For many years associated with the Old Vic theatre, he was director of the National Theatre company 1962-73. His stage roles include Henry V, Hamlet, Richard III, and Archie Rice in John Osborne's The Entertainer 1957 (filmed 1960). His acting and direction of filmed versions of Shakespeare's plays received critical acclaim for example, Henry V 1944 and Hamlet 1948 (Academy Award). Knighted 1947, Baron 1970. Olivier appeared on screen in many films, including Wuthering Heights 1939, Rebecca 1940, Sleuth 1972, Marathon Man 1976, and The Boys from Brazil 1978. The Olivier Theatre (part of the National Theatre on the South Bank, London) is named after him. He was married to Vivien Leigh 1940-60, and to Joan Plowright from 1961 until his death.
