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Martin BensonEnglish character actor of theatre, film and television
Date of Birth: 10.08.1918
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Biography of Martin Benjamin Benson
Martin Benjamin Benson was an English character actor in theater, film, and television. He was involved in both British and Hollywood projects and is best known for his role as the Prime Minister (Kralaholme) in the original London production of "The King and I," which he later reprised in the Academy Award-winning film adaptation of the play.
Early Life
Martin Benjamin Benson was born on August 10, 1918, in London, England, UK.
Career
Benson's career spanned over six decades, primarily focusing on supporting roles and portraying villains. His filmography includes movies such as "The Blind Goddess," "Wheel of Fate," "Interpol," "The Strange World of Planet X," "Once More, with Feeling!," and "Exodus." Without receiving credit, Martin played a role in the historical film "Ivanhoe," produced by MGM and nominated for three Oscars. In 1963, he was included in the ensemble cast of another historical project, playing Ramos in "Cleopatra" alongside Elizabeth Taylor. Benson also portrayed both serious and comedic roles, such as Ali in the adventure film "Killers of Kilimanjaro" and Maurice in "A Shot in the Dark."
In 1964, Benson appeared as Mr. Solo, a gangster who refused to participate in a villainous plan and was subsequently killed by the silent Korean henchman Oddjob, one of James Bond's most memorable adversaries, in the film "Goldfinger." In addition to the big screen, Martin played numerous roles on television. In 1957, he appeared as a guest actor on "The Jack Benny Show." That same year, Benson agreed to transform into Prince de Medici in the children's adventure series "Sword of Freedom." In 1981, the Englishman underwent a dramatic transformation in "The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy," donning the attire of a Vogon fleet leader intent on destroying the Earth.
In 2005, Benson made his final appearance as Rudy Goldspink in the series "Casualty."
Personal Life
Martin Benson was first married to Joan Oliver, with whom he had three daughters and a son. He later married Joy Swinson, who gave him two daughters and a son. Additionally, the affectionate actor had a son from another relationship.
Benson passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 28, 2010, at the age of 91, in his Buckinghamshire home.
