# Rex Harrison

> British actor (1908–1990)

**Wikidata**: [Q181887](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q181887)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rex_Harrison)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/rex-harrison

## Summary
Rex Harrison was a British actor renowned for his work in film, stage, and television. He is best known for his iconic role as Professor Henry Higgins in *My Fair Lady* (1964), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor. His career spanned over five decades, earning him critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including Tony Awards and a knighthood.

## Biography
- **Born**: March 5, 1908
- **Died**: June 2, 1990
- **Nationality**: British (United Kingdom)
- **Education**: Attended Liverpool College and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)
- **Known for**: Acclaimed performances in *My Fair Lady*, *Cleopatra*, and *The Ghost and Mrs. Muir*
- **Field(s)**: Acting (film, stage, television)
- **Awards**: Academy Award for Best Actor (1964), Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play (1949, 1957), Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical (1957), Knight Bachelor (1989), Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, David di Donatello for Best Foreign Actor

## Contributions
Rex Harrison made significant contributions to the performing arts through his versatile roles in theater, film, and television. His portrayal of Professor Henry Higgins in *My Fair Lady* (1964) earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood. On stage, he won Tony Awards for his performances in *Anne of the Thousand Days* (1949) and *My Fair Lady* (1957), showcasing his mastery of both dramatic and musical roles. Additionally, he received a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for *My Fair Lady*, further establishing his reputation as a multifaceted performer. His work in *Cleopatra* (1963) and *The Ghost and Mrs. Muir* (1947) also garnered critical acclaim, demonstrating his range as an actor. Harrison was knighted in 1989 for his contributions to the arts, and he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his legacy in entertainment history.

## FAQs

**What was Rex Harrison's most famous role?**
Rex Harrison is best remembered for his role as Professor Henry Higgins in the film *My Fair Lady* (1964), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. His portrayal of the pompous yet charming linguist became iconic and remains one of the most celebrated performances in cinematic history.

**What awards did Rex Harrison win?**
Harrison won an Academy Award for Best Actor for *My Fair Lady* (1964), two Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play (*Anne of the Thousand Days* in 1949 and *My Fair Lady* in 1957), and a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical (*My Fair Lady* in 1957). He was also knighted in 1989 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

**What was Rex Harrison's background in acting?**
Harrison began his acting career in the 1930s, performing in both stage and film productions. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and honed his craft in British theater before transitioning to Hollywood, where he became a prominent leading man.

**Did Rex Harrison serve in World War II?**
Yes, Rex Harrison served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II, contributing to the war effort before resuming his acting career.

**What was Rex Harrison's legacy in the entertainment industry?**
Harrison's legacy lies in his ability to seamlessly transition between stage and screen, delivering memorable performances in both dramatic and comedic roles. His work in *My Fair Lady* and other classics has left a lasting impact on the performing arts, influencing generations of actors.

## Why They Matter
Rex Harrison's contributions to film and theater have had a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His portrayal of complex, charismatic characters set a high standard for acting, particularly in musicals and period dramas. His Academy Award-winning performance in *My Fair Lady* remains a benchmark for actors in both stage and film adaptations. Additionally, his knighthood and star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame reflect his enduring influence and recognition as one of Britain's greatest actors. Harrison's work continues to inspire actors and audiences alike, ensuring his place in the history of performing arts.

## Notable For
- Winning the **Academy Award for Best Actor** for *My Fair Lady* (1964)
- Receiving **two Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play** (*Anne of the Thousand Days* in 1949 and *My Fair Lady* in 1957)
- Winning a **Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical** for *My Fair Lady* (1957)
- Being knighted as a **Knight Bachelor** in 1989 for his contributions to the arts
- Receiving a **star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame**
- Winning the **David di Donatello for Best Foreign Actor** for his role in *My Fair Lady*
- His iconic portrayal of **Professor Henry Higgins** in *My Fair Lady*, which became one of the most celebrated performances in film history
- His versatile career spanning **film, stage, and television**, with notable roles in *Cleopatra* (1963) and *The Ghost and Mrs. Muir* (1947)
- His service in the **Royal Air Force (RAF)** during World War II

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Rex Harrison was born **Reginald Carey Harrison** on **March 5, 1908**, in Huyton, Lancashire, England. He attended **Liverpool College** and later trained at the **Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)**, where he developed his acting skills. His early career began in British theater, where he gained recognition for his stage performances before transitioning to film.

### Career in Film and Stage
Harrison's career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the most respected actors in both film and theater. He made his film debut in the 1930s and quickly rose to prominence with roles in films such as *The Ghost and Mrs. Muir* (1947) and *Cleopatra* (1963). However, his most iconic role came in 1964 with *My Fair Lady*, where he played **Professor Henry Higgins**, a performance that earned him an **Academy Award for Best Actor**.

On stage, Harrison was equally celebrated. He won **Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play** for his performances in *Anne of the Thousand Days* (1949) and *My Fair Lady* (1957), as well as a **Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical** for *My Fair Lady* (1957). His ability to excel in both dramatic and musical roles showcased his versatility as an actor.

### Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Harrison received numerous accolades, including:
- **Academy Award for Best Actor** (1964) for *My Fair Lady*
- **Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play** (1949) for *Anne of the Thousand Days*
- **Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play** (1957) for *My Fair Lady*
- **Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical** (1957) for *My Fair Lady*
- **Knight Bachelor** (1989) for his contributions to the arts
- **Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame**
- **David di Donatello for Best Foreign Actor** for *My Fair Lady*

### Military Service
During **World War II**, Harrison served in the **Royal Air Force (RAF)**, contributing to the war effort before returning to his acting career.

### Legacy and Influence
Rex Harrison's legacy in the entertainment industry is marked by his exceptional talent and versatility. His performances in *My Fair Lady* and other classics have left a lasting impact on film and theater, influencing generations of actors. His knighthood and star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame are testaments to his enduring contributions to the arts. Harrison's work continues to be celebrated, ensuring his place as one of Britain's greatest actors.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. The Peerage
3. Source
4. BnF authorities
5. datos.bne.es
6. Find a Grave
7. [Source](https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1965)
8. International Standard Name Identifier
9. Virtual International Authority File
10. MusicBrainz
11. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
12. SNAC
13. Internet Broadway Database
14. Discogs
15. filmportal.de
16. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
17. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
18. GeneaStar
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23. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
24. BBC Things
25. The Movie Database
26. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
27. performing-arts.ch