Who was Richard Burton? Richard Burton, born Richard Walter Jenkins Jr., was a legendary Welsh actor known for his deep voice and commanding presence. Why is he famous? Burton gained fame for his Shakespearean roles and Hollywood films, including "Cleopatra" and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" What made him unique? His turbulent relationship with Elizabeth Taylor, marked by two marriages and numerous collaborations, added to his mystique. Did he win awards? Despite seven Academy Award nominations, he never won an Oscar. What else should you know? Burton's life was a mix of brilliance and excess, making him a fascinating figure in film history.
Early Life and Background
Richard Burton, a name synonymous with classic cinema, had a life filled with fascinating details. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about this iconic actor.
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Born Richard Walter Jenkins Jr. on November 10, 1925, in Pontrhydyfen, Wales, Burton was the twelfth of thirteen children.
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His mother, Edith Maude, passed away when he was just two years old, leaving his sister Cecilia to raise him.
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Burton adopted his stage name from his schoolteacher and mentor, Philip Burton, who took him under his wing and helped him pursue acting.
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He was a scholarship student at Oxford University, where he studied under the tutelage of Nevill Coghill, a renowned Shakespearean scholar.
Rise to Stardom
Burton's journey to becoming a Hollywood legend was marked by significant milestones and memorable performances.
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His first major film role was in "The Last Days of Dolwyn" (1949), which caught the attention of critics and audiences alike.
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Burton's breakthrough role came in 1952 with "My Cousin Rachel," earning him his first Academy Award nomination.
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He starred in the 1953 film "The Robe," the first movie released in CinemaScope, which became a massive box office success.
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Burton's portrayal of King Henry VIII in "Anne of the Thousand Days" (1969) earned him another Oscar nomination.
Personal Life and Relationships
Burton's personal life was as dramatic and captivating as his on-screen roles.
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He married actress Sybil Williams in 1949, and they had two daughters, Kate and Jessica.
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Burton's tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth Taylor began on the set of "Cleopatra" (1963), leading to two marriages and two divorces.
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The couple was known for their lavish lifestyle, including extravagant jewelry gifts, such as the famous 69-carat Taylor-Burton Diamond.
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Burton struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which affected both his career and personal relationships.
Acclaimed Performances
Burton's talent shone through in a variety of roles, earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards.
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He received seven Academy Award nominations but never won, making him one of the most nominated actors without an Oscar.
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Burton's performance in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966) alongside Elizabeth Taylor is considered one of his finest.
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He played the role of Hamlet on Broadway in 1964, a production that became the longest-running Hamlet in Broadway history.
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Burton's portrayal of George in "Equus" (1977) earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor.
Later Years and Legacy
Even in his later years, Burton continued to leave an indelible mark on the world of acting.
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He starred in the 1984 film adaptation of George Orwell's "1984," which was one of his final film roles.
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Burton was awarded a Special Tony Award in 1976 for his contributions to the theater.
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Despite his struggles, Burton remained a prolific actor, appearing in over 60 films throughout his career.
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He was posthumously inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2013, honoring his lasting impact on the film industry.
Fun and Lesser-Known Facts
Beyond his professional achievements, there are some quirky and lesser-known facts about Burton that add to his intriguing persona.
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Burton was an avid reader, with a personal library of over 3,000 books.
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He had a passion for rugby and was a lifelong supporter of the Welsh national team.
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Burton was known for his deep, resonant voice, which became one of his most distinctive features.
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He once turned down the role of James Bond, believing he wasn't suited for the part.
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Burton was a close friend of fellow actor Peter O'Toole, and the two often engaged in legendary drinking sessions.
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He narrated the original 1978 animated film "The Lord of the Rings," lending his iconic voice to the project.
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Burton passed away on August 5, 1984, at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors and film enthusiasts alike.
Richard Burton's Lasting Impact
Richard Burton's legacy goes beyond his acting talent. Known for his powerful voice and intense performances, he left an indelible mark on theater and film. His tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth Taylor captivated the public, adding a layer of intrigue to his already fascinating life. Burton's dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades, though he never won an Oscar. His Welsh roots remained a significant part of his identity, influencing his work and personal life. Despite his struggles with alcohol and personal demons, Burton's contributions to the arts remain undeniable. His performances in classics like "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and "Cleopatra" continue to inspire actors and entertain audiences. Richard Burton's story is a testament to the complexities of fame and the enduring power of talent. His impact on the world of acting will be remembered for generations.
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