40 Facts About Brian Blessed

Early Life and Background

Brian Blessed is a larger-than-life figure known for his booming voice and dynamic personality. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years and background.

1. Born on October 9, 1936, in Mexborough, Yorkshire, England, Brian Blessed grew up in a working-class family.
2. His father, William Blessed, was a coal miner, while his mother, Hilda Wall, was a housewife.
3. Blessed attended Bolton on Dearne Secondary Modern School, where he developed a passion for acting.
4. He left school at the age of 15 to work as an undertaker's assistant before pursuing his acting career.
5. Blessed trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, one of the most prestigious drama schools in the UK.

Acting Career

Brian Blessed's acting career spans over six decades, with roles in film, television, and theater. Here are some highlights from his impressive career.

6. Blessed made his television debut in 1962 on the British soap opera "Z-Cars."
7. He is best known for his role as Prince Vultan in the 1980 cult classic film "Flash Gordon."
8. Blessed played the role of King Richard IV in the British sitcom "The Black Adder" in 1983.
9. He portrayed Boss Nass, the leader of the Gungans, in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
10. Blessed has appeared in numerous Shakespearean productions, including "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "King Lear."

Voice Work

Blessed's powerful voice has made him a sought-after voice actor for various projects. Let's explore some of his notable voice work.

11. He voiced Clayton in Disney's animated film "Tarzan" (1999).
12. Blessed provided the voice for the character Grampy Rabbit in the popular children's show "Peppa Pig."
13. He narrated the documentary series "The Great British Year" for the BBC.
14. Blessed lent his voice to the character of El Supremo in the video game "Rome: Total War."
15. He voiced the character of Odin in the animated series "Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes."

Adventurous Spirit

Beyond acting, Brian Blessed is known for his adventurous spirit and love for exploration. Here are some thrilling facts about his adventures.

16. Blessed has attempted to climb Mount Everest three times, reaching heights of up to 28,200 feet.
17. He became the oldest man to reach the North Magnetic Pole on foot in 1998.
18. Blessed has completed expeditions to the jungles of Venezuela and the deserts of Mongolia.
19. He has a passion for skydiving and has completed over 1,000 jumps.
20. Blessed is a qualified cosmonaut, having trained with the Russian space program.

Personal Life

Brian Blessed's personal life is as colorful as his professional career. Let's take a look at some interesting aspects of his personal life.

21. Blessed married actress Hildegarde Neil in 1978, and they have one daughter, Rosalind.
22. He is an avid animal lover and has a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, and birds.
23. Blessed is a vegetarian and has been an advocate for animal rights.
24. He has a black belt in judo and practices martial arts regularly.
25. Blessed is known for his charitable work and has supported numerous causes, including children's hospitals and animal shelters.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Brian Blessed has received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to the arts and his adventurous spirit.

26. Blessed was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2016 for his services to the arts and charity.
27. He received the Spirit of Adventure Award from the Explorers Club in 2004.
28. Blessed was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2010 British Independent Film Awards.
29. He was named an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in 2011.
30. Blessed received the Outstanding Contribution to Drama Award at the 2014 National Television Awards.

Fun Facts

Brian Blessed's larger-than-life personality has led to some truly fun and quirky facts. Let's uncover some of these entertaining tidbits.

31. Blessed holds the Guinness World Record for the loudest shout, recorded at 119.7 decibels.
32. He once delivered a baby in a park while waiting for an ambulance to arrive.
33. Blessed has a passion for painting and has exhibited his artwork in galleries.
34. He is known for his love of storytelling and often regales audiences with tales from his adventures.
35. Blessed has a star named after him in the International Star Registry.

Legacy and Influence

Brian Blessed's impact on the world of entertainment and beyond is undeniable. Here are some ways he has left his mark.

36. Blessed's distinctive voice has inspired many voice actors and performers.
37. His adventurous spirit has encouraged others to pursue their own dreams of exploration.
38. Blessed's charitable work has made a significant difference in the lives of many people and animals.
39. He has been a mentor to many young actors, offering guidance and support throughout their careers.
40. Blessed's larger-than-life persona continues to captivate audiences, ensuring his legacy will endure for generations to come.

The Final Word on Brian Blessed

Brian Blessed's life is a tapestry of adventure, talent, and unforgettable moments. From his booming voice to his daring expeditions, he’s a man who’s lived many lifetimes in one. Whether scaling Everest or performing Shakespeare, Blessed brings passion and energy to everything he does. His charitable efforts and inspirational speeches have touched countless lives, proving he’s more than just a larger-than-life personality. Blessed's dedication to his craft and his fearless spirit make him a true icon. If you ever need a dose of inspiration or a reminder to live life to the fullest, look no further than Brian Blessed. His story is a testament to the power of determination, courage, and a good sense of humor. So, next time you hear that thunderous voice, remember the incredible man behind it.