David Hugh Leland, a British theatre, film, and television writer, director, and actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with a career spanning over five decades.
Initially training as an actor at the Central School of Speech and Drama, Leland made his mark on the stage, working as a stage manager and director at the Crucible Theatre. He played a crucial role in nurturing the talents of emerging artists, including Michael Palin and Terry Jones, and gave Victoria Wood her first playwriting opportunity.
Leland's impressive list of credits includes directing the British premiere of Tennessee Williams' 'The Red Devil Battery Sign' at The Round House, starring Pierce Brosnan in his first acting role.
As a screenwriter, Leland penned cult classics such as 'Made in Britain' (1982) and 'Mona Lisa' (1986),earning numerous award nominations, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe nomination.
Leland's directorial debut, 'Wish You Were Here' (1987),earned him a BAFTA for Best Original Screenplay and won the FIPRESCI prize at the Cannes Film Festival. His subsequent films, including 'The Big Man' (1990) and 'Land Girls' (1998),showcased his versatility as a director.
Leland's passion for music, particularly blues and jazz, led him to direct the successful stage musical 'A Tribute to the Blues Brothers' in 1991. He later returned to television, directing the Emmy-winning episode 'Bastogne' for HBO's 'Band of Brothers' (2001) and contributing to Showtime's 'The Borgias'.
Leland's close friendship with George Harrison led to collaborations on several projects, including directing music videos and the documentary 'Concert For George' (2003),which won a GRAMMY Award and went platinum eight times over.
