Charles Dance
Charles Dance: A Distinguished Career Spanning Theatre, Film, and Television
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Charles Trotter Mahoney, known professionally as Charles Dance, was born on October 15, 1946.
#### Birth and Death Dates
October 15, 1946 - present
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
British actor, director, and novelist. His extensive career in the entertainment industry spans over four decades.
#### Early Life and Background
Born in Redditch, Worcestershire, England, Charles Dance grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) to hone his acting skills, where he graduated with honors in 1967.
During his early years, Dance worked extensively in theatre productions, including classical plays by Shakespeare and Shaw, as well as musicals. His early roles often featured him playing supporting characters or understudies, which provided valuable experience for a young actor.
#### Major Accomplishments
Dance's breakthrough role came when he was cast as Sergeant Wigram in the 1981 film "The French Lieutenant's Woman," directed by Karel Reisz. This marked the beginning of his film career, with subsequent notable roles in "A Passage to India" (1984) and "Hedda Gabler" (1990).
On television, Dance is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Tywin Lannister in HBO's hit series "Game of Thrones," which ran from 2011-2019. His performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.
Dance has also worked as a director on several projects, including the television miniseries "The Life and Loves of Lydia Bailey" (1973) and the film "Ladies in Lavender" (2004).
#### Notable Works or Actions
Throughout his career, Dance has appeared in numerous notable productions. Some of his most memorable roles include:
The Jewel in the Crown (1984): A BBC miniseries based on Paul Scott's Raj Quartet novels.
Fortunes of War (1987): Another BBC series, this time based on Olivia Manning's novel "The Balkan Trilogy."
* Last Action Hero (1993): An action-comedy film where Dance played the role of the villainous Benedict.
#### Impact and Legacy
Charles Dance has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His extensive body of work has showcased his versatility as an actor, director, and novelist. He continues to inspire new generations of actors and creators with his dedication to his craft.
Dance's influence extends beyond his own performances, as he has mentored numerous aspiring actors throughout his career. His commitment to excellence and professionalism has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected figures in British theatre and film.
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Charles Dance is widely quoted and remembered for his thought-provoking opinions on acting, directing, and storytelling. As an accomplished actor and director, he brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. His insights into the craft have been shared through various interviews and public appearances.
Dance's passion for theatre and film has made him a beloved figure in the industry. His ability to bring complex characters to life on screen has captivated audiences worldwide, cementing his place as one of the most talented actors of our time.
In conclusion, Charles Dance is an iconic figure whose contributions to the entertainment industry are immeasurable. From his early days in theatre to his rise to fame in film and television, he continues to inspire and delight audiences with his incredible range and talent.
Quotes by Charles Dance
I like to be busy. I once shared an agent with the late Sir John Gielgud, who, at 96, was apparently still ringing up, saying, 'Hello, Gielgud here, any work?' Good on him. We've got to keep working. If we retire, there'll be nobody to play the old wrinklies, and that would be a dreadful shame.
I've never been one for late nights, which is why I have always preferred making films to theatre. A play takes over your life: you start to feel sick at lunchtime, and by mid-afternoon, you're wishing for a bomb scare so the whole thing will be called off. Of course, if the evening goes well and you get the applause, then it's wonderful.
Audiences seem to have a limitless appetite for vampires and for fantasy in general. Unlike many other British actors, I haven't been building up my pension appearing in films like 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'Harry Potter,' but fantasy has now got a grip on me. I am also appearing in 'Game of Thrones' as the head of the House of Lannister.
The quality of writing attracts me to films, also who the other actors are, who the director is, where it's being shot. Any or all of those things. But if the writing is really appalling, then the money had better be really good. Sometimes you say yes to something you wouldn't always do because you need the money.
Actors can't retire. If actors retired, there would be nobody left to play old, wrinkly people. You have to keep going, darling - don't you?
My mother was a waitress in a Lyons Corner House, but she married up. She was keen on bettering herself. She taught me how to use the right knives and forks and behave properly.
You should encourage a child to show off. You can say to a child, 'Stop being rude,' 'Stop shouting,' 'Stop jumping around on the furniture.' But 'Stop showing off'? That's awful.
Runners are the lowest of the low in film units. They're paid very, very minimal wages - probably below the national average. And runners are now being asked to drive actors about, as well as their runner duties. It's kind of the same as taking advantage of nurses - it's appalling.
People think I have the benefit of a public school education. I have this suave and debonair label, but really, I'm as common as muck.
I think it's counterproductive for actors to come to the set with well-thumbed copies of the book their film is adapted from.