Dalton first gained international recognition in the award winning film, The Lion In Winter, in which he portrayed the young Phillip the Second of France.
His first love was the theatre and, after attending the Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art, he spent a period in repertory. Following that, his commanding presence combined with his fine acting ability quickly established his reputation as a Shakespearian actor of note while starring with the Royal Shakespear Company. Dalton's early film career included starring parts in Wuthering Heights, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Cromwell. He also starred with Dustin Hoffman and Vanessa Redgrave in Agatha. More recently he starred in The Doctor And The Devils and Hawk. His TV successes have included such diverse subjects as Jane Eyre, Sins, and Mistral's Daughter.
His most recent stage acclaim was for his performance opposite Vanessa Redgrave in A Touch Of The Poet.