Born on March 20, 1908, in Bristol, England, he emerged as a prominent British actor with a commanding stage and film presence. Educated at Cambridge, he began his career in theater before transitioning to film. He gained acclaim with Hitchcock's "The Lady Vanishes" (1938) and showcased his versatility in "The Browning Version" (1951) and "The Dam Busters" (1955). A dedicated thespian, he also excelled in Shakespearean roles. His contributions to the arts earned him a knighthood in 1959. He passed away in 1985.