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Griffith Jones

Actor with Welsh parents

 
Born Harold Jones in London to a Welsh father, Griffith Jones (1909-2007) wasn't just charming on screen, he was a theatrical titan. Towering at 6'3", his presence commanded stages and captivated audiences for over six decades.

Before the war, Jones honed his craft at RADA, his debut as Achmed in "Carpet Slippers" a mere hint of the range to come. After serving in the army, he stormed the theater scene, effortlessly switching between Shakespearean greats like Hamlet's Ghost and Duncan in Macbeth, to modern gems like Chekhov's Chebutiken and the hilarious Fluggers in Nicholas Nickleby.

His love for Shakespeare didn't end on stage. With the Royal Shakespeare Company for over 20 years, he breathed life into characters like Antigonus in "The Winter's Tale" and Gower in "Pericles." His voice, rich and resonant, became a hallmark of the company's productions.

Connection: born in London to Welsh parents

But Griffith wasn't confined to the theater. He lit up the silver screen in films like "Miranda" and "Wife of General Ling," and graced our TVs in shows like "Upstairs, Downstairs." His versatility shone through, whether playing a dashing hero or a gruff sergeant.

Even in his twilight years, he lent his gravitas to productions like "The Ref" and "While You Were Sleeping," reminding us of the depth and warmth he brought to every role.

His booming voice fell silent in 2007, but his legacy as a versatile, commanding actor who graced stages and screens with equal mastery lives on. Griffith Jones: the name on the marquee that guaranteed a theatrical experience of the highest caliber.

Our sketch here can only just highlight his impressive stage presence, Shakespearean prowess, versatility, and lasting impact on the theater world.

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