Peter O’Toole

Date of Birth: August 2, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: December 14, 2013

Biography

Peter O’Toole was an acclaimed Irish actor, best known for his portrayal of T.E. Lawrence in the epic film “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962). Born on August 2, 1932, in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland, he spent his early years in England and Ireland. O’Toole’s career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the most respected actors of his generation. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began his career on stage, later transitioning to film. O’Toole’s breakout role came with “Lawrence of Arabia,” earning him the first of eight Academy Award nominations. Despite never winning a competitive Oscar, he received an Honorary Academy Award in 2003 for his lifelong contribution to film. His other notable films include “Becket” (1964), “The Lion in Winter” (1968), “Goodbye, Mr. Chips” (1969), and “My Favorite Year” (1982). Peter O’Toole was known for his charismatic screen presence, deep voice, and intense performances. Off-screen, he was equally famous for his bohemian lifestyle and wit. He passed away on December 14, 2013, in London, England, at the age of 81.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter O’Toole

1. Peter O’Toole was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor eight times but never won in a competitive category.

2. He served in the Royal Navy as a signalman before pursuing an acting career.

3. O’Toole was a close friend of fellow actors Richard Burton and Richard Harris.

4. He was a heavy drinker for much of his life and even underwent major surgery in the 1970s to address health issues related to alcohol.

5. In addition to his film work, O’Toole had a notable stage career, including performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Peter O’Toole

1. “I’m a professional and I’ll do anything – a poetry reading, television, cinema, anything that allows me to act.”

2. “For me, life has either been a wake or a wedding.”

3. “The only exercise I take is walking behind the coffins of friends who took exercise.”

4. “I will not be a common man. I will stir the smooth sands of monotony.”

5. “We were like the three musketeers. Richard Burton, Richard Harris, and myself. We were gentlemen rogues.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Peter O’Toole’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.

Children

Peter O’Toole had three children: two daughters, Kate O’Toole and Patricia O’Toole, from his marriage to actress Siân Phillips, and a son, Lorcan O’Toole, with his former girlfriend, model Karen Brown.