor Marlon Brando, and he was the first actor to receive an honorary Academy Award for his lifetime achievements. These are just a few of the many intriguing facts about this remarkable actor.

Why should you read this article?

If you’re a fan of Laurence Olivier or simply interested in learning more about one of the greatest actors of all time, then this article is a must-read. We’ve dug deep into the archives to bring you some of the most fascinating and unknown facts about this legendary figure. Whether you’re an aspiring actor or simply a lover of the arts, this article promises to be an insightful and entertaining read that will leave you in awe of Olivier’s talent and legacy. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the world of Laurence Olivier and discover some of the fascinating facts that make him one of the greatest actors of all time.

Laurence Olivier

Early Life and Career

Laurence Olivier, one of the greatest actors of the 20th century, was born on May 22, 1907, in Dorking, Surrey, England. His father, Gerard Olivier, was a clergyman, and his mother, Agnes Louise Crookenden, was a piano teacher. Olivier attended All Saints Choir School in London and then went on to study at the Central School of Speech Training and Dramatic Art.

At the age of 18, Olivier made his stage debut in a production of “The Pilgrim’s Progress.” He quickly gained a reputation as a talented actor and went on to perform in numerous productions, including “Hamlet” and “Henry V.”

Early Career Highlights

One of Olivier’s early career highlights was his performance as Romeo in a production of “Romeo and Juliet” at the Old Vic Theatre in London. He also played the lead in a production of “Richard III” at the same theater.

In 1937, Olivier made his film debut in “Fire Over England.” He went on to star in numerous films, including “Wuthering Heights,” “Rebecca,” and “Spartacus.”

Major Achievements and Awards

Olivier’s career was marked by numerous achievements and awards. In 1944, he co-founded the Old Vic Theatre Company with Ralph Richardson and John Burrell. He also directed and starred in numerous productions at the National Theatre in London, including “Othello” and “The Entertainer.”

Academy Awards

Olivier was nominated for nine Academy Awards during his career and won four. He won Best Actor for his performances in “Hamlet” and “Henry V,” and Best Picture and Best Director for “Hamlet.”

Other Awards and Achievements

In addition to his Academy Awards, Olivier received numerous other awards and honors during his career. He was knighted in 1947 and made a life peer in 1970. He was also awarded the Order of Merit in 1981, one of the highest honors in the United Kingdom.

Personal Life and Legacy

Olivier was married three times during his life. His first two marriages, to Jill Esmond and Vivien Leigh, both ended in divorce. He was married to his third wife, Joan Plowright, from 1961 until his death in 1989.

Legacy

Olivier’s legacy as an actor and director is still felt today. His performances in films like “Hamlet” and “Henry V” are considered some of the greatest in cinematic history. He also helped to bring Shakespeare to a wider audience, both through his films and his stage productions.

Influence on Future Actors and Directors

Olivier’s influence on future actors and directors cannot be overstated. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, and his work continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Memorials and Honors

Several memorials and honors have been established in Olivier’s name, including the Laurence Olivier Awards, which recognize excellence in British theater, and the Olivier Theatre, which is part of the National Theatre in London.

Laurence Olivier was one of the most celebrated actors of the 20th century. He was a versatile performer who excelled in both stage and screen productions. Olivier was known for his impeccable acting skills, his commanding presence, and his ability to bring complex characters to life.

Throughout his career, Olivier received numerous awards and accolades for his work. He won multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTA awards for his performances. He was also recognized with a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to the arts.

Despite his success, Olivier remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He believed in the power of storytelling and the importance of bringing characters to life on stage and screen. He inspired a generation of actors and his legacy continues to influence the world of theater and film today.

In conclusion, Laurence Olivier was a true icon of the entertainment industry. His incredible talent, dedication to his craft, and unwavering passion for storytelling made him one of the greatest actors of all time. His performances will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.