# Richard Burton

> Welsh actor (1925–1984)

**Wikidata**: [Q151973](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q151973)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Burton)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/richard-burton

## Summary

Richard Burton was a renowned Welsh actor who became one of the most celebrated performers of the 20th century, known for his powerful voice and dramatic presence in both stage and film productions. Born Richard Walter Jenkins on November 10, 1925, in Wales, he rose from humble beginnings to become a commanding figure in theatre and cinema, earning multiple prestigious awards including Tony Awards, Golden Globes, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His career spanned four decades, from his stage debut in 1944 until his death in 1984, during which he appeared in numerous landmark films and became particularly famous for his tumultuous personal life and his relationship with Elizabeth Taylor.

## Biography

- **Born**: November 10, 1925 (birth name: Richard Walter Jenkins)
- **Died**: August 5, 1984
- **Nationality**: Welsh, British
- **Education**: Exeter College, University of Oxford
- **Known for**: One of the greatest stage and film actors of the 20th century, known for his dramatic interpretations and powerful voice
- **Employer(s)**: Theatre productions worldwide, film studios in Hollywood and Britain
- **Field(s)**: Acting, film production, directing

## Contributions

Richard Burton made substantial contributions to theatre and film throughout his career:

- **Stage Career**: Debuted in 1944 and became one of the most acclaimed stage actors of his generation, performing in classical and contemporary productions
- **Film Career**: Appeared in over 60 films throughout his career, including many critically acclaimed performances
- **Notable Films**: Starred in numerous major Hollywood productions, becoming a leading man in the 1950s and 1960s
- **Directing and Producing**: Worked as a film director and film producer in addition to acting
- **Diaries**: Known as a diarist, leaving behind personal journals that provide insight into his life and times
- **Recording Career**: Won a Grammy Award for his spoken word or dramatic recordings
- **Theatre Recognition**: Received multiple Tony Awards including Best Actor in a Musical and a Special Tony Award
- **Film Recognition**: Won Golden Globe Awards for his performances
- **International Recognition**: Awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry
- **Honors**: Appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to drama

## FAQs

**What was Richard Burton's real name?**
Richard Burton was born Richard Walter Jenkins, using his stage name professionally throughout his career.

**Where was Richard Burton educated?**
Richard Burton attended Exeter College at the University of Oxford, one of the most prestigious institutions in Britain.

**What awards did Richard Burton win?**
Richard Burton received numerous awards including Theatre World Award, Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical, Special Tony Award, Golden Globe Awards, Grammy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was also appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

**What was unique about Richard Burton's voice?**
Richard Burton was renowned for his distinctive, powerful voice, which became one of his most recognizable attributes as an actor and made him ideal for dramatic roles and narration.

**Was Richard Burton involved in any business ventures?**
Richard Burton owned the famous La Peregrina pearl, one of the most celebrated pearls in history, which he purchased during his marriage to Elizabeth Taylor.

## Why They Matter

Richard Burton matters as one of the most influential actors of the 20th century, setting standards for dramatic performance that continue to influence actors today. His command of the stage, particularly in Shakespearean and classical roles, established him as a worthy successor to the great theatrical traditions of the past. In cinema, he brought gravitas and intensity to his roles, helping to elevate the artistic standards of Hollywood films during his era. His career bridged the gap between traditional theatre and modern film, demonstrating remarkable versatility across different mediums. His willingness to take on challenging roles in both commercial and artistic films expanded the possibilities for actor-driven cinema. Additionally, his recorded readings of literature and his Grammy-winning spoken word albums contributed to the popularization of poetry and literature in mainstream culture. His influence extends to subsequent generations of actors who study his techniques and draw inspiration from his approach to character development and emotional depth.

## Notable For

- One of the greatest Welsh actors in history
- Known for his powerful, distinctive voice
- Multiple Tony Award winner (Best Actor in a Musical, Special Tony Award)
- Golden Globe Award winner
- Grammy Award winner
- Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
- Owner of the famous La Peregrina pearl
- Renowned stage actor performing in both classical and contemporary productions
- Prolific film actor with over 60 films to his credit
- Noted diarist whose journals provide personal insights
- Exeter College, Oxford alumnus

## Body

### Early Life and Background

Richard Burton was born Richard Walter Jenkins on November 10, 1925, in Wales. His birth occurred during the era of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, which would later become the modern United Kingdom in 1927. He grew up in Wales and developed his passion for performance from an early age. His Welsh heritage remained an important part of his identity throughout his life, and he often incorporated elements of Welsh culture into his work and public persona.

