Introduction
Laurence Harvey was a prominent British actor who made a remarkable contribution to the world of cinema. He was born on October 1, 1928, in Lithuania, and later moved to South Africa with his family. Harvey started his career in the theatre before making his way to Hollywood. He is best known for his roles in films like “Room at the Top,” “The Alamo,” and “The Manchurian Candidate.” Harvey’s talent and charisma made him a celebrated figure in the film industry, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors worldwide. This blog post will explore the life and legacy of Laurence Harvey, including his biography, filmography, and family.
Biography
Early Life and Career
Laurence Harvey was born Zvi Mosheh Skikne in Joniškis, Lithuania, to Jewish parents. His family moved to South Africa when he was a child, and he grew up in Johannesburg. Harvey attended the University of Witwatersrand, where he studied psychology and political science. However, he dropped out of college to pursue a career in acting. Harvey started his career in the theatre, performing in various productions in South Africa and London. He made his film debut in 1951 in the British film “The Gentle Gunman.”
Rise to Fame
Harvey’s breakthrough role came in 1958 when he starred in the British film “Room at the Top.” The film was a critical and commercial success, and Harvey’s performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He went on to star in several successful films, including “The Alamo” and “The Manchurian Candidate.” Harvey was known for his intense and brooding performances, and his talent made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. However, he was also known for his difficult personality and clashes with directors and co-stars.
Filmography
Room at the Top
“Room at the Top” is a 1958 British film directed by Jack Clayton. The film stars Laurence Harvey as Joe Lampton, a young man from a working-class background who is determined to climb the social ladder. Harvey’s performance in the film earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. “Room at the Top” is considered a classic of British cinema and is often cited as one of the best films of the 1950s.
The Manchurian Candidate
“The Manchurian Candidate” is a 1962 American film directed by John Frankenheimer. The film stars Laurence Harvey as Raymond Shaw, a Korean War veteran who is brainwashed by the Communist Party. Harvey’s performance in the film is considered one of his best, and the film is regarded as a classic of political thriller cinema. “The Manchurian Candidate” was remade in 2004, but the original film remains a beloved classic.
Family
Children
Laurence Harvey was married three times and had two children. He had a daughter, Domino, with his second wife, Joan Perry. Domino Harvey was a former model and bounty hunter who passed away in 2005 at the age of 35. Harvey also had a son, Lawrence, with his third wife, Paulene Stone. Lawrence Harvey is a successful film producer and director.
Mother
Laurence Harvey had a complicated relationship with his mother, Ella Skikne. Ella was a strong-willed and ambitious woman who pushed her son to succeed in his career. However, their relationship was strained, and Harvey often felt suffocated by his mother’s influence. Ella passed away in 1978, and Harvey was devastated by her death.
Conclusion
Laurence Harvey was a talented and complex individual who left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. His performances in films like “Room at the Top” and “The Manchurian Candidate” continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Harvey’s life and legacy are a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and hard work. He may be gone, but his contributions to the film industry will never be forgotten.
