William Hutt

William Hutt was a Canadian actor who is best known for Great Performances, Slings and Arrows, and The Statement. He gained recognition for his stage performances, particularly in Shakespearean roles.

Personal and Family Life

William Hutt was born on May 2, 1920, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He maintained a strong connection to the Stratford Festival, where he performed from its beginning in 1953 until his retirement in 2005. He was known for his dedication to Canadian theater and had a personal friendship with playwright Edward Albee.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Hutt portrayed many significant roles including Brutus, Macbeth, and King Lear. He made a notable impact by insisting on delivering Shakespeare’s lines with a distinct Canadian accent. He shared the stage with renowned actors such as Alec Guinness and Maggie Smith. His last performance was as Prospero in Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”, marking the end of a prolific career.

Death and Legacy

William Hutt passed away on June 27, 2007, in Stratford, Ontario, Canada, due to leukemia. He left behind a rich legacy in Canadian theatre and is remembered for his contributions to the arts, including an honorary Doctor of Letters from McMaster University in 1997. His influence continues to resonate with audiences and actors alike.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
The Statement2003-12-12Le Moyne
Tennessee Williams’ South1973-01-01
The Shape of Things to Come1979-05-04Lomax (voice)
Macbeth1964-03-16Ross
Long Day’s Journey Into Night1996-11-08James Tyrone
There Was a Crooked Man1960-08-31
Oedipus Rex1957-01-06Chorus Leader
The Wars1983-11-20Mr. Ross
Covergirl1984-01-13Alton Cockridge
The Elephant Man1982-01-04Bishop How
The Greatest Man in the World1958-11-09General Galway
Hallmark Hall of Fame1951-12-24Ross
Slings & Arrows2003-11-03Charles
The National Dream1974-03-03John A. Macdonald
Twice in a Lifetime1999-08-25Lionel
Emily of New Moon1998-01-04
The Trojan Horse2008-03-30Miles Fortnum
Hallmark Hall of Fame1951-12-24Le Bret