Cedric Webster Hardwicke Anglo-American actor Date of Birth: 19.02.1893 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Education
2. Stage Career
3. Knighthood and Film Debut
4. Hollywood Career
5. Later Career and Death
6. Legacy and Honors

Early Life and Education

Sir Cedric Webster Hardwicke was born in Lye, Worcestershire, England on February 19, 1893, the son of Dr. Edwin Webster Hardwicke and Jessie Masterson. He attended Bridgnorth Grammar School in Shropshire before enrolling at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).

Stage Career

Hardwicke made his stage debut in 1912 at the Lyceum Theatre in London in "The Monk and the Woman." He went on to perform at Her Majesty's Theatre, the Garrick Theatre, and other venues in the city. He also toured extensively, appearing in provincial England, South Africa, and Rhodesia.

In 1914, Hardwicke joined the Old Vic theater company, where he played Macbeth, Hamlet, and other Shakespearean roles. He served in the British Army during World War I from 1914 to 1921. Upon his return, he became a respected stage actor, earning particular praise from George Bernard Shaw, who called him "the fifth Marx Brother."

Knighthood and Film Debut

In 1934, Hardwicke was knighted, becoming the youngest actor to receive the honor at the age of 41. His first film role was in "Dreyfus" (1931). He went on to star in numerous British films during the 1930s, including "Bella Donna," "Things to Come," "Tudor Rose," and "King Solomon's Mines."

Hollywood Career

In the 1940s, Hardwicke moved to Hollywood, where he played in a variety of films, including "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," "The Invisible Man Returns," and "The Keys of the Kingdom." He also appeared in the Broadway productions of "Twelfth Night" and "King Lear."

Later Career and Death

In the 1950s, Hardwicke focused on television and Broadway while continuing to appear in films. His final film role was in the British drama "The Pumpkin Eater" (1964). He died of pneumonia on August 6, 1964, in New York City at the age of 71.

Legacy and Honors

Hardwicke starred in over 108 films and television shows throughout his career. He directed and produced one film, "Forever and a Day" (1943). He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A memorial to him was erected in his hometown in 2005, featuring scenes from some of his most famous films.

Hardwicke was married twice. His first wife was actress Helena Pickard, with whom he had one son, actor Edward Hardwicke. He later married actress Mary Scott.