Ralph Fiennes: A Distinguished Actor with a Versatile Career

Early Life and Training

Ralph Fiennes was born on December 22, 1962, in Suffolk, England. He is the son of Mark Fiennes, a photographer, and Jennifer Lash, a novelist. Fiennes attended the King's College School in Cambridge, where he developed an interest in drama. He later studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

Breakthrough Roles

Fiennes made his film debut in 1992's "Wuthering Heights." His breakthrough performance came in 1993's "Schindler's List," in which he played the role of Amon Göth, the commandant of the Plaszów concentration camp. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Shakespearean and Historical Roles

Fiennes has also established himself as a leading interpreter of Shakespearean and historical roles. He has played Hamlet, Coriolanus, and Richard II on stage and screen. His historical roles include Robert Dudley in "Elizabeth" (1998) and Marc Antony in "Antony and Cleopatra" (2011).

Contemporary Films and Villainous Characters

Fiennes has also appeared in a variety of contemporary films, including "The Grand Budapest Hotel" (2014), "Spectre" (2015), and "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" (2017). He has often portrayed villainous characters, such as Lord Voldemort in the "Harry Potter" series and M in the James Bond films.

Awards and Recognition

Fiennes has won numerous awards for his work, including a Tony Award, three BAFTA Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017 for his services to drama.

Personal Life

Fiennes is married to Francesca Annis, an English actress. They have two children, a daughter named Mercy and a son named Michael.

Ralph Fiennes