Harriet Walter

Harriet Walter is an English actress known for her stage and film roles, including Ophelia in Hamlet, Lady Macbeth in Macbeth, and Aunt Eller in Oklahoma!.

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Birth Name :

Harriet Mary Walter

Profession :

Stage Actress

Birthday :

September 24, 1950

Star Sign :

Libra

Age :

74

Birthplace :

London, England

Harriet Walter is an acclaimed English actress who has captivated audiences with her remarkable performances on stage and screen for over four decades. Born on September 24, 1950, in London, Walter’s passion for acting led her to train at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

Walter’s career took flight in 1974 when she made her professional stage debut in “The Merchant of Venice” at the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Since then, she has become synonymous with Shakespearean roles, gracing the stage in iconic productions such as “Hamlet,” “King Lear,” “Twelfth Night,” and “The Tempest.” Her versatility extends to contemporary plays by esteemed playwrights like Tom Stoppard, David Hare, and Alan Ayckbourn. Notable stage triumphs include “The Importance of Being Earnest” (1982), “Amadeus” (1986), “The Cherry Orchard” (1989), and “The Seagull” (2007).

Walter’s exceptional talent has garnered critical acclaim and prestigious awards. She received the Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her captivating performance in “The Importance of Being Earnest” (1983). Her remarkable work in “Amadeus” (1987), “The Cherry Orchard” (1990), and “The Seagull” (2008) earned her additional Olivier Award nominations. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to drama, Walter was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2011.

Beyond her stage triumphs, Walter has graced television and film screens with her captivating presence. Audiences may recognize her from her portrayal of Lady Prudence Shackleton in the popular series “Downton Abbey” (2013-2015). Her filmography boasts notable works such as “Sense and Sensibility” (1995), “The Governess” (1998), “Villain” (2013), and “The Sense of an Ending” (2017).

Walter’s talents extend beyond acting. She is an accomplished voice actress, lending her voice to numerous audiobooks, including works by literary giants Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. Her vocal prowess also shines in musical theater, where she has performed in productions like “Sweeney Todd” and “Follies.”

A dedicated philanthropist, Walter actively supports charitable causes close to her heart, including the National Theatre and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. In her personal life, she finds joy in spending time with her husband, actor Guy Paul, and their two children, Alexander and Lily.

Harriet Walter’s illustrious career continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Her versatility, talent, and dedication to her craft have solidified her status as one of the most celebrated actresses of our time.