Image credits: Wikimedia Commons
Ralph Fiennes
December 22, 1962
Ipswich, England
63 Years Old
Capricorn
Who Is Ralph Fiennes?
Ralph Nathaniel Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes is a British actor and director, renowned for his elegant and intense performances across stage and screen. His versatile career spans independent films, blockbusters, and critically acclaimed theater productions.
He first burst into the public eye with his chilling portrayal of Amon Göth in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 Holocaust epic, Schindler's List. This menacing performance earned him an Academy Award nomination and swiftly launched his international film career.
Early Life and Education
Born in Ipswich, England, Ralph Fiennes grew up as the eldest of six children in a family that deeply valued creativity. His father, Mark Fiennes, was a photographer, and his mother, Jennifer Lash, was a writer.
Fiennes initially pursued painting at Chelsea College of Art and Design before transferring to London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He graduated in 1985 and quickly gained prominence on stage, notably with the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Notable Relationships
Ralph Fiennes met actress Alex Kingston while they were both students at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, dating for a decade before marrying in 1993. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1997.
Following his divorce, Fiennes began a relationship with actress Francesca Annis, his Hamlet co-star, which lasted from 1995 until their separation in 2006.
Career Highlights
Ralph Fiennes's career is distinguished by a range of complex and memorable roles, beginning with his acclaimed performance in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film, Schindler's List. He further earned critical praise for his work in The English Patient (1996), which secured him another Academy Award nomination.
Beyond his dramatic roles, Fiennes achieved global recognition portraying the iconic villain Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter film series and later took on the role of Gareth Mallory, or M, in the James Bond franchise.
His extensive stage work includes a Tony Award win for playing the title role in the 1995 Broadway revival of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
Signature Quote
“Actors use who they are to be someone else, but I would hate to ever think I'm playing myself. It's imagining being someone else that is the key motivating thing for me.”