Charles Gray was an English actor who is best known for playing Ernst Stavro Blofeld in Diamonds Are Forever, Dikko Henderson in You Only Live Twice, and Mocata in The Devil Rides Out. He was recognized for his distinctive silky voice and commanding presence on screen.
Personal and Family Life
Born on August 29, 1928, in Bournemouth, England, Charles Gray was the son of surveyor Donald Gray and Maude Elizabeth Marshall. He initially trained as a clerk for a real estate agent but decided to pursue a career in acting instead. Gray received vocal training at the Royal Shakespeare Company and Old Vic, where his voice became one of his key attributes.
Acting Career
Gray made his theatrical debut in 1952 and later achieved acclaim for his dramatic roles, including performances in “Macbeth” and “Troilus and Cressida.” He became well-known in film and television for playing suave villains and upper-class characters, often using his robust voice and imposing stature to great effect. Throughout his career, he had notable roles in various productions, both on stage and screen.
Death and Legacy
Charles Gray passed away on March 7, 2000, from throat cancer in London, at the age of 71. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances, especially his role as Blofeld, which remains iconic in the James Bond franchise. Gray is remembered for his remarkable ability to inhabit complex characters with ease.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| You Only Live Twice | 1967-06-13 | Dikko Henderson |
| Diamonds Are Forever | 1971-12-14 | Ernst Stavro Blofeld |
| Masquerade | 1965-04-13 | Benson |
| Cromwell | 1970-08-14 | The Earl of Essex |
| The Secret War of Harry Frigg | 1968-02-29 | Gen. Adrian Cox-Roberts |
| Shock Treatment | 1981-08-21 | Judge Oliver Wright |
| The Devil Rides Out | 1968-07-20 | Mocata |
| The Mirror Crack’d | 1980-09-19 | Bates, The Butler |
| The Seven-Per-Cent Solution | 1976-10-24 | Mycroft Holmes |
| Upstairs, Downstairs | 1971-10-10 | Sir Edwin Partridge |