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Last updated on the 29 September 2024 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 22 October 1938, Leytonstone, Essex, England.
Derek Jacobi’s early life was rooted in a working-class background, with his father, Alfred George Jacobi, managing a department store and his mother, Daisy Gertrude (Masters) Jacobi, working as a secretary. Despite the lack of a theatrical lineage, Jacobi’s interest in drama blossomed at a young age.
Derek Jacobi’s formative years were marked by his education at Leyton County High School for Boys, now known as Leyton Sixth Form College. It was here that he first developed a passion for acting, becoming an integral part of the school’s drama club, The Players of Leyton. His talent was evident early on, and he portrayed Hamlet at the English National Youth Theatre before even completing his high school education. This early exposure to Shakespearean roles would foreshadow his illustrious career in classical theatre.
After high school, Jacobi earned a scholarship to the University of Cambridge, where he initially pursued a degree in history. However, his passion for the stage soon took precedence, and he became heavily involved in the university’s dramatic society, the Marlowe Society. His performances at Cambridge were so impressive that they caught the attention of renowned actor and director, Sir Laurence Olivier, who invited Jacobi to join the newly formed National Theatre Company. This opportunity marked the beginning of Jacobi’s professional acting career and his lifelong association with Shakespearean theatre.
In terms of his personal life, Derek Jacobi has always been known for his private and reserved nature. Despite his commanding presence on stage and screen, he has maintained a shy and self-effacing demeanour offstage. Jacobi’s personal life took a significant turn when he met his partner, Richard Clifford, a fellow actor and director. The couple has been together for many years and entered into a civil partnership in March 2006.
Jacobi’s personal interests extend beyond the theatre. He is an avid reader and has a particular fondness for history, a subject he initially pursued academically. This interest in history is often reflected in his choice of roles, many of which are set in historical contexts or involve historical figures. Additionally, Jacobi is known for his love of travel, often taking trips with Clifford to explore new cultures and historical sites.
Throughout his life, Derek Jacobi has remained grounded and humble, despite his numerous accolades and achievements. His early life and education laid a solid foundation for his remarkable career, while his personal life has been characterised by enduring relationships and a deep appreciation for history and culture. Jacobi’s journey from a working-class background to becoming one of the most respected actors of his generation is a testament to his talent, dedication and passion for the arts.
WINNER | Television: Actor for I, Claudius (1977)
Suggested viewing
Last Tango in Halifax (2012)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4
Last Tango in Halifax is a heartwarming television series that follows two septuagenarians, Alan and Celia, who rediscover their love for each other after decades apart. Alan, a widower and Celia, a divorcee, meet again through a chance encounter and quickly realise their deep connection. As they grapple with the challenges of their age and the complexities of their families, they find solace and joy in their newfound love. The series explores themes of second chances, family dynamics and the enduring power of love.
The Old Curiosity Shop (2007)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.5
The story follows the life of Nell Trent, a virtuous young girl who lives with her grandfather in an antique shop in London. Despite being loved by her grandfather, Nell leads a lonely existence. Her only friend is Kit, a young boy who also resides in the shop. The story takes a dark turn as her grandfather turns to gambling in a desperate attempt to prevent Nell from dying in poverty.
Top cast: Sophie Vavasseur, Derek Jacobi, Toby Jones, Anna Madeley, Adam Godley, Gina McKee, Adrian Rawlins, Bryan Dick, Zoë Wanamaker, Martin Freeman, Steve Pemberton, George MacKay, Bradley Walsh, Charlene McKenna.
More Dickens
I, Claudius (1976)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.8
In ancient Rome, the timid Claudius narrates his dramatic journey from an outcast in the imperial family to becoming Emperor. Amidst a treacherous web of power struggles and familial betrayals, Claudius must avoid deadly conspiracies while preserving his own life and legacy in this riveting tale of political intrigue and survival.
Top cast: Derek Jacobi, Siân Phillips, Brian Blessed, George Baker, Margaret Tyzack, John Hurt, Patricia Quinn, Patrick Stewart.
More from Rome
Mr Pye (1986)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.8
In the picturesque village of Sark, a quirky and enigmatic man named Mr. Pye arrives with an unusual mission to spread joy among the locals. However, his unconventional methods and eccentric personality stir up unexpected challenges and transformations, leading to both humorous and heartwarming encounters in this delightful tale of self-discovery and community.
Top cast: Derek Jacobi, Judy Parfitt, Richard O’Callaghan, Robin McCaffrey, Ralph Nossek, Amanda Reiss.
Cadfael (1994)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1
“Cadfael” is a British television series based on a series of historical murder mystery novels by Ellis Peters. The series follows the adventures of Brother Cadfael, a Benedictine monk who uses his knowledge of herbs and his past as a soldier to solve crimes in medieval England. Each episode features a new mystery for Cadfael to solve, often involving political intrigue, forbidden love and religious conflict.
Top cast: Derek Jacobi, Michael Culver, Julian Firth, Terrence Hardiman, Mark Charnock, Albie Woodington, Sean Pertwee, Eoin McCarthy.
Another medieval “whodunnit”
Vicious (2013)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1
In the TV series “Vicious,” Freddie and Stuart, a long-term gay couple, navigate their eccentric and stormy relationship with their equally idiosyncratic friends. Through witty banter and sharp humour, they tackle love, aging and the ups and downs of their enduring bond, all while embracing their wonderfully flawed and lovable selves.
Top cast: Ian McKellen, Derek Jacobi, Frances de la Tour, Iwan Rheon, Marcia Warren, Philip Voss.
CLIP