Christopher Plummer was a Canadian-American actor known for his roles in The Sound of Music, Beginners, and A Beautiful Mind. He was praised for his rich voice and ability to play both charming and morally complex characters throughout his long career.
Personal and Family Life
Christopher Plummer, born Arthur Christopher Orme Plummer on December 13, 1929, in Toronto, Ontario, was raised in a well-connected family. His mother, Isabella Mary Abbott, was a secretary, and his father, John Orme Plummer, worked in finance. He had a notable lineage; he was related to Canada’s third Prime Minister, John Abbott. Plummer was married three times, with his last marriage to Elaine Taylor lasting from 1970 until his death in 2021.
Career
Early in his career, Plummer struggled to find fame in films, despite being a celebrated stage actor. Over the years, he transformed into a respected character actor, gaining recognition for his roles in various films and productions. His performance as Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music became iconic, though he had mixed feelings about the film. He received numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Beginners, making him the oldest Oscar winner at the age of 82.
Death and Legacy
Christopher Plummer passed away on February 5, 2021, at the age of 91 in Weston, Connecticut, due to complications from a fall. His contributions to film and theater have left a lasting legacy, with many considering him one of the greatest actors from Canada. He is remembered not only for his impressive performances but also for his charm and wit.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Twelve Monkeys | 1995-12-29 | Dr. Goines |
| Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country | 1991-12-06 | General Chang |
| Syriana | 2005-11-23 | Dean Whiting |
| Inside Man | 2006-03-17 | Arthur Case |
| A Beautiful Mind | 2001-12-14 | Dr. Rosen |
| The Man Who Would Be King | 1975-12-03 | Rudyard Kipling |
| Dragnet | 1987-06-23 | Reverend Jonathan Whirley |
| Malcolm X | 1992-11-18 | Chaplain Gill |
| Alexander | 2004-11-21 | Aristotle |
| The Lake House | 2006-06-16 | Simon Wyler |
| National Treasure | 2004-11-19 | John Adams Gates |
| Wolf | 1994-06-17 | Raymond Alden |
| Dracula 2000 | 2000-12-22 | Matthew Van Helsing |
| The Sound of Music | 1965-03-29 | Captain Georg von Trapp |
| The Last Station | 2009-09-04 | Leo Tolstoy |
| Beginners | 2010-06-17 | Hal |