Ten fun facts about Timothy Dalton

1. Iconic Actor and Bond Legend

Timothy Dalton is an iconic actor, best known for his portrayal of James Bond in The Living Daylights (1987) and Licence to Kill (1989). He also played the iconic role of Rhett Butler in the television miniseries Scarlett (1994), an original sequel to the classic Gone with the Wind. Dalton's performances in these roles have cemented his place in cinematic history, and his legacy will live on for generations to come.

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2. Timothy Dalton's most successful film is The Tourist

Timothy Dalton's most successful film to date is The Tourist, which has grossed an impressive US$278 million worldwide. This box office success has made it one of the highest-grossing films of 2010, and has cemented Dalton's place as one of the most successful actors of his generation.

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3. A Teenager's Path to Acting Success

As a teenager, Timothy Dalton was an active member of the Air Training Corps, a youth organization that provides aviation-related activities for young people. During his time in the ATC, Dalton was able to gain valuable experience in aviation, including flying lessons, aircraft maintenance, and navigation. He also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of other activities, such as camping, orienteering, and field trips. Dalton's involvement in the ATC helped to shape his future career as an actor, as it gave him the confidence and skills to pursue his dreams.

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4. 16-Year-Old Timothy Dalton Becomes an Actor

At the tender age of 16, Timothy Dalton was inspired to pursue a career in acting after witnessing a production of Macbeth at The Old Vic. His passion for the craft was so strong that he was soon cast in a production of the same play at the same venue. This was the start of a long and successful career for Dalton, who went on to become one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

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5. From Lion in Winter to Bond

Timothy Dalton made his film debut in 1968, playing the role of Philip II of France in the classic historical drama The Lion in Winter. Directed by Anthony Harvey, the film starred Peter O'Toole and Katharine Hepburn and was nominated for three Academy Awards. Dalton's performance as the ambitious and scheming French king was praised by critics, and marked the beginning of a successful career in film and television.

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6. Timothy Dalton's Career in Acting

Timothy Dalton's career as an actor began in the theatre, where he performed in two notable productions, Mary, Queen of Scots (1971) and Permission to Kill (1975). After these two exceptions, he stayed in the theatre until 1978, when he made his big-screen debut in the film The Lion in Winter.

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7. Timothy Dalton Cast as James Bond

Timothy Dalton had been a serious contender for the iconic role of James Bond multiple times throughout his career. His name had been thrown around for the part since the late 1970s, and he was even offered the role in 1986, but he declined due to scheduling conflicts. Finally, in 1987, Dalton was officially cast as the fourth actor to portray the legendary British spy.

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8. A Bond Legacy

Timothy Dalton's portrayal of James Bond was a dramatic departure from the lighthearted, suave character that had been seen in previous films. Dalton's Bond was a darker, more serious character, with a greater emphasis on realism and a more human side to the iconic spy. Dalton's Bond was a man of action, but also a man of thought, with a greater focus on the psychological aspects of the character. His portrayal of Bond was a refreshing change from the more cartoonish Bond of the past, and was a major influence on the Bond films that followed.

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9. From Schoolboy Actor to Legendary Star

In 1964, Timothy Dalton left school to pursue his passion for acting, enrolling in the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and touring with the National Youth Theatre. His commitment to the craft was evident from an early age, and his hard work paid off as he went on to become one of the most renowned actors of his generation.

10. From RADA to the Birmingham Repertory Theatre

In 1966, Timothy Dalton left the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) to join the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, an ensemble of professional actors. Dalton had been studying at RADA for two years, but decided to pursue a career in theatre instead. He was eager to gain experience in the industry and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre provided him with the perfect opportunity to do so. Dalton's time at the theatre was a great success and he went on to have a long and successful career in the entertainment industry.