Felix Aylmer

Felix Aylmer was a British actor, best known for his roles in “Henry V,” “Oh Brother!,” and “Quo Vadis.” He had a long career in both stage and film, recognized for his distinctive voice and elderly characters.

Personal and Family Life

Felix Aylmer was born on February 21, 1889, in Corsham, Wiltshire, England. He was married to Cecily Byrne from September 1915 until her death in June 1975, and they had two children together. Aylmer received his education at Oxford University and later studied drama, which paved the way for his successful acting career.

Career Highlights

Aylmer made his stage debut at the London Coliseum in 1911 and continued to work in theatre until World War I, where he served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. After the war, he returned to acting, transitioning into film in 1930. He became particularly known for his portrayal of elderly characters, most notably the Archbishop of Canterbury in Laurence Olivier’s “Henry V” released in 1944.

Death and Legacy

Felix Aylmer passed away on September 2, 1979, in Pyrford, Woking, Surrey, England, due to natural causes. His contribution to film and theatre has left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated by fans of classic cinema. Aylmer is remembered for his profound impact on British acting and his ability to bring depth to his characters.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
Exodus1960-12-15Dr. Lieberman
The Case of the Frightened Lady1940-09-28Dr. Amersham
Quo Vadis1951-11-08Plautius
The Road to Hong Kong1962-03-29Grand Lama
Ivanhoe1952-07-31Isaac
Night Train to Munich1940-08-31Dr. Fredericks
Separate Tables1958-12-18Mr. Fowler
Becket1964-03-11Archbishop of Canterbury
As You Like It1936-09-02Duke Frederick
Prince of Foxes1949-11-11Marc Antonio Verano
Bank Holiday1938-01-27Dr. Nichols
Anastasia1956-12-13Chamberlain
The Shadow1933-03-02Sir Richard Bryant
The Chalk Garden1964-04-02Judge McWhirrey
Never Take Sweets from a Stranger1960-03-04Clarence Olderberry Sr.
The Mummy1959-08-01Stephen Banning
The Hands of Orlac1960-12-01Dr. Francis Cochrane
Seven Sinners1936-06-01Sir Charles Webber
Knights of the Round Table1953-12-22Merlin
Your Witness1950-03-06The British Judge
The Citadel1938-10-29Mr. Boon
Hostile Witness1968-11-01Justice Osborne
The Years Between1946-07-08Sir Ernest Foster
Saint Joan1957-05-08Inquisitor
Alice au pays des Merveilles1949-05-13Dr. Liddel / The Cheshire Cat (voice)
The Running Man1963-10-01Parson
The Two-Headed Spy1958-11-17Cornaz
The Ghost of St. Michael’s1941-04-01Dr Winter
Time Flies1944-05-08The Professor
The Ghosts of Berkeley Square1947-10-30Colonel “Bulldog” Kelsoe
Dusty Ermine1936-12-01Police Commissioner
The Black Sheep of Whitehall1942-02-23Crabtree
The Doctor’s Dilemma1959-01-01Sir Patrick Cullen
The Ghost Camera1933-01-31Coroner
The Peterville Diamond1943-01-11The President
I Accuse!1958-03-05Edgar Demange
The Demi-Paradise1943-11-18Mr. Runalow
Mr. Emmanuel1944-08-02Mr. Emmanuel
Green Fingers1947-06-02Daniel Booth
The Ace of Spades1935-02-09Lord Yardleigh
The Rat