Lesley Manville

Lesley Manville

Lesley Manville was born on March 12th, 1956

Full Name: Lesley Ann Manville
Nationality: English
Profession: Actress
Place of Birth: Brighton, England
Born on: March 12, 1956
Notable Roles: River, Mum
Awards: Laurence Olivier Award winner
Partner: Joe Dixon

Acclaimed for her nuanced portrayals of complex characters in film, television, and theater, she is a highly respected and award-winning actress, particularly recognized for her work in Mike Leigh's dramas.

Written by: Isabel Sanchez Isabel Sanchez

The Inimitable Lesley Manville: A Look into the Life of a Veteran Actress

Lesley Manville is a highly acclaimed English actress, best known for her remarkable collaborations with the celebrated director Mike Leigh. Her impressive filmography boasts a range of iconic roles in films like Grown Ups (1980), High Hopes (1988), Secrets & Lies (1996), Topsy-Turvy (1999), and Vera Drake (2004), showcasing her versatility and talent.

Early Life and Career

Born on March 12, 1956, in Brighton, England, Manville's journey into the world of acting began at a young age. She started her career on stage, appearing in various productions, including Chorus Girls (1981) and Top Girls (1982). Her breakthrough in film came with Mike Leigh's Grown Ups, marking the beginning of a long-lasting and fruitful collaboration.

Award-Winning Performances

Manville's exceptional performances have earned her numerous award nominations, including two British Academy Film Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress for her roles in Another Year (2010) and Phantom Thread (2017). Her performance in the latter also secured her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Television and Stage Career

In addition to her film work, Manville has had an extensive career in television, with notable roles in series such as Emmerdale (1974-1976), Cranford (2007), and The Crown (2022-2023), where she portrayed Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. Her stage career has seen her excel in productions like His Dark Materials (2005) and Six Degrees of Separation (2012).

Influence and Impact

Lesley Manville's contributions to the world of acting have left an indelible mark on the industry. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to bring complex characters to life have inspired countless actors and actresses. Her collaborations with Mike Leigh have resulted in some of the most iconic films of our time, cementing her status as a British acting legend.

Personal Life and Milestones

Manville's personal life has been marked by key milestones, including her marriage to actor Gary Oldman in 1987, with whom she had a son, Alfie. Despite her success, she has remained humble and dedicated to her craft, continuing to inspire audiences with her remarkable performances.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Through her work, Manville has shown a deep understanding of the human experience, bringing nuance and empathy to her characters. Her commitment to her craft is a testament to her passion for storytelling and her desire to leave a lasting impact on the world of acting.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Lesley Manville's remarkable career is a testament to her dedication, talent, and perseverance. Her contributions to the world of acting have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of actors and actresses to come.

Timeline
1956
Born in Brighton
Lesley Manville was born on March 12, 1956, in Brighton, East Sussex, England.
1978
Began Acting Career
Manville began her acting career in 1978, performing in various stage productions.
1994
National Theatre Debut
Manville made her National Theatre debut in 1994, in a production of Top Girls.
2010
BAFTA Nomination
Manville was nominated for a BAFTA Award for her role in the film Another Year in 2010.
2014
Olivier Award Winner
Manville won the Olivier Award for Best Actress for her role in Ghost in 2014.
Lesley Manville

Lesley Manville Quiz

What type of performances has Lesley Manville been acclaimed for?

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FAQ
What is Lesley Manvilles most notable film role?
Lesley Manvilles most notable film role is perhaps her portrayal of Mary in Mike Leighs 2010 film Another Year, for which she received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.
What is Lesley Manvilles experience working with Mike Leigh?
Lesley Manville has collaborated with director Mike Leigh on several projects, including All or Nothing, Secrets & Lies, and Vera Drake. Their long-standing creative partnership has resulted in some of her most memorable performances.
What awards has Lesley Manville won?
Lesley Manville has won several awards for her performances, including the London Film Critics Circle Award for Actress of the Year and the National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Actress.
What is Lesley Manvilles approach to character development?
Lesley Manville is known for her intense preparation and research when developing her characters. She has said that she draws inspiration from personal experiences and observations to create nuanced and complex performances.
What is Lesley Manvilles views on womens roles in film?
Lesley Manville has spoken out about the importance of strong, complex female characters in film. She has advocated for more opportunities for women in the industry and has used her platform to promote gender equality.

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