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Last updated on the 23 June 2025 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 1 June 1905, Shaftesbury, Dorset, England.
Robert Newton was an English actor whose dynamic performances and distinctive voice made him a memorable figure in both stage and screen. From his early life to his legendary portrayals, Newton’s talent and charisma left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
In his early years, Newton displayed a natural inclination towards performing arts and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. His dedication and talent led him to make his stage debut in 1926, captivating audiences with his magnetic presence.
Newton’s career highlights include a wide range of roles across various genres. One of his most iconic performances was as Long John Silver in the 1950 film adaptation of “Treasure Island”. His portrayal of the infamous pirate showcased his ability to bring complex characters to life, earning him critical acclaim and solidifying his place as a screen legend. Newton’s distinctive voice and striking demeanour added depth and authenticity to his characters, making them unforgettable.
Outside of his career, Newton led a colourful personal life. He was known for his love of sailing and adventure, embodying the spirit of the characters he portrayed. However, his personal life was not without its struggles. Newton battled with alcoholism, which affected his health and occasionally interrupted his career. Despite these challenges, he remained a dedicated performer, captivating audiences with his raw talent whenever he graced the stage or screen.
Tragically, Robert Newton’s life was cut short when he passed away on March 25, 1956, at the age of 50. However, his legacy lives on through his iconic performances, which continue to captivate audiences to this day. Robert Newton’s contributions to the world of acting remain an enduring testament to his talent and his ability to leave a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of those who witnessed his work.
Suggested viewing
Oliver Twist (1948)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8
“Oliver Twist” is a film adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel. It tells the story of Oliver, an orphan who escapes a workhouse and joins a gang of pickpockets led by the manipulative Fagin. Through his hardships and encounters with both good and evil, Oliver strives to find love, family and a better life.
Top cast: John Howard Davies, Robert Newton, Alec Guinness, Kay Walsh, Francis L. Sullivan, Henry Stephenson, Mary Clare, Ralph Truman.
More Dickens
This Happy Breed (1944)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.3
“This Happy Breed” is adapted from the play by Noël Coward. It follows the lives of the working-class Gibbons family from 1919 to 1939. The story explores their triumphs, struggles and generational clashes while reflecting the changes in British society between the two World Wars. It captures the essence of ordinary lives amidst historical events.
Top cast: Robert Newton, Celia Johnson, Stanley Holloway, John Mills, Alison Leggatt, Eileen Erskine, John Blythe, Kay Walsh.
Odd Man Out (1947)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6
Wounded during a botched robbery, a fugitive political leader wanders through the shadowy streets of Belfast, pursued by the law and haunted by guilt. As he seeks refuge, the city’s residents confront moral dilemmas, torn between compassion and fear, while his grasp on reality slowly fades in a swirl of desperation and illusion.
Top cast: James Mason, Robert Newton, Cyril Cusack, F.J. McCormick, William Hartnell, Fay Compton, Kathleen Ryan, Elwyn Brook-Jones.
Treasure Island (1950)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9
Jim Hawkins discovers a map leading to Captain Flint’s treasure. He embarks on a perilous voyage with Squire Trelawney and Doctor Livesey, but their crew includes the cunning Long John Silver and his pirate confederates, who plot to seize the riches for themselves. Mutiny erupts, and Jim finds himself in a desperate struggle for survival and the fabled gold.
Top cast: Bobby Driscoll, Robert Newton, Basil Sydney, Walter Fitzgerald, Denis O’Dea, Finlay Currie, Ralph Truman, Geoffrey Keen.
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