James Purefoy
James Purefoy: A Life of Versatility and Achievement
=====================================================
Full Name and Common Aliases
--------------------------------
James Brian Mark Stuart Purefoy is a British actor born on February 3, 1964, in Taunton, Somerset, England. He is often referred to by his full name or the shortened version, James Purefoy.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
February 3, 1964 - (still alive)
Nationality and Profession(s)
----------------------------------
British actor
With a career spanning over three decades, James Purefoy has established himself as one of the most versatile actors in the industry. He has appeared on stage, screen, and television, showcasing his range and talent.
Early Life and Background
-----------------------------
Purefoy was born to Richard Stileman Purefoy, an Olympic steeplechaser, and Julia Purefoy, a nurse and artist. His family moved to various locations in England during his childhood, including London and Oxfordshire. James's early interests lay in sports, particularly rowing, which he continued to enjoy throughout his life.
Purefoy attended Eton College, where he developed an appreciation for acting. He later studied at the University of Exeter before moving to London to pursue a career in the performing arts.
Major Accomplishments
---------------------------
James Purefoy's breakthrough role came with the 1994 film "Shooting Fish," which earned him critical acclaim and recognition within the industry. His subsequent performances in films like "A Knight's Tale" (2001), "Alexander" (2004), and "Ironclad" (2011) further solidified his reputation as a talented actor.
One of Purefoy's most notable roles to date is that of Mark Antony in the HBO series "Rome" (2005-2007). His portrayal earned him numerous award nominations, including an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Notable Works or Actions
------------------------------
Some of James Purefoy's most notable works include:
Stage productions: He has appeared in various stage productions throughout his career, including the 1996 play "Hamlet" at the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Television appearances: In addition to "Rome," Purefoy has had notable roles in series like "The Following" (2013-2015) and "The Durrells" (2016-2019).
Philanthropy: James Purefoy is involved with several charitable organizations, including the Prince's Trust, which supports disadvantaged young people.Impact and Legacy
-------------------------
James Purefoy's impact on the entertainment industry extends beyond his impressive filmography. He has inspired countless aspiring actors with his dedication to their craft and his ability to excel in a wide range of roles.
As an advocate for various charitable causes, Purefoy continues to make a positive impact on society through his work and philanthropic efforts.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
----------------------------------------------
James Purefoy's enduring popularity stems from his:
Versatility: He has successfully transitioned between film, television, and stage productions.
Range: His ability to portray complex characters in various genres has earned him widespread recognition.
Philanthropic efforts: His commitment to charitable causes has made a lasting impact on the lives of others.
With his dedication to his craft and his passion for giving back to society, James Purefoy will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most talented actors of our time.
Quotes by James Purefoy
James Purefoy's insights on:
Once you have kids, horror movies become too horrible to watch because you imagine your own children in those situations, so you stop watching them.
I am not a big fan of what I call 'ambient television,' which just washes through you in a very polite way. I like television that grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go.
All cult leaders are very good at supplying people with what they want and are missing in their lives, so they feel loved and that they belong.
I think, as an actor, I would find it a little run-of-the-mill doing procedurals where it's the same sort of thing week in and week out. Your character doesn't get to grow very much, which, purely from an actor's point of view, you want to see an arc of your character.
We shot the first season of 'Hap and Leonard' towards the end of the summer in Louisiana, in and around Baton Rouge. If anyone's been to Louisiana or comes from Louisiana, they know what the weather's like down there at that time of year: it's unbearably hot for an Englishman.
I ran into my old friend Michael Kenneth Williams, who I worked with on a show called 'The Philanthropist' for NBC. He was going to be doing this show called 'Hap and Leonard.' He was playing Leonard, and they were looking for somebody to play Hap.
I do know Joe Lansdale has the most extraordinary voice you've ever heard in your life in terms of an accent that, when I started doing it, they had to go, 'Whoa, we need less.' But that's how he talks.
You were always told that if you worked hard, you would get somewhere. But so many people feel they have worked hard and they have nothing to show for it.