Ralph Richardson

Sir Ralph Richardson was one of the greatest actors of the 20th Century English-language theater, ascending to the height of his profession in the mid-1930s when he became a star in London's West End. He became the first actor of his generation to be knighted.

In 1936, he appeared in two films based on novels by H.G. Wells: Things to Come (1936) and The Man Who Could Work Miracles (1936).

Appeared in three Oscar Best Picture nominees: The Citadel (1938), The Heiress (1949) and Doctor Zhivago (1965).

He was created a Knight Bachelor in the 1947 King's New Year Honours List for his services to the stage.

Played two roles originally played by Basil Rathbone. He played Karenin in Anna Karenina (1948) (Rathbone was Karenin in the 1935 Anna Karenina (1935) film version). Richardson also played Dr. Sloper in The Heiress (1949) after Rathbone had played Sloper in the Broadway stage version.

Was nominated three times for Broadway's Tony Award as Best Actor (Dramatic): in 1957, for "The Waltz of the Toreadors"; in 1971, for "Home"; and in 1977, for "No Man's Land" -- but never won.

Was originally considered for one of the leading roles of Lady L (1965).

Was offered the part of Lord Bartlesham (played by Richard Vernon) in Ripping Yarns: Roger of the Raj (1979), but could not agree to terms and conditions.

Played both God - in Time Bandits (1981) - and the Devil - in Tales from the Crypt (1972).

He was awarded the Laurence Olivier Theatre Special Award in 1982 (1981 season) for his lifetime achievement in the theatre.

A memorial service was held for him at Westminster Abbey, London on 18 November 1983.

Is portrayed by Rhys McConnochie in Darlings of the Gods (1989)

Pictured with John Gielgud on one of a set of eight British commemorative postage stamps celebrating the 200th anniversary of The Old Vic Theatre, issued 30 August 2018. The stamp shows Richardson and Gielgud in a 1975 performance of "No Man's Land". Other performers appearing on stamps in this set are Laurence Olivier, Glenda Jackson, Albert Finney, Maggie Smith, Sharon Benson, Judi Dench, John Stride, and Richard Burton.