Eric Porter

Biography

Eric Porter, a distinguished classical actor celebrated for his Shakespearean performances, enjoyed a remarkable career that spanned over five decades until his passing from colon cancer in 1995. While he earned immense respect within the theatrical community, it was his unforgettable role as Soames Forsyte in the 1967 miniseries "The Forsyte Saga" that catapulted him to international fame, earning him a BAFTA award for his poignant portrayal.

Born to Richard John Porter and Phoebe Elizabeth Spall, Porter began his theatrical journey in February 1945 as a walk-on in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" at the Arts Theatre in Cambridge. He honed his craft in repertory theater before serving in the RAF during World War II. Following the war, he toured with illustrious figures such as Sir Donald Wolfit and Sir Barry Jackson, further enriching his artistic experience.

Porter's repertoire included iconic roles in "Macbeth," "King Lear," and "Uncle Vanya," and he received the Evening Standard Award for his performance in "Rosmersholm" in 1959. Joining the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1960, he became a prominent figure in British theater. His film career began with "The Fall of the Roman Empire" in 1964, but it was his portrayal of Soames Forsyte that left a lasting impact, featuring groundbreaking themes. He also appeared in quality television adaptations, including "Anna Karenina," "The Jewel in the Crown," and "Oliver Twist," where he played Fagin, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to classic literature.