Cathyleen Jeter

Written by Cathyleen Jeter

Modified & Updated: 30 Sep 2024

45-facts-about-rupert-everett
Source: Hellomagazine.com

Who is Rupert Everett? Rupert James Hector Everett, born May 29, 1959, in Norfolk, England, is a British actor celebrated for his versatile performances on screen and stage. Known for his distinctive voice and chameleon-like transformations, Everett's career spans several decades, showcasing his talents in acting, writing, and directing. From his early days as a model to his breakthrough role in "Another Country," Everett has consistently captivated audiences. Fluent in multiple languages and a skilled musician, he has also been a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate. His openness about his personal life, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rupert Everett's early life in the English countryside shaped his journey, from prestigious schooling to his bold move to London for acting training.
  • Beyond his diverse career, Rupert Everett's legacy as a LGBTQ+ advocate and fashion icon has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Table of Contents

Early Life and Education

Rupert Everett's journey began in the English countryside, where his early experiences shaped his future career.

  1. Rupert James Hector Everett was born on May 29, 1959, in Norfolk, England.
  2. He attended Farleigh School in Andover, Hampshire, for his early education.
  3. Later, he moved to Ampleforth College in Yorkshire, a prestigious Roman Catholic public school.
  4. At 16, he left school to pursue acting, moving to London to train at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

Career Breakthrough

Everett's big break came early, setting the stage for a diverse and successful career.

  1. His breakthrough role was in Julian Mitchell's play and film "Another Country" in 1981.
  2. This role earned him his first BAFTA Award nomination, marking the start of his rise to fame.

Multilingual and Musical Talents

Everett's talents extend beyond acting, showcasing his versatility.

  1. He is fluent in English, French, and Italian.
  2. Everett plays the piano and violin, adding musical depth to his skill set.
  3. He sang backup on Madonna's remake of "American Pie" and dueted with Robbie Williams on "They Can't Take That Away from Me."

Royal Lineage and Personal Life

Everett's background and personal experiences have influenced his career and public persona.

  1. He is a descendant of Charles II Stuart, King of England and Scotland.
  2. Everett came out as gay in the early 1990s, becoming an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
  3. He once described being gay as "like a pair of trousers in the washing machine with a pair of keys in them."

Fashion Icon and Theater Career

Everett's sense of style and stage presence have earned him accolades in both fashion and theater.

  1. He won the 1999 VH1 Vogue Fashion Award for most fashionable male celebrity.
  2. Everett has won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Actor in a Play.
  3. He was nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Actor.
  4. His performance in "Blithe Spirit" on Broadway, opposite Angela Lansbury, was highly acclaimed.

Notable Film Roles

Everett's filmography is diverse, with roles that have left a lasting impact.

  1. He starred in "The Madness of King George," playing George, Prince of Wales.
  2. One of his most famous roles is George Downes in "My Best Friend's Wedding" (1997).
  3. He voiced Prince Charming in "Shrek 2" (2004) and "Shrek the Third" (2007).

LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Everett's openness about his sexuality has made him a prominent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

  1. He has been recognized for his contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.
  2. Everett was listed in the Independent on Sunday's Pink List, highlighting influential gay men and women.

Writing and Directing

Beyond acting, Everett has ventured into writing and directing, showcasing his creative talents.

  1. He wrote and directed the film "The Happy Prince," released in 2018.
  2. His fascination with Oscar Wilde inspired this project, a labor of love for Everett.

Personal Struggles and Fashion Sense

Everett's career has been shaped by personal challenges and a keen sense of style.

  1. He was expelled from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama for insubordination.
  2. Everett turned down the Daniel Day-Lewis role in "A Room with a View," a decision he later regretted.
  3. His fashion sense earned him recognition, reflecting his character roles in film and theater.

Family Ties and Philanthropy

Everett's family background and philanthropic efforts have influenced his career and public image.

  1. He has an older brother, Simon Anthony Cunningham Everett.
  2. Everett has been involved in various philanthropic activities, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community.

Residence and Lifestyle

Everett's choice of residence reflects his desire for a quieter life.

  1. In 2021, he moved to Borris, Co. Carlow, Ireland, seeking peace and solitude.

Career Milestones and Collaborations

Everett's career milestones and notable collaborations have defined his journey in the entertainment industry.

  1. His BAFTA nominations for "Another Country" and "My Best Friend's Wedding" are career highlights.
  2. He collaborated with Madonna, re-recording Don McLean's "American Pie."
  3. Everett starred alongside Bob Dylan in "Hearts of Fire," though the film was not successful.

