Philip St. John Basil Rathbone was born in South Africa in
1892. Three years later Rathbone's family was forced to flee the
country and seek refuge in England.
In 1911, at the age of 19, Basil began his acting career
under the more simplified name Basil Rathbone. Basil's career
was briefly interrupted by the approach of World War One
however, where he would serve in the military as a second
lieutenant.
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In 1919 Basil Rathbone would begin his theater career as a member
of the Shakespearean troupe that appeared in Stratford Upon
Avon. Finally, in 1921, Basil made his way to America's Broadway,
finding immediate success. That same year Basil Rathbone would land
his first film role, the silent flick "The Innocent". He returned to Broadway in 1929. Basil co-wrote and starred
as the protagonist in the Broadway production, "Judas". |
In 1939, Basil Rathbone
would find his Most notable success as the infamous Sherlock Holmes, starring
alongside Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson in the "The Hound
of the Baskervilles". Rathbone would re-appear as the
beloved Sherlock Holmes in over 12 classic feature films.
Basil won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Dr. Swoper in
the Broadway play "The Heiress." in 1947.
Basil Rathbone’s other notable film credits include:
Basil Rathbone - MovieActors.com
