Laurence Olivier was born on May 22nd, 1907

Written by: Emma Thompson

The Iconic Laurence Olivier: A Thespian of Unparalleled Proportions

Renowned for his commanding stage presence and versatility in playing a wide range of roles, Laurence Olivier is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of the 20th century. Alongside his contemporaries Ralph Richardson and John Gielgud, Olivier dominated the British stage, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre and cinema.

The Early Years

Born on May 22, 1907, in Dorking, Surrey, England, Olivier's family had no theatrical connections. However, his father, a clergyman, recognized his son's talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in acting. Olivier honed his craft at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, followed by a series of acting jobs in the late 1920s.

Rise to Prominence

In 1930, Olivier achieved his first significant West End success in Noël Coward's Private Lives, alongside Gertrude Lawrence. This breakthrough role paved the way for his film debut in 1930. The 1935 production of Romeo and Juliet, alongside Gielgud and Peggy Ashcroft, cemented his status as a rising star.

The Old Vic and Beyond

In the 1940s, Olivier, Richardson, and John Burrell co-directed the Old Vic, transforming it into a prestigious theatre company. During this period, Olivier delivered iconic performances in Shakespeare's Richard III and Sophocles' Oedipus. His stage career continued to soar, with notable roles in The Entertainer (1957) and as the founding director of Britain's National Theatre (1963-1973).

Cinematic Success

Olivier's film career spanned over five decades, with notable roles in (1939), Rebecca (1940), and a trilogy of Shakespeare films: Henry V (1944), Hamlet (1948), and Richard III (1955). His later films include Spartacus (1960), The Shoes of the Fisherman (1968), Sleuth (1972), Marathon Man (1976), and The Boys from Brazil (1978).

Awards and Honors

• Academy Award for Best Actor for Hamlet (1948)
• BAFTA Award for Best British Actor for Richard III (1955)
• Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special for Long Day's Journey into Night (1973)
• Knighted in 1947 and created a life peer in 1970

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Olivier married three times, to actresses Jill Esmond, Vivien Leigh, and Joan Plowright. His relationship with Vivien Leigh, whom he married in 1945, was marked by a deep passion for both theatre and each other, but ended in divorce in 1960.

Legacy and Impact

Laurence Olivier's incredible body of work has left an indelible mark on the world of theatre and cinema. He inspired generations of actors, directors, and writers, and his legacy continues to be felt today. As a testament to his enduring impact, the National Theatre's largest auditorium, the Olivier Theatre, was named in his honor in 1977.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

Olivier once said, "The most sincere form of admiration is emulation." This quote captures the essence of his dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for the art of acting.

Laurence Olivier's remarkable life and career serve as a beacon of inspiration for artists and audiences alike, a testament to the transformative power of theatre and cinema to captivate, educate, and uplift.