Alan Howard (actor)

Alan Howard (5 August 1937 – 14 February 1992) was a British actor, renowned for his stage work, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Born in London, he was educated at Ardingly College and the University of Cape Town.

Howard joined the RSC in 1966 and remained a central figure for over two decades, becoming celebrated for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and versatility in a wide range of roles. His interpretations of Shakespearean characters, such as Henry V, Coriolanus, Hamlet, and Richard III, were highly acclaimed. He was also known for his performances in classic and contemporary plays by playwrights like Ibsen, Chekhov, and Pinter.

Beyond Shakespeare, notable roles included Vershinin in Chekhov’s Three Sisters, Alceste in Molière’s The Misanthrope, and Thomas Becket in T.S. Eliot's Murder in the Cathedral.

Howard's work was recognized with numerous awards, including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Revival for Coriolanus in 1984.

While primarily a stage actor, Howard also made appearances in film and television, though these were less frequent. His screen credits include roles in The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989) and Henry IV, Part 1 (1979).

Alan Howard was married to actress Stephanie Bidmead. He died of pneumonia in 1992, leaving behind a significant legacy in British theatre.