Donald Sumpter

Born:February 13, 1943

Place of Birth:Brixworth, Northamptonshire, England, UK

Known For:Acting

Biography

Donald Sumpter, born on February 13, 1943, is a distinguished English actor with a career spanning over five decades. His versatility and talent have allowed him to seamlessly transition between film and television, leaving a lasting impact in both mediums. Sumpter's early foray into television included memorable appearances in iconic series such as Doctor Who, where he shared the screen with legendary actors like Patrick Troughton and Jon Pertwee.

Throughout his career, Sumpter has showcased his remarkable range by portraying a wide array of characters in various television films and serials. His performances in adaptations of Dickens' timeless novels, such as "Nicholas Nickleby," "Great Expectations," and "Bleak House," have been lauded for their depth and authenticity. Additionally, his portrayal of the suspected serial killer Alexander Bonaparte Cust in "Agatha Christie's Poirot" demonstrated his ability to bring complex characters to life with nuance and intrigue.

In addition to his television work, Sumpter has made significant contributions to the world of cinema with roles in acclaimed films like "The Constant Gardener," "K-19: The Widowmaker," and "Enigma." His captivating presence on the big screen has captivated audiences and critics alike, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor in both television and film.

Sumpter's talent extends beyond traditional dramas, as he has also delved into the realm of fantasy and science fiction with roles in popular series like "Game of Thrones" and "Being Human." His ability to inhabit diverse worlds and characters with authenticity and depth has made him a sought-after actor in the industry, earning him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.

In his portrayal of Maester Luwin in the hit HBO series "Game of Thrones," Sumpter brought wisdom and gravitas to the role, earning praise for his nuanced performance. His ability to imbue his characters with humanity and complexity has made him a standout presence in every project he undertakes, showcasing his dedication to his craft and his passion for storytelling.

Sumpter's contributions to both television and film have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, with his talent and versatility earning him a well-deserved reputation as a consummate actor. Whether he is portraying a villainous antagonist or a wise mentor, Sumpter's performances never fail to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression. With a career as rich and varied as his, Donald Sumpter continues to enchant and inspire audiences with his unparalleled talent and dedication to his craft.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Detective Inspector Gustaf Morell

2011

Disgraced journalist Mikael Blomkvist investigates the disappearance of a weary patriarch's niece from 40 years ago. He is aided by the pierced, tattooed, punk computer hacker named Lisbeth Salander. As they work together in the investigation, Blomkvist and Salander uncover immense corruption beyond anything they have ever imagined.

Limonov: The Ballad

Eddie's Father

2024

A revolutionary militant, a thug, an underground writer, a butler to a millionaire in Manhattan. But also a switchblade-waving poet, a lover of beautiful women, a warmonger, a political agitator, and a novelist who wrote of his greatness. Eduard Limonov’s life story is a journey through Russia, America, and Europe during the second half of the 20th century.

Eastern Promises

Yuri

2007

A Russian teenager living in London dies during childbirth but leaves clues in her diary that could tie her child to a rape involving a violent Russian mob family.

In the Heart of the Sea

Paul Macy

2015

In the winter of 1820, the New England whaling ship Essex is assaulted by something no one could believe—a whale of mammoth size and will, and an almost human sense of vengeance.

K-19: The Widowmaker

Dr. Savran

2002

When Russia's first nuclear submarine malfunctions on its maiden voyage, the crew must race to save the ship and prevent a nuclear disaster.

The Constant Gardener

Tim Donohue

2005

Justin Quayle is a low-level British diplomat who has always gone about his work very quietly, not causing any problems. But after his radical wife Tessa is killed he becomes determined to find out why, thrusting himself into the middle of a very dangerous conspiracy.

Enigma

Leveret

2001

The story of the WWII project to crack the code behind the Enigma machine, used by the Germans to encrypt messages sent to their submarines.

Einstein and Eddington

Max Planck

2008

A look at the evolution of Albert Einstein's theory of relativity, and Einstein's relationship with British scientist Sir Arthur Eddington, the first physicist to understand his ideas.

London Boulevard

Pentonville Governor

2010

A parolee falls for a reclusive movie star while trying to evade a ruthless gangster.

The Man Who Invented Christmas

Haddock / Ghost of Marley

2017

In 1843, despite the fact that Dickens is a successful writer, the failure of his latest book puts his career at a crossroads, until the moment when, struggling with inspiration and confronting reality with his childhood memories, a new character is born in the depths of his troubled mind; an old, lonely, embittered man, so vivid, so human, that a whole world grows around him, a story so inspiring that changed the meaning of Christmas forever.

Richard III

Brackenbury

1995

A murderous lust for the British throne sees Richard III descend into madness. Though the setting is transposed to the 1930s, England is torn by civil war, split between the rivaling houses of York and Lancaster. Richard aspires to a fascist dictatorship, but must first remove the obstacles to his ascension—among them his brother, his nephews and his brother's wife. When the Duke of Buckingham deserts him, Richard's plans are compromised.

Curse of the Pink Panther

Dave

1983

Inspector Clouseau disappears, and the Surete wants the world's second best detective to look for him. However, Clouseau's enemy, Dreyfus, rigs the Surete's computer to select, instead, the world's WORST detective, NYPD Sgt. Clifton Sleigh. Sleigh obtusely bungles his way past assassins and corrupt officials as though he were Clouseau's American cousin.

Les Misérables

Agent

1978

In 19th century France, Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for stealing bread, must flee a relentless policeman named Javert. The pursuit consumes both men's lives, and soon Valjean finds himself in the midst of the student revolutions in France.