Born on December 19, 1902, in Cheltenham, England, he emerged as an acclaimed stage actor before transitioning to film. Known for his powerful voice and commanding presence, he became one of Britain's most esteemed actors. His career spanned over six decades, with notable films including "The Fallen Idol," "Doctor Zhivago," and "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan." He was knighted in 1947 for his contributions to theater. He passed away on October 10, 1983, leaving a lasting legacy in both theater and cinema.