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Last updated on the 3 June 2024 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Basil Rathbone was destined to become one of the most iconic actors of his time. He was the son of Edgar Philip Rathbone, a mining engineer, and Anna Barbara, a violinist. At the age of three, Basil and his family relocated to England, where he would spend the majority of his formative years.
Rathbone received his education at Repton School, a prestigious boarding school in Derbyshire. During his time there, he developed a passion for the arts, particularly theatre and music. His talent for acting became evident early on, and he began performing in school productions, showcasing his budding skills and captivating audiences with his stage presence.
Following his graduation from Repton School, Rathbone made his professional stage debut in 1911 at the Theatre Royal, Ipswich. He then joined the Liverpool Repertory Theatre, this marked the beginning of an illustrious acting career that would span over five decades.
Rathbone’s breakthrough came in the 1920s when he joined the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. He soon made his way to the West End, captivating audiences with his performances in plays such as “The Last of Mrs. Cheyney” and “The Captive.”
In the 1930s, Rathbone ventured into Hollywood, where he found success in both film and theatre. He became known for his suave and sophisticated demeanor, often portraying villains in films such as “The Adventures of Robin Hood” and “The Mark of Zorro.”
However, his most iconic role came in 1939 when he was cast as Sherlock Holmes in “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Rathbone’s portrayal of the legendary detective would forever be etched in cinematic history.
While Rathbone’s professional life was flourishing, his personal life also had its share of ups and downs. He married his first wife, Marion Foreman, in 1914, and they had a son named Rodion. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1926. Rathbone later married Ouida Bergère in 1926, with whom he had a daughter named Cynthia. The couple remained together until Rathbone’s death.
Outside of acting, Basil Rathbone had a passion for fencing and became an accomplished swordsman. He even showcased his skills in films, adding an extra layer of authenticity to his action sequences. Rathbone was also an avid supporter of the Allied forces during World War II, participating in numerous war bond drives and entertaining troops.
On July 21, 1967, at the age of 75, Basil Rathbone sadly passed away due to a heart attack. Although he left this world, his legacy lives on through his extensive body of work and his unforgettable portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.
Suggested viewing
The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4
“The Hound of the Baskervilles” follows Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate the curse of the Baskerville family, which involves a monstrous hound haunting the moors of Dartmoor. They uncover a web of deception and solve the mystery, ultimately revealing the truth behind the supernatural occurrences. Rathbone’s performance as Holmes brings the iconic detective to life in this thrilling adaptation.
Top cast: Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Richard Greene, Wendy Barrie, Lionel Atwill, John Carradine, Barlowe Borland, Beryl Mercer.
Victoria Regina (1961)
Bftv ? / IMDb 8.9
“Victoria Regina” is based on the play written by Laurence Housman that premiered in 1934. It depicts the life of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne as a young woman to her reign as the powerful and influential monarch of the British Empire. The play explores Victoria’s personal life, her relationships with her family and the challenges she faced during her reign. It provides a captivating glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic figures in British history.
Top cast: Helen Hayes, Vincent Price, Basil Rathbone, Morris Carnovsky, Alan Webb, Philip Tonge, Henry Stephenson, Alan Napier.
Sherlock Holmes Faces Death (1943)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9
Holmes is called to investigate strange occurrences at a country manor being used as a psychiatric hospital during World War II. As he unravels a web of deception and murder, Holmes must navigate a complex case filled with danger and intrigue. With his sharp intellect and deductive skills, he ultimately solves the mystery and brings the culprits to justice. The film showcases Rathbone’s captivating portrayal of Holmes in a thrilling and suspenseful story.
Top cast: Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Hillary Brooke, Milburn Stone, Arthur Margetson, Halliwell Hobbes, Gavin Muir, Gerald Hamer.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (1939)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.3
The story follows Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate a series of baffling crimes, including stolen jewels, a missing bride, and a dangerous secret society. With wit, intellect, and keen observation, Holmes unravels the mysteries and brings the culprits to justice. The film showcases Rathbone’s brilliant portrayal of Holmes and his dynamic partnership with Watson, delivering thrilling suspense and classic detective storytelling.
Top cast: Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Ida Lupino, George Zucco, Alan Marshal, Terry Kilburn, Henry Stephenson, E.E. Clive.
