Lesley Manville is a name that resonates with fans of both stage and screen. But who is she really? Born in Brighton, England, Manville has carved out a remarkable career spanning decades. From her early days in theater to her standout roles in films like "Phantom Thread" and TV series such as "Mum," she has proven her versatility time and again. Did you know she has been nominated for an Academy Award and multiple BAFTAs? Beyond her professional achievements, Manville's personal life, including her marriage to actor Gary Oldman, adds another layer of intrigue. Curious about more? Here are 36 facts that will give you a deeper look into the life and career of this talented actress.
Early Life and Background
Lesley Manville is a celebrated British actress known for her versatile roles in film, television, and theater. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about her life and career.
- 01Born on March 12, 1956, in Brighton, England, Lesley Manville grew up in a working-class family.
- 02Her father was a taxi driver, and her mother worked as a former ballet dancer.
- 03Lesley was the youngest of three sisters.
- 04She began taking dance lessons at the age of eight.
- 05By the age of 15, she had already secured a place at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.
Career Beginnings
Lesley's journey into acting started early, and her dedication quickly paid off.
- 06She made her television debut in 1972 in the series "Village Hall."
- 07Her first significant role came in 1974 with the TV series "Emmerdale Farm."
- 08Lesley joined the Royal Court Theatre in 1979, marking her entry into professional theater.
- 09She worked extensively with director Mike Leigh, appearing in several of his films.
- 10Her breakthrough role came in the 1988 film "High Hopes."
Major Film Roles
Lesley Manville's film career is marked by a series of critically acclaimed performances.
- 11She starred in "Secrets & Lies" (1996), which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes.
- 12In "All or Nothing" (2002), she played a struggling wife and mother, earning rave reviews.
- 13Her role in "Another Year" (2010) garnered her a BAFTA nomination.
- 14Lesley played Cyril in "Phantom Thread" (2017), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
- 15She appeared in the 2020 film "Let Him Go" alongside Kevin Costner and Diane Lane.
Television Success
Lesley's talent extends beyond the big screen, with numerous notable TV roles.
- 16She starred in the BBC series "Cranford" (2007-2009).
- 17Lesley played Lydia Quigley in the series "Harlots" (2017-2019).
- 18She appeared in the critically acclaimed series "Mum" (2016-2019), winning a BAFTA for her role.
- 19In 2021, she joined the cast of "The Crown" as Princess Margaret.
- 20Lesley also appeared in the miniseries "River" (2015) alongside Stellan Skarsgård.
Theater Achievements
Lesley's stage performances have been equally impressive, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.
- 21She won an Olivier Award for her role in "Ghosts" (2014).
- 22Lesley starred in the National Theatre's production of "His Dark Materials" (2003-2004).
- 23She played Mary Tyrone in "Long Day's Journey into Night" (2018), earning critical acclaim.
- 24Lesley appeared in the West End production of "The Visit" (2020).
- 25She has worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, performing in plays like "Les Liaisons Dangereuses."
Personal Life
Beyond her professional achievements, Lesley's personal life is equally intriguing.
- 26She was married to actor Gary Oldman from 1987 to 1990.
- 27Lesley has one son, Alfie Oldman, born in 1988.
- 28She married actor Joe Dixon in 2000, but they later divorced.
- 29Lesley is known for her close friendship with actress Imelda Staunton.
- 30She is an advocate for mental health awareness and supports various charities.
Awards and Recognition
Lesley's talent has not gone unnoticed, earning her numerous awards and nominations.
- 31She received an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 2015 for her services to drama.
- 32Lesley has been nominated for six BAFTA Awards.
- 33She won the London Film Critics' Circle Award for British Actress of the Year in 2010.
- 34Lesley received a Critics' Choice Movie Award nomination for her role in "Phantom Thread."
- 35She was honored with the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival for "Another Year."
Fun Facts
Let's end with some fun and lesser-known facts about Lesley Manville.
- 36Lesley is an avid gardener and enjoys spending her free time tending to her plants.
Lesley Manville: A Remarkable Talent
Lesley Manville's career is nothing short of impressive. From her early days in theater to her standout roles in film and television, she's shown incredible versatility. Her performances in movies like "Phantom Thread" and TV series like "Mum" have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Beyond her acting chops, Manville's dedication to her craft and her ability to bring depth to every character make her a standout in the entertainment industry.
Her journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and talent. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering her work, there's no denying the impact she's had on the arts. Lesley Manville continues to inspire and entertain, proving that true talent knows no bounds. Keep an eye out for her future projects; they're sure to be as captivating as her past performances.
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