Derek Jacobi

Derek Jacobi is an English actor whose distinguished career has spanned over six decades across theatre, film, and television. Renowned for his classical training and commanding presence, he is celebrated for his portrayals of historical and literary figures, particularly in the works of William Shakespeare. His contributions to the performing arts have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a knighthood.

Early life and education

Derek George Jacobi was born in Leytonstone, then part of Essex, to Daisy Gertrude and Alfred George Jacobi. His early interest in performance was nurtured at Leyton County High School for Boys, where he participated in school plays. A pivotal moment came when he won a scholarship to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), but he instead chose to study history at St John's College, Cambridge. At Cambridge University, he was a prominent member of the Cambridge University Dramatic Society and the Footlights, performing alongside future luminaries like Ian McKellen. His performance as Edward II in a Marlovian production caught the attention of a visiting Birmingham Repertory Theatre director, setting the stage for his professional debut.

Stage career

Jacobi's professional stage career began with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre in 1960. His breakthrough came when he was invited by Laurence Olivier to join the inaugural company of the National Theatre at the Old Vic in 1963. There, he delivered acclaimed performances in productions like *Othello* and The Royal Hunt of the Sun. He established himself as a leading classical actor with the Prospect Theatre Company, earning particular acclaim for his Hamlet in a 1977 production that transferred to the Old Vic. His long association with the Royal Shakespeare Company includes celebrated roles such as Pericles and Cyrano de Bergerac. In the West End, he triumphed in plays like Breaking the Code and Uncle Vanya, and later captivated audiences on Broadway in *The Suicide* and as King Lear.

Film and television career

Jacobi first gained widespread public recognition through television, notably playing the title role in the landmark BBC series I, Claudius (1976), for which he won a BAFTA TV Award. He has since appeared in numerous prestigious television dramas, including The Day of the Jackal, The Tenth Man, and Cadfael, where he played the titular medieval monk. His film work ranges from historical epics like The Odessa File and Henry V to major franchises, portraying the Master in Doctor Who and providing narration for BBC's The Last of the Mohicans. He received a Primetime Emmy Award for his supporting role in the HBO film The Gathering Storm.

Personal life

Jacobi has been in a relationship with Richard Clifford, a fellow actor and director, since the 1970s. The couple entered into a civil partnership in 2006 and later converted it to a marriage. Jacobi has been open about his sexuality in later years, acknowledging the professional constraints felt by many gay actors of his generation. He is a lifelong supporter of West Ham United football club and resides in Hampstead, London. Alongside his acting, he is a noted patron of several arts and charitable organizations, including the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and Mousetrap Theatre Projects.

Awards and honours

Jacobi's work has been honored with many major awards. He has won a Primetime Emmy Award, two BAFTAs (for I, Claudius and The Gathering Storm), and a Tony Award nomination for his performance in The Suicide. For his services to drama, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1985 and was knighted in 1994. He holds several honorary doctorates from institutions including the University of Cambridge and the University of Bristol. In 2020, he was awarded the Laurence Olivier Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Category:English male stage actors Category:English male television actors Category:English male film actors Category:1938 births Category:Living people Category:Alumni of St John's College, Cambridge Category:Knights Bachelor