Saeed Jaffrey was an American actor known for his roles in Gandhi, The Man Who Would Be King, and My Beautiful Laundrette. He made significant contributions to both theater and film throughout his career, becoming a beloved figure in the industry.
Personal and Family Life
Saeed Jaffrey was born on January 8, 1929, in Malerkotla, Punjab, India. He had a post-graduate degree in history from the University of Allahabad and studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Jaffrey was married twice; he had three daughters with his first wife, actress Madhur Jaffrey, before divorcing her, and was married to Jennifer Jaffrey until his passing.
Career
Jaffrey began his acting career in drama, founding his own English theatre company in New Delhi. He gained recognition in the UK for his television and theater performances, especially in the BBC classic Gangsters. Jaffrey was known for acting in various notable films and television series, often portraying characters that showcased his charming demeanor and versatile acting skills.
Death and Legacy
Saeed Jaffrey passed away on November 15, 2015, in London, England, due to a brain hemorrhage. He left behind a rich legacy as a trailblazer for Asian actors in Western cinema, remembered for his iconic roles and contributions to drama. His work earned him the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1995, recognizing his impact in the arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Gandhi | 1982-12-01 | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel |
| The Guru | 1969-02-10 | Murad |
| The Man Who Would Be King | 1975-12-03 | Billy Fish |
| My Beautiful Laundrette | 1985-11-16 | Nasser Ali |
| Masoom | 1983-01-10 | Suri |
| Chicken Tikka Masala | 2005-04-22 | C. P. Chopra |
| The Jewel in the Crown | 1984-01-09 | Ahmed Ali Gaffur Kasim Bahadur, the Nawab of Mirat |
| Tandoori Nights | 1985-07-04 | N/A |
| Anita | 1998-01-01 | Main Character |
| Death on the Nile | 1978-09-29 | Servant |