Biography
Who is Richard E. Grant?
Early life and real name
Richard E. Grant was born as Richard Grant Esterhuysen on May 5, 1957. His birthplace is Mbabane in the Protectorate of Swaziland, which is now Eswatini. He was born to Henrik Esterhuysen and Leonne Esterhuysen, and he has a younger brother named Stuart. His father worked as the head of education for the British government administration in the region.
As a boy, Richard attended St Mark's School in Mbabane. He then attended secondary school at Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa. In May 1976, he started at the University of Cape Town to study English and drama. He later moved to Britain in 1982, adopting his stage name and registering with Equity.
Acting career highlights
Richard made his film debut as the title character in the comedy Withnail and I in 1987. Following this project, he began appearing in various Hollywood films and British productions. His extensive filmography includes roles in Bram Stoker's Dracula, The Age of Innocence, Gosford Park, Penelope, The Iron Lady, and Saltburn.
In addition to feature films, Richard has appeared in numerous television programs. He played roles in Doctor Who, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Frasier, Game of Thrones, and Suspect. He also received critical acclaim for his supporting performance in Can You Ever Forgive Me?, earning Academy Award and BAFTA nominations.
Directing and other work
Richard wrote and directed the 2005 film Wah-Wah, which was loosely based on his own childhood experiences in Africa. The production starred Nicholas Hoult, Gabriel Byrne, Miranda Richardson, Julie Walters, and Emily Watson. He also kept a diary during the process, which was later published as a book titled The Wah-Wah Diaries.
Throughout his career, Richard has also worked extensively on the stage. He made his musical theatre debut playing Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady at the Theatre Royal in Sydney, and later reprised the role at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. He also performed in plays such as God of Carnage at the Theatre Royal in Bath.
Family and personal life
Richard was married to Joan Washington, and they have one daughter named Olivia Grant. He has lived and worked in the United Kingdom for many years after moving from Africa in the early 1980s. He has also participated in various television projects, including appearing on the second series of The Celebrity Traitors.
Birthday and age
Richard E. Grant was born on May 5, 1957, which makes Richard 69 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Richard shares the date with 34 other famous people.
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