Hugh Griffith

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Hugh Emrys Griffith (May 30, 1912 – May 14, 1980) was a film actor. He was born in Marian Glas, Anglesey, Wales.

Griffith was educated in local schools and attempted to gain entrance to university, but failed the English examination. He was then urged to make a career in banking. He became a bank clerk and transferred to London to be closer to acting opportunities. Just as he was making progress and gained admission to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he had to suspend his plans in order to serve in the army in India and Burma during World War II. He resumed his acting career in 1947.

Griffith began his film career in British films during the late 1940s, and by the 1950s was also appearing in Hollywood films.

He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Ben-Hur (1959), and received a second nomination for his role in Tom Jones (1963).

He appeared as the Magistrate in Oliver! in 1968 and, ten years later, played funeral director Caradog Loyd-Evans in the Welsh sports comedy Grand Slam. He received an honorary degree from the University of Wales, Bangor in 1980.

He died from a heart attack in London, 16 days before his 68th birthday.