TV Stars

Nigel Hawthorne: BAFTA-winning actor of Yes Minister and The Madness of King George

Uncover the life and career of Nigel Hawthorne, known for his iconic role in Yes Minister and Yes, Prime Minister. Read about his awards, stage work, and troubled relationship on the set of Demolition Man.

Kinsey Jones

☰ Questions & Answers show

Meet Nigel Hawthorne

If you’re a fan of the classic sitcom Yes Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, then you’ll know the name Nigel Hawthorne. He played the iconic Sir Humphrey Appleby and won four BAFTA Awards for his performance. But that’s not all – he was also nominated for an Academy Award for his role in the dramatic and moving The Madness of King George in 1994. And let’s not forget his Olivier and Tony Awards for his work in theater.

Hawthorne’s career started way back in 1950 when he made his stage debut in the Cape Town production of The Shop at Sly Corner. He later made his Broadway debut in 1974 in the play As You Like It.

But it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows for Hawthorne. During the filming of Demolition Man in 1993, he had a troubled relationship with both Sylvester Stallone and Wesley Snipes. He found their attitudes towards the film crew and fellow actors thoughtless and described his time on set as “miserable”.

Hawthorne also lent his voice to two Disney films – The Black Cauldron in 1985 and Tarzan in 1999.

Born in South Africa, Hawthorne attended St George’s Grammar School and Christian Brothers College where he played rugby. He later moved to England to pursue his acting career.

Sadly, Hawthorne passed away in 2001 from a heart attack. He had battled pancreatic cancer and undergone several operations. But his legacy lives on through his incredible performances and unforgettable characters.

What Was The Nationality of Nigel Hawthorne?

Nigel Hawthorne is an English actor born on April 5, 1929, in Coventry, England.

How Old Was Nigel Hawthorne?

Nigel Hawthorne was 72 years old at the time of his death. He was an Aries.

How Tall Was Nigel Hawthorne And How Much Did He Weigh?

Nigel Hawthorne was 5 feet 11 inches tall but his weight was undisclosed.

Was Nigel Hawthorne Married or Single?

Nigel Hawthorne never got married and was an intensely private person even as an actor. He was in a long relationship with his partner Trevor Bentham, a former English stage manager and screenwriter. Their relationship started in 1979 and continued until Hawthorne’s death in 2001. The couple lived together in Radwell near Baldock and in Thundridge in Hertfordshire, England.