John Laurie was a Scottish actor who had a long and illustrious career, playing a wide range of characters in nearly 120 screen roles. Born to a millworker, he initially studied architecture, but World War I led him to join the British army instead. After the war, he trained to become an actor at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
Laurie's first stage play was in 1921, and he went on to hone his skills at the Old Vic in London, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Open Air in Regent's Park. He began to appear in films in the 1930s, with his first movie being the Sean O'Casey play Juno and the Paycock in 1930.
One of his most notable early roles was as John Crofter in Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps in 1935. He also appeared in several Shakespearean productions, including As You Like It with Laurence Olivier in 1936.
In the 1930s and 1940s, Laurie continued to appear in a wide range of films, including The Edge of the World, The Four Feathers, and The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp. He also worked extensively in television, appearing in productions such as Henry V, Hamlet, and Richard III.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Laurie continued to work in film and television, appearing in a variety of roles, including comedy and sci-fi films. He also appeared in several American co-productions, including Treasure Island and Kidnapped.
Throughout his career, Laurie was known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of characters. He was also a prolific television actor, appearing in a number of series and serials, including the popular "Dad's Army" series.
One of Laurie's most memorable roles was as James Frazer in "Dad's Army," a character he played from 1968 to 1977. He also appeared in several BBC television productions, including a Henry V and a series of Shakespearean plays.
In his later years, Laurie continued to work in film and television, appearing in productions such as Return to the Edge of the World, a short documentary that was included with the 2003 DVD release of the 1937 film.
