Richard Harris

Early Life

Richard St John Harris was born on October 1, 1930, in Limerick, Ireland. He was the fifth of nine children in a Roman Catholic family. Harris developed a passion for rugby during his youth and played for Garryowen, one of Ireland's most famous rugby clubs. However, his promising sports career was cut short by a bout of tuberculosis.

Career Beginnings

After recovering from tuberculosis, Harris moved to London to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). He began his acting career in the 1950s with various stage productions and gradually transitioned to film. His early film work included roles in 'Alive and Kicking' (1959) and 'The Long and the Short and the Tall' (1961).

Breakthrough and Major Roles

Harris' breakthrough role came in 1963 with 'This Sporting Life,' where he played a rugby league player. His powerful performance earned him the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination. In 1967, Harris starred as King Arthur in the film adaptation of the musical 'Camelot,' a role that became one of his most iconic.

Continued Success

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Harris continued to build a formidable career with roles in films such as 'A Man Called Horse' (1970),'Cromwell' (1970),and 'The Wild Geese' (1978). He was known for his intense and often brooding characters, which showcased his versatility as an actor.

Later Career and Harry Potter

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Harris experienced a resurgence in popularity. He played Emperor Marcus Aurelius in 'Gladiator' (2000),receiving widespread acclaim. However, it was his role as Professor Albus Dumbledore in the first two 'Harry Potter' films that introduced him to a new generation of fans. Harris brought a sense of wisdom and gravitas to the beloved character, making an indelible mark on the franchise.

Personal Life

Harris was married twice, first to Elizabeth Rees-Williams with whom he had three sons, including actor Jared Harris, and then to Ann Turkel. Known for his hard-living lifestyle, Harris battled alcoholism for many years, but he also had a reputation for being a consummate professional on set.

Death and Legacy

Richard Harris passed away on October 25, 2002, in London, England, due to Hodgkin's disease. His death was a significant loss to the world of cinema and theater. Harris left behind a legacy of memorable performances and remains celebrated as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

Family Connections

Harris' family includes notable members in the entertainment industry. His son, Jared Harris, is a respected actor known for roles in 'Mad Men' and 'Chernobyl.'