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James DonaldScottish actor. Tall and thin, he most often played military officers, doctors or scientists.
Date of Birth: 18.05.1917
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Donald Pleasence: Scottish Actor and Versatile Performer
- Film Roles
- Notable Television Appearances
- Legacy
Donald Pleasence: Scottish Actor and Versatile Performer
Early Life and Stage CareerDonald Pleasence was born in Aberdeen, Scotland. His towering height and lanky physique became his trademark, lending him to roles as military officers, doctors, and scientists. Pleasence made his stage debut as a student at Rossall School in the late 1930s.
During World War II, he played minor roles in propaganda films such as In Which We Serve, Went the Day Well?, and The Way Ahead. However, it wasn't until 1952 that he gained recognition for his portrayal of Mr. Winkle in the film adaptation of The Pickwick Papers.
Film Roles
Pleasence's breakthrough came in 1958 when he played Theo van Gogh in Lust for Life. His unforgettable performance as Major Clipton in The Bridge on the River Kwai(1957) earned him critical acclaim, particularly for his impassioned plea: "Madness. Madness!" He also appeared as Air Commodore Ramsey in The Great Escape(1963) and played supporting roles in numerous other British and American films, including The Vikings(1958), King Rat(1965), Cast a Giant Shadow(1966), and Quatermass and the Pit(1967).
Notable Television Appearances
Pleasence starred as Dr. Andrew Manson in the 1960 television adaptation of A.J. Cronin's The Citadel. He made regular appearances in British and American television dramas, including the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" production of Victoria Regina(1961), in which he portrayed Prince Albert.
Legacy
Donald Pleasence became an iconic figure in the acting world, known for his versatility and ability to bring complex characters to life. His towering height, piercing eyes, and distinctive voice made him a memorable presence on both stage and screen. Despite playing many supporting roles, Pleasence left an unforgettable mark on the film and television landscape.
