Cedric Hardwicke

Date of Birth: February 19, 1893

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 6, 1964

Biography

Sir Cedric Webster Hardwicke was a distinguished English actor who had a prolific career spanning stage, film, and television. Born on February 19, 1893, in Lye, Worcestershire, England, Cedric Hardwicke became one of the most respected actors of his time. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where he honed his craft and made his stage debut in 1912. Hardwicke’s career was marked by versatility and excellence, earning him a knighthood in 1934 for his contributions to the performing arts, making him one of the youngest actors to receive the honor. His stage work included noteworthy performances in Shakespearean plays, as well as works by contemporary playwrights like Bernard Shaw. Transitioning to film, Hardwicke appeared in numerous classic movies, including “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1939), “The Ghost of Frankenstein” (1942), and “The Ten Commandments” (1956). His deep, resonant voice and commanding presence made him a natural for both heroic and villainous roles. Hardwicke continued to work in film and television into his later years. He passed away on August 6, 1964, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances that continue to be celebrated.

5 Interesting Facts about Cedric Hardwicke

1. Cedric Hardwicke was knighted in 1934 at the age of 41, making him one of the youngest actors to receive this honor.

2. He was a founding member of the Old Vic Theatre Company in London, which played a significant role in revitalizing interest in Shakespearean drama.

3. Hardwicke had a unique ability to play both sympathetic and villainous characters with equal skill, which made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood.

4. He was a close friend of playwright George Bernard Shaw and appeared in several of Shaw’s plays, including “Saint Joan” and “Caesar and Cleopatra.”

5. Hardwicke’s voice was so distinctive and authoritative that he narrated several documentaries and commercials later in his career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cedric Hardwicke

1. “I have been on the stage since I was 20 and have never been out of work since. I have never had a failure.”

2. “When actors are talking, they are servants of the dramatist. It is what they can make the audience see and hear that counts.”

3. “I never could stand the sight of blood, but I could always stand the sight of money.”

4. “The actor should be able to create the universe in the palm of his hand.”

5. “The greatest reward in acting is the satisfaction of having been able to give something of yourself to the audience.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Cedric Hardwicke’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, a substantial sum for his time.

Children

Cedric Hardwicke had one son, Edward Hardwicke, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a respected actor himself. Edward is best known for his portrayal of Dr. Watson in the Sherlock Holmes television series alongside Jeremy Brett.