The Legendary Love Story of Laurence Olivier and Joan Plowright: A Union of Art and Devotion In a world where fame and fortune can sometimes come at the cost of genuine love, the marriage of Laurence Olivier and Joan Plowright stands as a beacon of hope. For nearly 20 years, the two Oscar-winning actors navigated the highs and lows of Hollywood together, their bond only growing stronger with each passing year. As the wife of the iconic ‘Hamlet’ actor, Laurence Olivier, Joan Plowright found herself at the epicenter of a life that was as grand as it was glamorous. But behind the spotlight, their relationship was a true masterpiece, woven from the threads of deep affection, mutual respect, and a shared passion for the arts. In this article, we’ll delve into the extraordinary marriage of Laurence Olivier and Joan Plowright, a love story that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Early Life and Education: The Making of a Theatrical Star
Joan Plowright’s childhood in Scunthorpe, her father’s passion for theatre, and her early interest in acting laid the foundation for her future success. Her father, William Ernest Plowright, was a journalist and newspaper editor who built a wooden playhouse for her, which he named “Bohemia.” This early exposure to the world of theatre sparked a fire in Plowright that would drive her to become one of the most respected actresses of her time.
From Scunthorpe to the Stage
Plowright’s early life was marked by her father’s influence and her own natural talent. She attended Scunthorpe Grammar School and later trained at the Bristol Old Vic, where she honed her craft and developed a passion for the art of acting. Her mother, Daisy Margaret, was a keen amateur actor who encouraged Plowright’s early interest in the theatre, despite her own reservations about the profession.
Training and Influence
Plowright’s study at the Bristol Old Vic was instrumental in shaping her approach to acting. The British theatre scene at the time emphasized talent over glamour, which suited Plowright’s down-to-earth personality and natural ability. Her training also instilled in her a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, qualities that would serve her well throughout her career.
Breaking into the Industry
Plowright’s stage debut marked the beginning of her professional journey. She made her debut in Croydon in 1948 and later joined the English Stage Company at the Royal Court Theatre, where she was cast in a number of productions, including The Country Wife and The Chairs. Her early roles showcased her versatility and talent, establishing her as a rising star in British theatre.
Meeting Laurence Olivier: A Match Made in Theatrical Heaven
Plowright’s co-starring role with Laurence Olivier in John Osborne’s The Entertainer in 1957 was a turning point in her career and marked the beginning of a romance that would last a lifetime. The mutual respect and admiration between Plowright and Olivier, despite their 22-year age difference and his status as a matinee idol, laid the groundwork for a successful partnership both on and off stage.
The Entertainer
The Entertainer was a critical and commercial success, and Plowright’s performance as Jean Rice earned her widespread recognition. Her chemistry with Olivier on stage was undeniable, and their romance soon blossomed off stage as well. The couple’s marriage in 1961, just a year after their on-stage reunion, was a testament to their enduring love and partnership.
A Match of Talent and Chemistry
The partnership between Plowright and Olivier was built on a foundation of mutual respect and admiration. Both were dedicated to their craft, and their passion for acting was matched only by their passion for each other. Their romance was not without its challenges, however, particularly given Olivier’s status as a married man and his 22-year age difference with Plowright.
A Love That Endured
Despite the challenges they faced, Plowright and Olivier’s love endured for over 28 years, until Olivier’s death in 1989. Their marriage was marked by a deep affection and respect for each other, and they remained devoted to each other until the end. Plowright’s memoirs, published in 2001, offer a poignant and intimate glimpse into their relationship, revealing the depth of their love and commitment to each other.
A Theatrical Career Spanning Six Decades
Plowright’s transition from theatre to film marked a new chapter in her career. Her early film roles, including Moby Dick (1956) and The Entertainer (1960), showcased her versatility and talent. Her numerous awards, including two Golden Globe Awards, an Olivier Award, and a Tony Award, recognized her excellence in both theatre and film.
From Stage to Screen
Plowright’s film career was marked by a series of critically acclaimed performances. Her roles in Uncle Vanya (1963), Enchanted April (1992), and Tea with Mussolini (1999) demonstrated her range and adaptability as an actress. She was BAFTA-nominated for her roles in The Entertainer (1960) and Equus (1977), and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture for Enchanted April.
Awards and Accolades
Plowright’s numerous awards and accolades are a testament to her enduring talent and dedication to her craft. She was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004, in recognition of her services to drama. Her Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for A Taste of Honey (1961) marked a highlight of her career, and her numerous Golden Globe nominations and wins solidified her status as a leading lady of stage and screen.
A Legacy of Versatility
Plowright’s body of work is a testament to her versatility and range as an actress. From her early days on stage to her later film roles, she consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of her characters and a commitment to excellence. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and actresses, and her contributions to the world of theatre and film remain unparalleled.
A Love That Lasted a Lifetime
Plowright’s memoirs, published in 2001, offer a poignant and intimate glimpse into her relationship with Olivier. The book is built like an intricate nest out of the letters that have lined her life, revealing the depth of their love and commitment to each other. Plowright’s laughter and sense of humor shine through in the book, as she recounts the ups and downs of their marriage and the challenges they faced.
The Power of Love
Plowright’s memoirs reveal the depth of her love for Olivier, which sustained her through the ups and downs of their marriage and helped her navigate the challenges of his demons. Her love for him was unwavering, and she remained devoted to him until the end. The book is a testament to the power of love and the enduring impact of a partnership built on talent, respect, and mutual admiration.
A Partnership Built on Respect
The couple’s enduring friendship and mutual respect, despite their differences, allowed them to create a strong and supportive partnership that lasted a lifetime. Plowright’s memoirs offer a glimpse into the private world of their marriage, revealing the intricacies of their relationship and the ways in which they supported each other.
A Legacy of Love
Plowright’s memoirs and her own story serve as a testament to the power of love and the enduring impact of a partnership built on talent, respect, and mutual admiration. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and actresses, and her contributions to the world of theatre and film remain unparalleled. As a tribute to her enduring love for Olivier, Plowright’s memoirs are a fitting epitaph to a life well-lived and a love that lasted a lifetime.
Conclusion
In our exploration of Joan Plowright’s husband, Laurence Olivier, and their enduring marriage, we delved into the intricacies of their relationship, which spanned over four decades. We examined the early days of their romance, marked by Olivier’s bold pursuit and Plowright’s eventual surrender to his charms. We also discussed their illustrious careers, with Olivier’s commanding stage presence and Plowright’s talented thespianism making them two of the most revered figures in British theatre. Furthermore, we highlighted the challenges they faced, including the scrutiny of the media and the pressures of living up to their individual and joint reputations.
The significance of their marriage lies in its demonstration of a long-lasting and loving partnership, one that transcended the glamour and glitz of Hollywood. Their union served as a beacon of hope for couples navigating the cutthroat world of show business, where relationships often falter under the weight of fame and fortune. Moreover, their commitment to one another serves as a testament to the power of true love and the importance of nurturing it over the years. As we reflect on their remarkable journey, we are reminded that even in the most high-profile of relationships, it is the everyday moments, the laughter, and the tears that truly make a marriage last.