Christopher Lee
- Born:
- May 27, 1922, Belgravia, London, England
- Died:
- June 7, 2015, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Singer, Author
Early Life and Education
- Born Christopher Frank Carandini Lee to Lieutenant-Colonel Geoffrey Trollope Lee and Contessa Estelle Marie Carandini di Sarzano.
- Educated at Summer Fields School, Haileybury College, and Wellington College.
- Served in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during World War II, though details of his service were kept confidential.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his acting career in 1947.
- Gained international recognition for his portrayal of Count Dracula in a series of Hammer Horror films starting in 1958.
- Portrayed numerous iconic villains throughout his career, including Frankenstein's monster, Fu Manchu, and Saruman in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
- Appeared in over 200 films, making him one of the most prolific actors in history.
- Known for his deep, resonant voice and imposing stature.
- Later in his career, he became involved in heavy metal music, releasing several albums.
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Notable Works
Filmography (Selection)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1957 | The Curse of Frankenstein | The Creature |
| 1958 | Dracula | Count Dracula |
| 1973 | The Wicker Man | Lord Summerisle |
| 1974 | The Man with the Golden Gun | Francisco Scaramanga |
| 2001 | The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring | Saruman |
| 2005 | Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Dr. Wilbur Wonka |
Discography (Selection)
- Christopher Lee Sings Devils, Rogues & Other Villains (1998)
- Charlemagne: By the Sword and the Cross (2010)
- Charlemagne: The Omens of Death (2013)
Legacy and Impact
Christopher Lee's extensive filmography and memorable performances, particularly in horror and fantasy genres, have cemented his place as a cinematic icon. His longevity and diverse roles established him as a respected and admired figure in the entertainment industry.