Laurence Olivier

Date of Birth: May 22, 1907

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: July 11, 1989

Biography

Laurence Olivier, born Laurence Kerr Olivier, was an English actor and director, widely considered one of the greatest actors of the 20th century. He was born on May 22, 1907, in Dorking, Surrey, England. Olivier’s career spanned over six decades, during which he excelled in both stage and film acting. He was known for his powerful presence, versatility, and mastery of the classical repertoire, particularly the works of William Shakespeare. Olivier began his acting career in the 1920s, quickly making a name for himself in the London theatre scene. By the 1930s, he had transitioned to film and gained international fame. His notable film roles include “Wuthering Heights” (1939), “Rebecca” (1940), “Hamlet” (1948), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and “Spartacus” (1960). He was knighted in 1947 and later made a life peer, becoming Baron Olivier of Brighton in 1970. In addition to his acting achievements, Olivier was also a distinguished director. He directed several acclaimed films, including “Henry V” (1944), “Hamlet” (1948), and “Richard III” (1955). He was the founding director of the National Theatre in London, serving from 1963 to 1973. Laurence Olivier passed away on July 11, 1989, in Ashurst, West Sussex, England, at the age of 82. He left behind a legacy of extraordinary performances and contributions to the arts that continue to inspire actors and audiences alike.

5 Interesting Facts about Laurence Olivier

1. Laurence Olivier was the first actor to be made a peer of the realm, becoming Baron Olivier of Brighton in 1970.

2. He directed and starred in the 1948 film adaptation of “Hamlet,” which won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

3. Olivier co-founded the National Theatre in London and served as its first artistic director from 1963 to 1973.

4. He was married three times, most notably to actress Vivien Leigh, with whom he had a tumultuous but iconic relationship.

5. Olivier was known for his meticulous preparation and often underwent physical transformations for his roles, including changing his voice and appearance.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Laurence Olivier

1. “Acting is illusion, as much illusion as magic is, and not so much a matter of being real.”

2. “I take a simple view of life: keep your eyes open and get on with it.”

3. “Without acting, I cannot breathe.”

4. “I believe in the theater; I believe in it as the first glamorizer of thought. It restores dramatic dynamics and their relations to life size.”

5. “We have all, at one time or another, been performers, and many of us still are – politicians, playboys, cardinals and kings.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Laurence Olivier’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.

Children

Laurence Olivier had three children: 1. Tarquin Olivier, born on August 21, 1936, with his first wife, Jill Esmond. 2. Richard Kerr Olivier, born in December 1961, with his third wife, Joan Plowright. 3. Tamsin Agnes Margaret Olivier, born on January 10, 1963, also with Joan Plowright.