Olivier

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Olivier is a biography of the twentieth-century greatest actor, who struggled with the dark side of his genius and was plagued by guilt and betrayal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 624 pages
Publication date: 28 May 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Olivier is an extraordinary portrayal of the twentieth century's most renowned actor. His journey was a remarkable tale, beginning with his ascent to fame as a Shakespearean actor at the Old Vic and culminating in his successful transition to Hollywood. However, alongside his extraordinary talent, Olivier grappled with the darker aspects of his genius. He abandoned his first wife and married Vivien Leigh, a manic depressive who exerted a profound influence over his life for twenty years. Despite his eventual separation from her, he was plagued by a profound sense of guilt that he believed could only be assuaged through relentless work. In his later years, Olivier found solace in marriage to Joan Plowright and the birth of a new family. He also assumed the role of founding director of the National Theatre, a position he held with great dedication. Nevertheless, even within the NT, Olivier felt a sense of betrayal, perhaps due to the challenges and complexities that came with the role.

Drawing upon his unparalleled access to Olivier's personal papers, love letters, and diaries, Terry Coleman has crafted a landmark biography that delves deep into the life and legacy of this iconic figure. The book offers a comprehensive and intimate exploration of Olivier's triumphs, struggles, and profound emotional journey, providing a fresh perspective on one of the greatest actors of all time.

Weight: 998g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 54 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526626752