Richard Briers

Born:January 14, 1934

Place of Birth:Raynes Park, Surrey, England, UK

Died:February 17, 2013

Known For:Acting

Biography

Richard Briers, a distinguished English actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his versatile talents across television, stage, film, and radio. With a career spanning over five decades, Briers captivated audiences with his remarkable performances in various mediums.

One of his notable early roles was as George Starling in the beloved television series "Marriage Lines" from 1961 to 1966. However, it was his portrayal of Tom Good in the iconic BBC sitcom "The Good Life" from 1975 to 1978 that truly propelled him to widespread recognition and made him a household name. Briers' impeccable comedic timing and endearing charm endeared him to audiences around the world.

In addition to his television success, Briers lent his distinctive voice to animated series like "Roobarb" and "Noah and Nelly in... SkylArk," showcasing his versatility as a performer. His portrayal of Martin in "Ever Decreasing Circles" from 1984 to 1989 further solidified his reputation as a talented actor capable of bringing depth and nuance to his characters.

Briers' talent was not limited to the small screen, as he also made a significant impact on the stage. Collaborating with acclaimed director Kenneth Branagh, Briers took on challenging Shakespearean roles in productions such as "Henry V," "Much Ado About Nothing," "Hamlet," and "As You Like It." His command of the language and ability to inhabit complex characters earned him critical acclaim and admiration from his peers.

One of his memorable later roles was as Hector in the beloved series "Monarch of the Glen" from 2000 to 2005, where he once again showcased his versatility and range as an actor. Briers' ability to effortlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles solidified his status as a versatile performer with a lasting impact on the entertainment landscape.

Throughout his illustrious career, Richard Briers received numerous accolades for his contributions to the arts, including a CBE for his services to drama. His legacy continues to endure, with his performances serving as a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for the craft of acting. Richard Briers will always be remembered as a beloved and respected figure in the world of entertainment, whose influence transcends generations.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Peter Pan

Sam "Smee" Smiegel

2003

In stifling Edwardian London, Wendy Darling mesmerizes her brothers every night with bedtime tales of swordplay, swashbuckling and the fearsome Captain Hook. But the children become the heroes of an even greater story, when Peter Pan flies into their nursery one night and leads them over moonlit rooftops through a galaxy of stars and to the lush jungles of Neverland.

Watership Down

Fiver (voice)

1978

When the warren belonging to a community of rabbits is threatened, a brave group led by Fiver, Bigwig, Blackberry and Hazel leave their homeland in a search of a safe new haven.

Hamlet

Polonius

1996

Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, returns home to find his father murdered and his mother now marrying the murderer... his uncle. Meanwhile, war is brewing.

The Three Musketeers

Louis XIII (voice)

1973

The young D'Artagnan arrives in Paris with dreams of becoming a King's musketeer. He meets and quarrels with three men, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, each of whom challenges him to a duel. D'Artagnan finds out they are musketeers and is invited to join them in their efforts to oppose Cardinal Richelieu, who wishes to increase his already considerable power over the King. D'Artagnan must also juggle affairs with the charming Constance Bonancieux and the passionate Lady De Winter, a secret agent for the Cardinal.

Much Ado About Nothing

Signor Leonato

1993

In this Shakespearean farce, Hero and her groom-to-be, Claudio, team up with Claudio's commanding officer, Don Pedro, the week before their wedding to hatch a matchmaking scheme. Their targets are sharp-witted duo Benedick and Beatrice -- a tough task indeed, considering their corresponding distaste for love and each other. Meanwhile, meddling Don John plots to ruin the wedding.

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Grandfather

1994

Victor Frankenstein is a promising young doctor who, devastated by the death of his mother during childbirth, becomes obsessed with bringing the dead back to life. His experiments lead to the creation of a monster, which Frankenstein has put together with the remains of corpses. It's not long before Frankenstein regrets his actions.

Spice World

Bishop

1997

World famous pop group the Spice Girls zip around London in their luxurious double decker tour bus having various adventures and performing for their fans.

Henry V

Lieutenant Bardolph

1989

In the midst of the Hundred Years War, the young King Henry V of England embarks on the conquest of France in 1415.

Murder She Said

'Mrs Binster'

1961

Miss Marple believes she's seen a murder in a passing-by train, yet when the police find no evidence she decides to investigate it on her own.

As You Like It

Adam

2006

Witty, playful and utterly magical, the story is a compelling romantic adventure in which Rosalind and Orlando's celebrated courtship is played out against a backdrop of political rivalry, banishment and exile in the Forest of Arden - set in 19th-century Japan.