30 Facts About Robert Lindsay

Early Life and Education

Robert Lindsay's journey to stardom began in a small town in Derbyshire. His early years and education laid the foundation for his illustrious career.

1. Early Life: Born on December 13, 1949, in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, Robert Lindsay grew up in a working-class family. His father, Norman Stevenson, worked at the local Stanton Ironworks and was a World War II veteran.

2. Family Background: Lindsay was one of three children. His mother, Joyce (née Dunmore), played a significant role in his upbringing.

3. Schooling: He attended Gladstone Boys' School in Ilkeston, where his interest in drama began to take shape.

4. Higher Education: Encouraged by friends at Nottingham Playhouse, Lindsay applied to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and was accepted with a government grant in 1968.

5. Graduation: He graduated from RADA in 1970 with an Acting (RADA Diploma), ready to embark on his acting career.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

Lindsay's early career saw him taking on various roles in British films and television, eventually leading to his breakthrough.

6. Early Roles: His early career included roles in British films such as That'll Be The Day (1973), Three for All (1975), and Adventures of a Taxi Driver (1976).

7. First Major Role: Lindsay gained prominence as the cockney Teddy Boy Jakey Smith in the ITV comedy series Get Some In! (1975–1977).

8. Television Stardom: In 1977, he landed the starring role as delusional revolutionary Wolfie Smith in the BBC sitcom Citizen Smith (1977–1980), watched by 24 million people.

Theatre and Awards

Lindsay's talent shone brightly on stage, earning him numerous awards and recognition.

9. Theatre Work: He has appeared with the Royal Shakespeare Company and in musical theatre, showcasing his versatility.

10. Olivier Award: Lindsay won an Olivier Award for his role as Bill Snibson in the 1984 London revival of Me and My Girl.

11. Tony Award: The same role in Me and My Girl earned him a Tony Award when the production transferred to Broadway.

12. BAFTA Award: He won the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor for his role in Alan Bleasdale's dark comedy serial G.B.H. (1991).

Notable Roles in Film and Television

Lindsay's career includes a wide range of notable roles in both film and television.

13. King Lear: He played Edmund in the Granada Television production of King Lear (1983).

14. Much Ado About Nothing: Lindsay portrayed Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing (1984).

15. A Midsummer Night's Dream: He took on the role of Lysander in A Midsummer Night's Dream (1981).

16. Film Appearances: Lindsay has appeared in films like Bert Rigby, You're a Fool (1989), Strike It Rich (1990), and Fierce Creatures (1997).

17. Television Mini-Series: He starred in several television mini-series such as Hornblower, Jericho, and Gideon's Daughter (2006).

Recent Work and Personal Life

Even in recent years, Lindsay continues to captivate audiences with his performances. His personal life also adds depth to his story.

18. Recent TV Series: In recent years, Lindsay has appeared in TV series like McDonald & Dodds (2020), Sherwood (2022), and Dodger (2022).

19. Personal Life: Lindsay was married to Cheryl Hall from 1974 to 1980. He then married Rosemarie Ford in 2006, with whom he has two children.

20. Political Beliefs: Known for his left-wing political beliefs, Lindsay often describes himself as a staunch socialist and has been vocal about social justice issues.

Challenges and Legacy

Lindsay's career has not been without its challenges, but his legacy in the entertainment industry remains strong.

21. Early Career Challenges: Despite his success, Lindsay faced challenges early in his career, including losing out on a part in Shakespeare in Love (1998) due to a confrontation with producer Harvey Weinstein.

22. Television Legacy: His most notable roles on television include playing Ben Harper in My Family (2000–11) and various other characters in series like Absolutely Fabulous and Extras (2006).

23. Theatre Contributions: Lindsay has contributed significantly to British theatre, including his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and performances in musicals like Me and My Girl and Anything Goes (2021).

24. Awards and Nominations: Throughout his career, Lindsay has received multiple award nominations and wins, including three wins and five nominations for various awards.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

Lindsay's life is filled with interesting facts and trivia that add to his fascinating persona.

25. IMDb Profile: On IMDb, Robert Lindsay is listed as an actor, music department contributor, and soundtrack performer, showcasing his diverse talents.

26. Recent Projects: In addition to acting, Lindsay has been involved in various other projects, including narrating documentaries and contributing to podcasts like Generation Z (post-production).

27. Height and Appearance: Lindsay stands at 5’10” (1.78 m) and is known for his distinctive, dapper appearance.

28. Publicity Listings: His official site provides detailed information about his career, including his height, spouse, and children.

29. Quotes and Insights: Lindsay has shared insightful quotes about his career and personal experiences, such as his admiration for the performances in The Deer Hunter (1978).

30. Continued Work: Despite his age, Lindsay remains active in the entertainment industry and is currently in discussions about portraying Prospero in The Tempest.

Robert Lindsay's Lasting Impact

Robert Lindsay's career is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From his early days in British films to his iconic role in Citizen Smith, he's left an indelible mark on television. His theater work, especially with the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcases his range and talent. Winning awards like the Olivier and Tony highlights his excellence in musical theater. His political activism and personal beliefs add depth to his public persona, making him more than just an actor. Despite challenges, including a notable clash with Harvey Weinstein, Lindsay's resilience shines through. His recent roles in series like Sherwood and Dodger prove he's still a force in the industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Robert Lindsay continues to captivate audiences, leaving a lasting legacy in film, television, and theater.