David Paul Scofield (21 January 1922 – 19 March 2008), known professionally as Paul Scofield, was an English actor celebrated for his resonant speaking voice and measured delivery. His work spanned theatre, film and television, and he is widely remembered for a single, defining screen role.
Early life
Scofield was born in Birmingham, in the county of Warwickshire, England, on 21 January 1922. He grew up in Hurstpierpoint, Sussex, and received his schooling at Varndean Secondary School before beginning his professional acting career.
Stage and screen
Although he appeared in many stage productions throughout his career, Scofield became internationally known for his portrayal of Sir Thomas More. He played the role on film in the 1966 adaptation A Man for All Seasons, and had earlier and later performed the same part in theatre productions at the West End and on Broadway.
Awards and recognition
- For the film version of A Man for All Seasons he won an Academy Award for Best Actor and received a BAFTA Award for the same performance.
- His stage work on the role also earned him a Tony Award.
Personal life and death
Scofield married Joy Parker in 1943; the couple remained together until his death and had two children. He died on 19 March 2008 in Sussex after a period of illness caused by leukemia, at the age of 86.