URPoint Details
Hugh Emrys Griffith was born on 30 May 1912, educated at a country school but failed the English examination to enter University. It was decided he should make a career in banking, he became a bank clerk, he transferred to London to be closer to acting opportunities. Just as he was making progress and gained admission to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he had to suspend his plans in order to serve in the British Army, serving for six years with the Royal Welch Fusiliers in India and the Burma Campaign during World War II. He resumed his acting career in 1946.
His stage career between 1946 and 1976 and won acclaim for many stage roles, in particular for his portrayals of Falstaff, Lear and Prospero. Griffith acted on both sides of the Atlantic, taking leading roles in London, New York and Stratford.
In 1952 he starred in the Broadway adaption of Legend of Lovers, alongside fellow Welsh actor Richard Burton.
In 1958 he was back in New York, this time taking a lead role in the opening production of Look Homeward, Angel alongside Anthony Perkins. Both he and Perkins were nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actor in a play for their roles.
Griffith began his film career in
- Type:
- Famous Locals