Richard Burton (1925-1984) was a Welsh actor known for his commanding stage and screen presence. Renowned for his deep, resonant voice and intense performances, Burton earned acclaim for roles in films such as “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and “Cleopatra.” His talent extended to the theater, where he received multiple Tony Awards. Additionally, Burton’s tumultuous romance and marriages to actress Elizabeth Taylor added to his fame and intrigue.
Burton’s early life was marked by humble beginnings in a working-class mining family. The twelfth of thirteen children, he grew up in the small village of Pontrhydyfen in South Wales. Raised by his sister Cecilia and her husband, Philip, after the death of his mother, Burton’s childhood was shaped by the stark contrasts of coal mining life and his burgeoning passion for literature and the arts.
From an early age, Burton exhibited a keen intellect and a love for learning. He was awarded a scholarship to Port Talbot Secondary School, where he excelled academically. His talents extended beyond the classroom, as he demonstrated an early interest in acting, participating in school plays and local performances. It was during these formative years that Burton’s fascination with the power of language and storytelling began to emerge.
At the age of 16, Burton left school and began working at a local coal mine. The prospect of a life spent in the mines seemed inevitable, but fate had other plans for the young Welshman. A chance encounter with teacher and director Philip Burton, who noticed the depth of Richard’s intellect and potential, changed the course of his life. Recognizing his talent, Philip became a mentor to Richard, fostering his love for literature and the arts.
Philip Burton’s influence proved transformative for the aspiring actor. He not only recognized Richard’s potential but also became a father figure and lifelong mentor. Under Philip’s guidance, Richard adopted the stage name “Richard Burton” and embarked on a journey that would take him from the coal mines of Wales to the global stages of the world.
In 1943, Richard Burton made his professional stage debut with the Liverpool Repertory Theatre. His early performances showcased a raw talent and an undeniable stage presence that caught the attention of audiences and critics alike. Burton’s eloquence and powerful delivery set him apart, providing a glimpse of the brilliance that would define his future career.
Burton’s career gained momentum, and he soon found success in London’s West End. His breakthrough came with a role in Christopher Fry’s play “The Druid’s Rest” in 1947. The production marked the beginning of Burton’s reputation as a formidable stage actor. His remarkable voice, often described as one of the most commanding in the English language, became a defining characteristic of his performances.
In 1951, Burton made his Broadway debut in “The Lady’s Not for Burning,” solidifying his status as an international stage star. His magnetic stage presence and ability to convey the complexities of characters captivated audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The acclaim garnered by his stage performances laid the foundation for a prolific and enduring career in theater.
While Burton’s success on the stage was undeniable, his foray into Hollywood in the 1950s marked the beginning of his illustrious film career. In 1952, he starred in the film “My Cousin Rachel,” earning his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This marked the commencement of Burton’s dual presence in both film and theater, a balance he would maintain throughout his career.
Burton’s rise to international fame was further solidified with his portrayal of King Arthur in the Broadway production of “Camelot” in 1960. The musical, co-starring Julie Andrews and Robert Goulet, became a cultural phenomenon and showcased Burton’s versatility as a performer. His rendition of the iconic song “If Ever I Would Leave You” remains a memorable highlight of the production.
The 1960s marked a period of unprecedented success for Burton, both on and off the stage. His film career reached new heights with roles in critically acclaimed movies such as “The Longest Day” (1962), “Cleopatra” (1963), and “Becket” (1964). The latter, in which he starred alongside Peter O’Toole, earned Burton his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
In 1965, Burton starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor in the film adaptation of Edward Albee’s play “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Directed by Mike Nichols, the film delved into the tumultuous marriage of George and Martha, played by Burton and Taylor. The intense and emotionally charged performances of the lead actors earned them widespread acclaim and established “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” as a cinematic masterpiece.
Burton’s portrayal of George in the film not only earned him his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor but also marked a pinnacle in his career. The role showcased his ability to navigate complex characters and elicited empathy from audiences despite the character’s flaws. The film remains a testament to Burton’s extraordinary talent and his on-screen chemistry with Elizabeth Taylor.
The personal and professional partnership between Burton and Taylor became a defining aspect of their public personas. The couple, often referred to as “Liz and Dick,” captivated the public’s imagination with their glamorous lifestyle, high-profile romance, and multiple marriages and divorces. The media frenzy surrounding their relationship added a layer of complexity to Burton’s public image, but it never overshadowed his status as a consummate actor.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Burton continued to deliver powerful performances on both stage and screen. His work in films such as “The Taming of the Shrew” (1967), opposite Elizabeth Taylor, and “Anne of the Thousand Days” (1969), in which he portrayed King Henry VIII, demonstrated his versatility in historical dramas. Burton’s ability to portray characters with depth and nuance further solidified his reputation as a masterful actor.
In addition to his achievements in film and theater, Burton continued to explore the world of literature. His eloquent and insightful readings of classic works on the spoken-word album “The Richard Burton Collection” showcased his love for language and storytelling. His distinctive voice, often likened to a Shakespearean actor, lent itself perfectly to the medium, adding another dimension to his artistic legacy.
Burton’s continued success on stage earned him numerous accolades, including Tony Award nominations for his performances in plays such as “Hamlet” (1964) and “Equus” (1977). His commanding stage presence, coupled with an unmatched ability to bring characters to life, made him a revered figure in the world of theater.
Despite his accomplishments, Burton’s personal life remained a subject of intense public interest. His passionate and tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth Taylor, marked by their lavish lifestyle and headline-grabbing antics, was a constant topic in the media. The couple’s turbulent love affair, punctuated by multiple marriages and divorces, became a symbol of Hollywood excess.
While Burton’s personal life often drew attention away from his artistic achievements, it never overshadowed his commitment to his craft. He continued to take on challenging roles in both film and theater, earning critical acclaim for his performances. His willingness to delve into the complexities of characters and explore the human condition showcased a deep dedication to his art.
As the 1980s unfolded, Burton faced health challenges that impacted his ability to maintain the same level of prolificacy in his career. Nevertheless, he continued to act in films such as “The Wild Geese” (1978) and “1984” (1984), demonstrating his enduring commitment to his craft. His collaboration with fellow Welsh actor Anthony Hopkins in the film “The Elephant Man” (1980) further exemplified his ability to contribute to impactful and emotionally resonant projects.
Richard Burton’s final years were marked by declining health, and he faced the inevitable challenges that come with aging. He passed away on August 5, 1984, at the age of 58. Burton’s death marked the end of an era, and the entertainment industry mourned the loss of a legendary actor whose contributions had left an indelible mark on stage and screen.
