About Richard Harris
Richard St. John Harris, also popularly known as Richard Harris, was award wining Irish actor, singer and songwriter who crafted his name in all the fields of his activities. Born on October 1, 1930, Richard Harris gifted a series of popular films to the film lovers of the whole world. Though, was brilliant in acting and was thoroughly professional, Richard Harris was also an iconic drinker in the field of film acting. He was known for his drinking habits which also affected his career as well. A famous and very popular actor in his times, Richard Harris is best known for his roles like King Arthur in Camelot (1967), and Oliver Cromwell in Cromwell (1970). People will also remember his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), which, eventually, was his last film.
The Early Days
Richard Harris was the fifth of the eight children of Ivan and Mildred Harris. A student of Crescent College, Richard Harris was a talented rugby player from his childhood days. He participated in various Munster Junior and Senior Cup teams for his school. Also represented very well-known Garryowen Football Club. Richard Harris may have crafted his career in rugby, but he contracted tuberculosis during his teens and had to quit rugby. After recovery, he had to shift his career plan. He wanted to become a director. He went to London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) to learn acting. While he was there, Richard Harris rented tiny “off-West End” Irving Theater and started directing his own production of the Clifford Odets play Winter Journey. Though the show had a critical success, but Harris fell into financial crisis and lost all his savings. Once his study was over, Richard Harris joined Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop.
The Career
Richard Harris made his debut in the film Alive and Kicking in 1958. Later on, he also acted in various films like The Guns of Navarone, Mutiny on the Bounty, etc. The got his first big break in 1963 through his film This Sporting Life where he played the role of a bitter young coal miner. He won the award of best actor at the Cannes Film Festival for his performance in this film. Richard Harris also acted in several films like Major Dundee (1965), Camelot and many more.
Though was a successful and popular actor, Richard Harris was very much addicted to alcohol which made a bad impact in his career. It hampered her performance and he was quite known for his drinking habits. Richard Harris finally died on October 25, 2002 at the age of 72 at London, England.
For more information on Actors, Musicians and Other Performers who were Iconic Drinkers, please go through the site www.alchoholabusehub.com.
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