Roger Rees

Biography

Roger Rees (May 5, 1944 – July 10, 2015) was a distinguished Welsh-American actor and director whose career spanned stage and screen. Born in Aberystwyth, Wales, and raised in south London, Rees initially pursued a career in visual arts, studying at Camberwell College of Arts and the Slade School of Fine Art. However, he soon found his passion in theater, starting his journey by painting sets at the Wimbledon Theatre before stepping into acting in 1965.

Rees garnered significant acclaim for his theatrical performances, most notably in the Royal Shakespeare Company's adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Nicholas Nickleby," which earned him both an Olivier Award and a Tony Award. His talent was further recognized with Obie Awards for his performance in "The End of the Day" and for co-directing "Peter and the Starcatcher."

On television, he gained popularity as Robin Colcord, a driven financier, in the beloved sitcom "Cheers" during the 1989-90 season. His other television credits included the sci-fi series "M.A.N.T.I.S."

In 1989, Rees became a U.S. citizen and married his long-time collaborator Rick Elice in 2011. Tragically, Rees was diagnosed with cancer while performing in Broadway's "The Visit," starring Chita Rivera, and had to leave the show in May 2015. He passed away on July 10, 2015, leaving a profound impact on the world of theater and a rich legacy behind.