Television Appearances

Everett has made memorable appearances on television, showcasing his versatility.

  1. He played Dr. Hendricks in the BBC 2 comedy "Quacks."
  2. Everett appeared in the BBC One drama "The Musketeers," playing Philippe Achille, Marquis de Feron.

Stage Performances and Writing Contributions

Everett's stage performances and writing contributions have added depth to his career.

  1. He performed in "Blithe Spirit" on Broadway and "An Ideal Husband."
  2. Everett has written for publications like Vanity Fair and The Guardian.

Public Image and Awards

Everett's public image and numerous awards reflect his talent and dedication.

  1. His public image has evolved from a romantic lead to a respected character actor.
  2. Everett has received numerous awards, including BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations.

Personal Relationships and Health Concerns

Everett's personal relationships and health concerns have shaped his life and career.

  1. He has a close friendship with Simon Callow, which began in 1981.
  2. Everett relocated to Los Angeles in 1999 to care for his dog, Moise, who had arthritis.

Family Background and Education

Everett's rich family background and education played crucial roles in his career.

  1. His ancestors include Charles II Stuart and Donald Maclean, a Cambridge Five spy.
  2. Everett was educated at Farleigh School and Ampleforth College before training at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

Early Career Struggles and Fashion Icon Status

Everett's early career struggles and fashion icon status have defined his journey.

  1. He faced challenges early in his career, including being expelled from drama school.
  2. Everett's fashion sense has been widely praised, earning him recognition in various awards.

Legacy and Impact

Everett's legacy extends beyond acting, making a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

  1. He has been a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation, advocating for acceptance and equality.

Rupert Everett: A Versatile Talent

Rupert Everett's career is a testament to his versatility and talent. From his early days in theater with "Another Country" to his memorable film roles in "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Shrek 2," Everett has consistently delivered captivating performances. His fluency in multiple languages, musical talents, and royal lineage add layers to his intriguing persona. Beyond acting, he's made significant contributions as a writer, director, and LGBTQ+ advocate. His openness about his personal struggles and triumphs has endeared him to many. Whether on stage, screen, or behind the scenes, Everett's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. As he continues to evolve, Rupert Everett remains a compelling figure, blending elegance, wit, and depth in every role he takes on. His journey is far from over, promising more remarkable performances and contributions to the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What movies is Rupert Everett famous for?
Rupert Everett has dazzled audiences in several memorable roles. He's perhaps best known for his performances in "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "The Importance of Being Earnest." His portrayal of George Downes, Julia Roberts' witty friend in "My Best Friend's Wedding," left fans in stitches, while his take on Algernon Moncrieff in "The Importance of Being Earnest" showcased his knack for classic comedy.
How did Rupert Everett start his acting career?
Everett's journey into the limelight began on the stage. After studying at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, he made his professional debut in the West End play "Another Country," playing an openly gay student at an English public school. This role catapulted him into the film industry, where he continued to shine.
Has Rupert Everett written any books?
Yes, indeed! Everett is not only a talented actor but also a gifted writer. He has penned several books, including the highly acclaimed memoirs "Red Carpets and Other Banana Skins" and "Vanished Years." These works offer a candid look into his life, career, and the ups and downs of Hollywood.
What's Rupert Everett's stance on LGBTQ+ rights?
Everett is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Openly gay himself, he's used his platform to speak out on issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. His candid discussions about his own experiences have contributed to broader conversations about acceptance and equality.
Did Rupert Everett direct any films?
Yes, he's taken a turn behind the camera as well. Everett made his directorial debut with "The Happy Prince," a film about the later years of Oscar Wilde's life, which he also wrote and starred in. This project was a labor of love for Everett, showcasing his deep admiration for Wilde and his storytelling prowess.
What challenges has Rupert Everett faced in his career?
Despite his success, Everett's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. He's spoken openly about the challenges of being an openly gay actor in Hollywood, including typecasting and discrimination. Yet, he's navigated these obstacles with resilience, continuing to deliver compelling performances.
Can you tell me about Rupert Everett's early life?
Born on May 29, 1959, in Norfolk, England, Everett grew up in a military family, which instilled in him a sense of discipline and adventure. His passion for acting emerged early on, leading him to leave school and pursue his dreams in the arts. This bold move set the stage for a remarkable career in both stage and screen.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.