Hugh Emrys Griffith (30 May 1912 â€" 14 May 1980) was a Welsh film,
stage and television actor. He is best remembered for his role in the
film Ben-Hur (1959), which earned him critical acclaim and an Academy
Award for Best Supporting Actor. Some of his other notable credits
include Exodus (1960), Mutiny on the Bounty (1962), Tom Jones (1963)
and Oliver! (1968).Griffith was born in Marian-glas, Anglesey, Wales,
the youngest son of Mary and William Griffith. He was educated at
Llangefni County School and attempted to gain entrance to university,
but failed the English examination. He was then urged to make a career
in banking, becoming a bank clerk and transferring 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 join the British Army, serving for six
years with the Royal Welch Fusiliers in India and the Burma Campaign
during the Second World War. He resumed his acting career in 1946.
stage and television actor. He is best remembered for his role in the
film Ben-Hur (1959), which earned him critical acclaim and an Academy
Award for Best Supporting Actor. Some of his other notable credits
include Exodus (1960), Mutiny on the Bounty (1962), Tom Jones (1963)
and Oliver! (1968).Griffith was born in Marian-glas, Anglesey, Wales,
the youngest son of Mary and William Griffith. He was educated at
Llangefni County School and attempted to gain entrance to university,
but failed the English examination. He was then urged to make a career
in banking, becoming a bank clerk and transferring 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 join the British Army, serving for six
years with the Royal Welch Fusiliers in India and the Burma Campaign
during the Second World War. He resumed his acting career in 1946.
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