Rex Harrison, a name synonymous with classic cinema, left an indelible mark on Hollywood and Broadway. Best known for his role as Professor Henry Higgins in "My Fair Lady," Harrison's career spanned over six decades. Did you know he won both an Oscar and a Tony for the same role? Born in England in 1908, he started acting in school plays before making his professional debut in 1924. His charm and wit made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike. Beyond the screen, Harrison's personal life was just as intriguing, filled with multiple marriages and fascinating anecdotes. Curious about more? Let's dive into 30 captivating facts about this legendary actor.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Rex Harrison, a name synonymous with classic cinema, had a life filled with fascinating moments. Let's explore some intriguing facts about his early years and career beginnings.
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Born in 1908: Rex Harrison was born on March 5, 1908, in Huyton, Lancashire, England. His birth name was Reginald Carey Harrison.
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Stage Debut at 16: Harrison made his stage debut at the age of 16 in Liverpool. This early start laid the foundation for his illustrious career.
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World War II Service: During World War II, Harrison served in the Royal Air Force, reaching the rank of Flight Lieutenant. His service interrupted his acting career but also added depth to his life experiences.
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First Film Role in 1930: Harrison's first film role came in 1930 with "The Great Game," a British sports drama. This marked the beginning of his transition from stage to screen.
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Breakthrough Role in 1945: His breakthrough role came in 1945 with "Blithe Spirit," a film adaptation of Noël Coward's play. This role showcased his comedic timing and charm.
Rise to Stardom
Harrison's rise to stardom was marked by iconic roles and memorable performances. Here are some key moments that defined his career.
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"Anna and the King of Siam": In 1946, Harrison starred in "Anna and the King of Siam," which earned him critical acclaim and established him as a leading man in Hollywood.
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"My Fair Lady": Perhaps his most famous role, Harrison played Professor Henry Higgins in the 1964 film adaptation of "My Fair Lady." This role won him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
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Broadway Success: Before the film, Harrison had already won a Tony Award for the same role in the Broadway production of "My Fair Lady" in 1957.
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"Doctor Dolittle": In 1967, Harrison starred in "Doctor Dolittle," a musical film that, despite its initial mixed reviews, became a beloved classic over time.
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Versatile Actor: Harrison was known for his versatility, seamlessly transitioning between comedy, drama, and musical roles throughout his career.
Personal Life and Relationships
Harrison's personal life was as colorful as his career. He had multiple marriages and relationships that often made headlines.
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Six Marriages: Harrison was married six times. His wives included actresses Lilli Palmer and Kay Kendall, among others.
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Tragic Love Story: His marriage to Kay Kendall was particularly poignant. Kendall was diagnosed with leukemia, and Harrison stayed by her side until her death in 1959.
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Father of Two: Harrison had two sons, Noel and Carey Harrison, both of whom followed in their father's footsteps and pursued careers in the arts.
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Autobiography: In 1975, Harrison published his autobiography, "Rex: An Autobiography," offering a candid look at his life and career.
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Knighted in 1989: In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Harrison was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1989.
Later Years and Legacy
Even in his later years, Harrison continued to leave a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. His legacy endures through his timeless performances.
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"The Ghost and Mrs. Muir": In 1947, Harrison starred in "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir," a romantic fantasy film that remains a classic.
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Television Appearances: Harrison made several television appearances in the 1970s and 1980s, including guest roles on popular shows like "The Love Boat."
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Final Film Role: His final film role was in "A Time to Die" (1982), a thriller that showcased his enduring talent.
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Theatre Return: Harrison returned to the stage in the 1980s, starring in productions like "The Kingfisher" and "The Circle."
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Health Struggles: In his later years, Harrison faced health challenges, including glaucoma and a hip replacement surgery.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Beyond his professional achievements, Harrison's life was filled with interesting tidbits and lesser-known facts.
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Distinctive Voice: Harrison's distinctive voice was a hallmark of his performances. He often spoke his lines in musicals rather than singing them traditionally.
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Animal Lover: Harrison was an animal lover and had a particular fondness for cats. He often spoke about his pets in interviews.
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Art Collector: He was an avid art collector, with a particular interest in 18th-century English paintings.
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Golf Enthusiast: Harrison enjoyed playing golf and was a member of several prestigious golf clubs.
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Humorous Anecdotes: Known for his wit, Harrison often shared humorous anecdotes about his experiences in Hollywood and on stage.
Awards and Honors
Harrison's talent and contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career.
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Two Tony Awards: In addition to his Tony for "My Fair Lady," Harrison won another Tony Award for his role in "Anne of the Thousand Days" in 1949.
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Golden Globe: He received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor for his performance in "My Fair Lady."
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Hollywood Walk of Fame: Harrison has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, commemorating his contributions to the film industry.
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BAFTA Award: He won a BAFTA Award for Best British Actor for his role in "Major Barbara" in 1941.
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Lifetime Achievement: In 1989, Harrison received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild, recognizing his enduring impact on the world of entertainment.
The Legacy of Rex Harrison
Rex Harrison left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Known for his distinctive voice and impeccable acting skills, he brought characters to life in a way few could. From his iconic role in "My Fair Lady" to his unforgettable performance in "Doctor Dolittle," Harrison's versatility was unmatched. He wasn't just an actor; he was a storyteller who could captivate audiences with a mere glance or a well-timed line. His contributions to theater and film continue to inspire new generations of performers. Though he faced personal and professional challenges, his talent always shone through. Harrison's legacy is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and a love for the craft. As we remember his achievements, it's clear that Rex Harrison will always be a towering figure in the annals of acting history.
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