Gary Oldman

Gary Oldman is a renowned English actor and filmmaker known for his versatility and intense performances in a career spanning over four decades. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, with an ability to immerse himself in any role, making each character he portrays unforgettable.

ABOUT

Born on March 21, 1958, in New Cross, London, England, Gary Leonard Oldman has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards for his work in both film and television. Oldman won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour" (2017), adding to his extensive list of accolades that include a Golden Globe Award, three British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Oldman's career is marked by his collaborations with notable directors and an impressive range of roles—from historical figures to fictional characters in various genres. Some of his most iconic roles include Sid Vicious in "Sid and Nancy" (1986), Dracula in "Bram Stoker's Dracula" (1992), Commissioner Gordon in Christopher Nolan's "Dark Knight" trilogy, and Sirius Black in the "Harry Potter" series.

BEFORE FAME

Before rising to fame, Oldman had a challenging upbringing. He dropped out of school at the age of 16 to work in a sports shop but soon found his passion for acting. He attended the Young People's Theatre in Greenwich and later received a scholarship to attend the prestigious Rose Bruford College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Acting in 1979.

Oldman's early career began in theatre, where he performed with the Citizens Theatre in Glasgow and the Royal Court Theatre in London. His breakthrough in film came with his portrayal of punk rocker Sid Vicious in "Sid and Nancy," which established him as a talent to watch and led to more significant roles in both British and American cinema.

TRIVIA

• Gary Oldman is known for his ability to transform his appearance and voice for roles, often making his characters almost unrecognizable.
• Besides acting, Oldman has directed and produced films. His directorial debut, "Nil by Mouth" (1997), received critical acclaim and won several awards.
• He is also a musician and has showcased his musical talents in several films.
• Oldman was offered and declined the role of General Grievous in "Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith" (2005) due to prior commitments.
• He has struggled with alcoholism in the past but has been sober for several years.

FAMILY LIFE

Gary Oldman has been married multiple times. His first marriage was to actress Lesley Manville in 1987, with whom he has a son named Alfie. After their divorce in 1990, Oldman married actress Uma Thurman in 1990, but they divorced in 1992. He has been married to Alexandra Edenborough, singer and writer, from 2008 to 2015. In 2017, Oldman married art curator Gisele Schmidt.

Oldman also has two sons, Gulliver and Charlie, from his marriage to Donya Fiorentino, which lasted from 1997 to 2001. Despite difficult relationships in the past, Oldman shares a close bond with his children.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Gary Oldman has collaborated with numerous esteemed actors and directors throughout his career. Notable associations include working with Christopher Nolan in the "Dark Knight" trilogy alongside actors Christian Bale and Michael Caine. His role as Sirius Black in the "Harry Potter" series saw him acting opposite Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and the late Alan Rickman.

Oldman has also appeared in films directed by Luc Besson ("Léon: The Professional"), Francis Ford Coppola ("Bram Stoker's Dracula"), and Ridley Scott ("Hannibal"). His outstanding performances and professional collaborations have left an indelible mark on cinema history.

In summary, Gary Oldman's illustrious career and profound impact on the world of acting make him a true icon in the entertainment industry. His dedication to his craft and ability to portray a wide range of characters continue to captivate audiences worldwide.