Torin Herbert Erskine Thatcher was a renowned character actor born on January 15, 1905, in Bombay, India, to British parents. He was educated in England at the Bedford School and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Before pursuing a career in acting, Thatcher worked as a schoolteacher and appeared on the London stage, including at the Old Vic, in 1927. He made his British film debut in 1934 and went on to appear in numerous classic films, including Sabotage, Dark Journey, Night Train to Munich, and Great Expectations.
Thatcher's imposing physique and commanding presence led to a string of tough, sinister roles in action sequences, particularly in larger-than-life films. He also had a successful stage career, starring in productions such as "Hamlet," "Major Barbara," and "The Miracle Worker" on Broadway.
In the 1950s, Thatcher transitioned to Hollywood, where he became a sought-after character actor, appearing in films like The Crimson Pirate, Blackbeard, the Pirate, The Robe, and The 7th Voyage of Sinbad. He also frequently appeared on American television, starring in shows like "Omnibus," "Playhouse 90," and "Zane Grey Theatre," as well as making guest appearances on popular series like "The Millionaire," "Perry Mason," and "Star Trek."
Thatcher was married to TV actress Rita Daniel and later to Anne Le Borgne. He died on March 4, 1981, in Thousand Oaks, California, due to cancer complications.
