Ronald Pickup

Biography

Ronald Alfred Pickup was born on June 7, 1940, in Chester, Cheshire, England. His father, Eric Pickup, was a lecturer, and his mother, Daisy Williams, worked as a secretary. From an early age, Ronald showed an interest in performing arts and literature. He attended The King’s School in Chester before pursuing higher studies at the University of Leeds, where he studied English. He later trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, graduating in 1964 and laying the foundation for a distinguished acting career.

Career Beginnings
Pickup began his professional career on stage, joining the Royal National Theatre under the direction of Laurence Olivier. His classical training and commanding presence made him a natural fit for Shakespearean roles. He performed in numerous stage productions, including Othello, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, and The Cherry Orchard, earning respect as one of Britain’s most skilled theatre actors.

Transition to Television and Film
Ronald Pickup’s television debut came in 1964 with an episode of Doctor Who titled “The Tyrant of France.” Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he became a familiar face on British television, appearing in series such as The Forsyte Saga, The Adventures of Don Quixote, and The Day of the Jackal. His ability to bring depth and subtlety to his performances made him a popular choice for historical and dramatic roles.

Notable Film and TV Roles
Pickup’s film career spanned over five decades, and he appeared in many acclaimed productions across genres. Some of his notable works include:

The Day of the Jackal (1973)

The Mission (1986)

A Time to Dance (1992)

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)

The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015)

The Crown (2016–2017), where he portrays the Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher

Darkest Hour (2017), as Neville Chamberlain

He also appeared in Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010) and The Time of Their Lives (2017), showcasing his versatility in both historical dramas and light-hearted films.

Stage and Voice Work

In addition to his on-screen success, Pickup remained deeply connected to theatre. His performances with the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company earned him critical acclaim. He was also known for his distinctive, resonant voice, which he lent to various radio dramas, narrations, and audiobooks throughout his career.

Awards and Recognition
Ronald Pickup was nominated for a BAFTA Award for his performance in the television film The Forsyte Saga: To Let (1967). Over the years, he was celebrated for his contributions to British theatre, television, and cinema, with colleagues and critics alike praising his integrity, warmth, and dedication to his craft.

Personal Life
Ronald Pickup married actress Lans Traverse in 1964, and the couple had two children, including actress Rachel Pickup. They remained married until his passing. Despite his fame, he was known for his humility and quiet demeanor, preferring a life devoted to his family and art.

Death and Legacy
Ronald Pickup passed away on February 24, 2021, at the age of 80. His death was widely mourned across the entertainment industry.