Last updated on the 26 June 2024 by Evandrus

Mini Biography

Born: 14 September 1910, Wood Green, Middlesex, England. 

After completing his primary education, Jack Hawkins attended St Paul’s School in London where he excelled both academically and artistically. It was during this time that his love for acting truly blossomed.

Hawkins began his professional acting career in the late 1920s on the British stage before making his film debut in “The Lodger” (1932). However, it wasn’t until the early 1940s that he achieved widespread recognition.

One of Hawkins’ most significant breakthrough roles came when he portrayed Lieutenant Colonel John Howard in “The Cruel Sea” (1953), a gripping World War II drama which earned him critical acclaim and established him as a leading actor.

He further solidified his reputation with exceptional performances in iconic films such as “The Bridge on the River Kwai” (1957), where he played Major Warden alongside Alec Guinness; “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962) as General Allenby; and “Zulu” (1964) as Reverend Otto Witt. These roles showcased Hawkins’ versatility by displaying his ability to portray characters ranging from military officers to religious figures with depth and authenticity.

Throughout his career spanning over four decades, Jack Hawkins worked extensively across theatre, television, radio dramas, and feature films. His talent garnered numerous accolades including BAFTA nominations for Best British Actor multiple times.

Sadly, towards the end of the 1960s decade, Hawkins faced health challenges due to throat cancer which led to complications with his voice box. Despite undergoing several surgeries that affected his vocal cords permanently resulting in loss of his distinct voice, Hawkins continued to act in films and television until his retirement.

He passed away on July 18, 1973, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain’s most respected actors. Jack Hawkins’ contributions to cinema and the performing arts continue to inspire generations of actors and film enthusiasts worldwide.

Suggested viewing

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1

“The Bridge on the River Kwai” is a World War II film set in 1943. It depicts the story of British prisoners of war who are forced by their Japanese captors to build a bridge over the River Kwai in Thailand. The film explores themes of honour, duty and morality as tensions rise between the prisoners and their captors.

Top cast: William Holden, Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Sessue Hayakawa, James Donald, Geoffrey Horne, André Morell.

The League of Gentlemen (1960)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2

“The League of Gentlemen” is a British heist film directed by Basil Dearden. The story follows a group of disgruntled ex-army officers who plan and execute an audacious bank robbery in London. Filled with twists and turns, the film explores themes of betrayal, loyalty and redemption as their daring plan unfolds.

Top cast: Jack Hawkins, Nigel Patrick, Roger Livesey, Richard Attenborough, Bryan Forbes, Kieron Moore, Terence Alexander, Norman Bird.

Gideon’s Day (1958)

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.6

“Gideon’s Day” is a crime drama based on the novel by John Creasey. Set in London, it follows the eventful 24 hours in the life of Chief Inspector George Gideon. Juggling multiple cases and personal challenges, Gideon must grapple with murder investigations, family dramas and inner struggles to maintain order and justice in the bustling city of London.

Top cast: Jack Hawkins, Anna Lee, Anna Massey, Andrew Ray, John Loder, Dianne Foster, Cyril Cusack, Howard Marion-Crawford.

Land of the Pharaohs (1955)

Bftv 8.0  / IMDb 6.6

“Land of the Pharaohs” is a historical drama set in ancient Egypt. It explores the ambition and greed of Pharaoh Khufu as he builds his grand pyramid tomb. Amidst political intrigue, treachery and forbidden love, Khufu’s obsession with immortality threatens to consume him and his empire in this epic tale of power and sacrifice.

Top cast: Jack Hawkins, Joan Collins, Dewey Martin, Alexis Minotis, James Robertson Justice, Luisella Boni, Sydney Chaplin, Kerima.

The Two-Headed Spy (1958)

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.9

“The Two-Headed Spy” is a World War II espionage thriller. It follows the life of Alex Granville, a British intelligence officer who becomes a double agent for Germany. With his unique ability to deceive both sides, he risks everything as he navigates treacherous alliances and dangerous missions in this high-stakes game of deception.

Top cast: Jack Hawkins, Gia Scala, Erik Schumann, Alexander Knox, Felix Aylmer, Walter Gotell, Geoffrey Keen, Howard Marion-Crawford.

The Cruel Sea (1953)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.4

“The Cruel Sea” is based on the story written by Nicholas Monsarrat. Set during World War II, it follows the arduous journey of the British Royal Navy officers and crew aboard HMS Compass Rose, who face relentless battles against German U-boats in the treacherous Atlantic Ocean while making personal sacrifices and facing moral dilemmas.

Top cast: Jack Hawkins, Donald Sinden, Denholm Elliott, Stanley Baker, John Stratton, Bruce Seton, Virginia McKenna, Moira Lister.

Jack Hawkins full filmography @ Wikipedia