### Education

Burton attended Exeter College at the University of Oxford, one of Britain's most prestigious educational institutions. Founded in 1314, Exeter College provided Burton with a classical education that would serve him well in his theatrical career. His time at Oxford exposed him to the great traditions of English theatre and literature, which would profoundly influence his approach to acting. The institution, located in Oxford, England (a constituent nation of the United Kingdom), gave Burton the foundation upon which he would build his legendary career.

### Career Beginnings

Richard Burton began his professional acting career in 1944, marking the start of a four-decade-long journey through some of the most celebrated productions in theatre and film. His early career was built on the stage, where he quickly established himself as a talent to watch. He performed in various theatre productions, honing his craft and developing the powerful dramatic presence that would become his trademark.

### Stage Career

Burton became one of the most acclaimed stage actors of his generation, appearing in both classical and contemporary productions. His stage work included numerous Shakespearean roles, where his powerful voice and emotional depth brought characters to life in ways that captivated audiences. He performed in London's West End and on Broadway, earning critical acclaim wherever he performed. His stage career earned him multiple Theatre World Awards and Tony Awards, including the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical and a Special Tony Award, recognizing his contributions to American theatre.

### Film Career

In addition to his stage work, Burton built an impressive film career spanning over 60 films. He worked as both an actor and occasionally as a film director and film producer, demonstrating versatility behind the camera as well as in front of it. His film roles ranged from historical epics to intimate dramas, and he became known for his ability to bring depth and complexity to every character he portrayed. His performances earned him Golden Globe Awards and cemented his status as a Hollywood leading man.

### Recognition and Awards

Throughout his career, Richard Burton received numerous accolades recognizing his exceptional talent. He was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), an honor recognizing his contributions to drama. He won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical and a Special Tony Award, establishing him as a major figure in American theatre. His film work earned him Golden Globe Awards, and his spoken word recordings won him a Grammy Award. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, ensuring his legacy in the entertainment industry. His work also earned him recognition in the form of various other awards and honors throughout his career.

### Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond his professional achievements, Burton was known for his personal life, including his relationship with fellow actor Elizabeth Taylor. He was the owner of the famous La Peregrina pearl, a remarkable gemstone with a storied history. His diaries provide personal insights into his life and times, establishing him as a notable diarist whose writings continue to be studied by historians and biographers.

Richard Burton died on August 5, 1984, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence actors and entertainers today. His work period spanned from 1944 to 1984, covering four decades of continuous contribution to the performing arts. His citizenship was with the United Kingdom, and he maintained connections to both Wales and England throughout his life. His career exemplified the highest standards of theatrical and cinematic performance, and his influence continues to be felt in the entertainment industry decades after his passing.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.biographyonline.net/actors/richard-burton.html)
2. Integrated Authority File
3. BnF authorities
4. Genealogics
5. The Peerage
6. Burton
7. [The New York Times](http://www.nytimes.com/1983/05/09/theater/theater-private-lives-burton-and-miss-taylor.html)
8. [HOLLIS](https://id.lib.harvard.edu/alma/99157150177103941/catalog)
9. [Source](http://www.theatreworldawards.org/past-recipients.html)
10. [Source](https://www.tonyawards.com/nominees/year/1961/category/any/show/any/)
11. International Standard Name Identifier
12. Virtual International Authority File
13. CiNii Research
14. MusicBrainz
15. Richard Burton. Integrated Authority File
16. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
17. SNAC
18. Internet Broadway Database
19. Find a Grave
20. filmportal.de
21. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
22. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
23. Roglo
24. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
25. Norwegian Authority File: Persons and Corporate Bodies
26. [Mr Burton: The teacher who helped propel Richard Burton to fame. 2025](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9djl533glxo)
27. [BnF authorities](http://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb13892004p)
28. CONOR.SI
29. BBC Things
30. The Movie Database
31. [LIBRIS. 2008](https://libris.kb.se/katalogisering/rp3581t95g4x4gg)
32. performing-arts.ch