On this Day 1966: Laurence Olivier at the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham

OTD, April 4th 1966…

Reg Harcourt interviewed the renowned actor Laurence Olivier about a National Theatre production of Juno and the Paycock at the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham. Sir Laurence was directing and appearing in the production.

Laurence Kerr Olivier was born to a clergyman father, Gerard Kerr Olivier, and Agnes Crookenden. His early education took place at All Saints School, where he first showed an aptitude for performance. Later, he attended the Central School of Speech and Drama, where his extraordinary talent became evident.

Olivier made his stage debut in the late 1920s, quickly gaining recognition for his commanding presence and Shakespearean prowess. By the 1930s, he was starring in major theatrical productions, solidifying himself as one of Britain’s finest actors. In Hollywood, he gained fame through films like Wuthering Heights (1939), where his performance as Heathcliff earned him an Academy Award nomination. He followed this with Rebecca (1940) and Pride and Prejudice (1940), further cementing his place as a screen icon.

Olivier was instrumental in bringing Shakespeare to mainstream audiences. His film adaptations of Henry V (1944), Hamlet (1948), and Richard III (1955) are considered masterpieces. Hamlet won him the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Actor, making him the first actor to direct himself to an Oscar win.

In later years, Olivier continued to act in films, television, and theatre. His later performances in Marathon Man (1976) and The Boys from Brazil (1978) showcased his versatility. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was knighted in 1947 and became a life peer in 1970, earning the title Baron Olivier of Brighton.

He passed away in 1989 at the age of 82.