Marius Goring

Biography

Marius Re Goring CBE FRSL, born on May 23, 1912, was a distinguished English stage and screen actor. Son of Dr. Charles Buckman Goring, a prominent physician and criminologist, and Kate Winifred, a former suffragette and talented pianist, Marius Goring's upbringing was a blend of intellect and artistry. Educated at prestigious institutions in England, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Paris, he honed his linguistic skills in French and German, becoming fluent in both languages.

Goring's theatrical journey began at a young age, with his first stage appearance at twelve in a play by Walter De La Mare. He trained under the guidance of Harcourt Williams at the Old Vic dramatic school, making his London debut in 1927. Throughout the 1930s, he graced the stages of Old Vic and Sadler's Wells, showcasing his versatility in roles like Macbeth, Romeo, and the Chorus in Henry V alongside Laurence Olivier.

During World War II, Goring's path took a unique turn as he joined the army before being seconded to the BBC to supervise productions for its German Service. Under the alias Charles Richardson, he delivered propaganda broadcasts to Germany, navigating a challenging time when his surname bore an unfortunate resemblance to a notorious figure of the era.

In 1941, Goring entered into a marriage with the esteemed German Jewish actress Lucie Mannheim, with whom he shared both stage and screen. Their collaboration endured for years, reflecting their shared passion for the craft and their resilience in the face of historical turmoil.

A stalwart figure in the entertainment industry, Goring was a founding member of British Equity and served on its council for decades. Despite his contributions, his relationship with the union soured in the 1970s, leading to legal disputes that posed financial challenges. His commitment to his craft and principles remained steadfast, even in the midst of adversity.

Recognized for his literary contributions, Goring was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 1979, a testament to his multifaceted talents. In 1991, he was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), a fitting acknowledgment of his significant impact on the cultural landscape.

Marius Goring's legacy transcends his performances, as he left an indelible mark on British theatre and cinema. His passing in 1998 from stomach cancer marked the end of an era, leaving behind his third wife, Prudence FitzGerald, and his daughter Phyllida, a testament to his enduring influence on both the stage and screen.