Richard Armitage is a name that resonates with fans of film, television, and theater alike.
Known for his captivating performances and commanding presence, Armitage has carved out a unique niche in the entertainment industry.
From his breakout role as John Thornton in the beloved BBC adaptation of North & South to his iconic portrayal of Thorin Oakenshield in The Hobbit trilogy, he has consistently impressed audiences with his versatility and depth.
In this article, we delve into some fascinating facts about Armitage, exploring his journey, influences, and the lesser-known elements that make him a compelling figure in the world of acting.
How did Richard Armitage become popular?
Armitage rose to popularity through a series of key performances in television and film.
His breakthrough came in 2004 with the role of John Thornton in the BBC adaptation of North & South, which garnered significant acclaim and established him as a leading man, likened to Colin Firth’s iconic portrayal of Mr. Darcy.
Following this, he captivated audiences as Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood and Lucas North in Spooks, further solidifying his reputation.
His international fame peaked with his portrayal of Thorin Oakenshield in The Hobbit trilogy, making him a household name globally.
Facts about Richard Armitage
1. Armitage was born on August 22, 1971, in Leicester, England.
2. He was named after King Richard III, as he shares a birthday with the king’s death anniversary.
3. At age 17, he joined a circus in Budapest for six weeks to earn his Equity card.
4. He plays multiple musical instruments, including the cello, guitar, and flute.
5. Armitage suffers from aquaphobia due to a childhood incident involving a pond.
6. He was the youngest actor to audition for the role of Thorin Oakenshield in The Hobbit.
7. His breakout role was as John Thornton in the BBC series North & South.
8. He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company at age 28 for 18 months.
9. Armitage won a Saturn Award for his portrayal of Francis Dolarhyde in Hannibal.
10. He was considered for the role of Pennywise in the 2017 film It.
11. Armitage has a powerful baritone voice, which he has used in voice acting since 2006.
12. He was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actor for his role in The Crucible.
13. His parents are John (an engineer) and Margaret (a secretary).
14. He has worked various jobs, including packing boxes and working in a theater.
15. Armitage starred as Guy of Gisborne in the BBC series Robin Hood.
16. He played John Porter in the action series Strike Back.
17. His role as Thorin Oakenshield brought him international fame and recognition.
18. He voiced Trevor Belmont in Netflix’s animated series Castlevania.
19. Armitage reprised his role as Harry Kennedy in The Vicar of Dibley Christmas special.
20. He was considered for Bruce Wayne/Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
21. Armitage enjoys painting and has always been creative since childhood.
22. He initially sought theater work but shifted to film and television roles for better opportunities.
23. His character John Thornton was inspired by his family’s weaving background.
24. He has taken aqua aerobics classes to confront his fear of water for various roles.
25. Armitage’s striking looks and presence have often led him to play dark and complex characters.
26. He returned to stage acting after gaining name recognition from television and film roles.
27. His diverse career includes both serious drama and comedic performances.
Conclusion
Armitage’s journey from a young aspiring actor to an internationally recognized star is a testament to his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft.
With a career spanning theater, television, and film, he has captivated audiences with his compelling performances and rich character portrayals.
Whether he’s playing a heroic leader in a fantasy epic or a complex character in a gripping drama, Armitage continues to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
As he explores new roles and creative ventures, fans can look forward to witnessing the evolution of this remarkable actor for years to come.
