John Hurt was an English actor known for his roles in The Elephant Man, Alien, and Harry Potter series. With a career spanning over six decades, he earned acclaim for his ability to play a diverse range of characters.
Personal and Family Life
John Hurt was born on January 22, 1940, in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England. He was the youngest of three children of an engineer and a clergyman. Hurt had four marriages throughout his life and had two sons from his second marriage. He was described as a shy person despite his extensive acting career.
Career Highlights
Hurt began his acting career in the 1960s after training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He quickly became known for his intense and profound performances in both theater and film. Some of his most notable works include The Naked Civil Servant, Midnight Express, and I, Claudius, where he portrayed memorable roles that showcased his talent.
Death and Legacy
John Hurt passed away on January 25, 2017, at the age of 77 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was remembered as one of the great talents of his generation, with a unique voice and a remarkable ability to connect with audiences. Hurt left behind a significant legacy in film and television, influencing countless actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Lord of the Rings | 1978-11-15 | Aragorn (voice) |
| Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone | 2001-11-16 | Mr. Ollivander |
| V for Vendetta | 2006-02-23 | Chancellor Adam Sutler |
| The Elephant Man | 1980-10-09 | John Merrick |
| Alien | 1979-05-25 | Kane |
| Midnight Express | 1978-10-06 | Maximillian |
| I, Claudius | 1976-09-20 | Caligula |
| Nineteen Eighty-Four | 1984-11-09 | Winston Smith |
| Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 | 2010-11-17 | Ollivander |
| Love and Death on Long Island | 1998-07-03 | Giles De’Ath |