Esmond Knight

Born:May 4, 1906

Place of Birth:East Sheen, Surrey, England

Died:February 23, 1987

Known For:Acting

Biography

Esmond Penington Knight, born on May 4, 1906, was a distinguished English actor whose career spanned over five decades. Despite facing significant challenges, Knight's talent and determination shone through in his performances on stage and screen.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Knight's life was his resilience in the face of adversity. Following a severe injury while serving on HMS Prince of Wales during World War II, he was left almost completely blind for two years. Despite this setback, Knight continued to pursue his passion for acting, showcasing his remarkable strength of character.

During his illustrious career, Knight portrayed a wide range of characters, captivating audiences with his versatility and depth. His portrayal of the captain of HMS Prince of Wales in the 1960 film "Sink the Bismarck!" stands out as a testament to his dedication to his craft.

In 1961, Knight took on the role of Professor Ernest Reinhart in the British science fiction series "A for Andromeda," where he showcased his talent alongside esteemed actors Patricia Kneale and Peter Halliday. His performance in the series further solidified his reputation as a skilled and versatile actor.

Knight's legacy in the entertainment industry extended beyond his own accomplishments. His daughter, the talented actress Rosalind Knight, followed in his footsteps, carrying on the family's acting tradition with her own successful career on stage and screen.

On February 23, 1987, Esmond Knight passed away due to a heart attack, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of acting. His contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated, inspiring future generations of performers.

Throughout his life, Knight's unwavering passion for acting and his ability to overcome obstacles left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of watching him perform. His dedication to his craft and his resilience in the face of challenges serve as a true inspiration to aspiring actors everywhere.

Esmond Knight's remarkable journey, from battling blindness to becoming a revered actor, is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to his art. His legacy lives on through his timeless performances and the enduring impact he has had on the world of entertainment.

As fans and critics alike reflect on Knight's contributions to the acting world, his name remains synonymous with talent, perseverance, and the transformative power of storytelling. His memory continues to be honored and his work cherished by all who appreciate the art of acting.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Sink the Bismarck!

Captain Leach - 'Prince of Wales'

1960

The story of the breakout of the German battleship Bismarck—accompanied by the heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen—during the early days of World War II. The Bismarck and her sister ship, Tirpitz, were the most powerful battleships in the European theater of World War II. The British Navy must find and destroy Bismarck before it can escape into the convoy lanes to inflict severe damage on the cargo shipping which was the lifeblood of the British Isles. With eight 15 inch guns, it was capable of destroying every ship in a convoy while remaining beyond the range of all Royal Navy warships.

Superman IV: The Quest for Peace

Second Elder

1987

With global superpowers engaged in an increasingly hostile arms race, Superman leads a crusade to rid the world of nuclear weapons. But Lex Luthor, recently sprung from jail, is declaring war on the Man of Steel and his quest to save the planet. Using a strand of Superman's hair, Luthor synthesizes a powerful ally known as Nuclear Man and ignites an epic battle spanning Earth and space.

Peeping Tom

Arthur Baden

1960

Loner Mark Lewis works at a film studio during the day and, at night, takes racy photographs of women. Also he's making a documentary on fear, which involves recording the reactions of victims as he murders them. He befriends Helen, the daughter of the family living in the apartment below his, and he tells her vaguely about the movie he is making.

The Red Shoes

Livy

1948

In this classic drama, Vicky Page is an aspiring ballerina torn between her dedication to dance and her desire to love. While her imperious instructor, Boris Lermontov, urges to her to forget anything but ballet, Vicky begins to fall for the charming young composer Julian Craster. Eventually Vicky, under great emotional stress, must choose to pursue either her art or her romance, a decision that carries serious consequences.

Black Narcissus

The Old General

1947

A group of Anglican nuns, led by Sister Clodagh, are sent to a mountain in the Himalayas. The climate in the region is hostile and the nuns are housed in an odd old palace. They work to establish a school and a hospital, but slowly their focus shifts. Sister Ruth falls for a government worker, Mr. Dean, and begins to question her vow of celibacy. As Sister Ruth obsesses over Mr. Dean, Sister Clodagh becomes immersed in her own memories of love.

Production

The Dark Avenger

Dialogue Coach

1955

Edward, Prince of Wales, son and heir to his father King Edward III of England, leads an English army to the French province of Aquitaine to protect the inhabitant from the ravages of the French. After defeating the French in battle, the defeated French plot to kill the prince. Failing in this, they kidnap his lady, the lovely Lady Joan Holland. Of course Prince Edward has to ride to the rescue, adopting numerous guises to save his paramour, which ultimately end in him leading his men into one final climactic battle against the French. (Also known as "The Warriors" and "The Black Prince").