Hugh Laurie

About

Hugh Laurie is a well-known name in the entertainment industry, recognized for his versatile talent and exceptional acting skills. Born in Oxford, England, he started his career in the early 1980s and has since then become a household name, renowned for his work in comedy, drama, and music. Most famous for his role in the hit medical drama series “”House””, Laurie has expanded his repertoire to include several other notable roles in film and television. Beyond acting, he is also an accomplished musician and voice actor, making his mark in the industry with his unique style and captivating performances.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life and career of Hugh Laurie, exploring his early beginnings, rise to fame, personal life, and future endeavors.

Early Life and Career of Hugh Laurie

Family Background and Childhood

Hugh Laurie was born on June 11, 1959, in Oxford, England. His father, William George Ranald Mundell Laurie, was a doctor who won a gold medal in the rowing event at the 1948 Olympics. His mother, Patricia Laidlaw, was a former colonial administrator in India. Hugh was the youngest of four children and grew up in a privileged upbringing.

Education and Early Interest in Acting and Comedy

Hugh Laurie attended the Dragon School in Oxford and later went on to study at Eton College. He then attended Selwyn College, Cambridge, where he earned a degree in archaeology and anthropology. While at Cambridge, he began performing in student comedy shows and was a member of the famous Cambridge Footlights, where he met future comedy partner, Emma Thompson.

Starting Out in the British Comedy Scene

After university, Laurie began his comedy career in the early 1980s, performing in various sketch comedy and satirical TV shows, including “”Blackadder”” and “”A Bit of Fry & Laurie.”” His partnership with Stephen Fry garnered a large following, and the two became one of the most popular comedy duos in Britain.

Hugh Laurie’s Rise to Fame with “”House””

The Role of Dr. Gregory House

In 2004, Hugh Laurie landed the lead role of Dr. Gregory House in the medical drama “”House.”” The show was an instant hit, and Laurie’s performance as the acerbic and sarcastic doctor earned him critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.

Critical and Commercial Success

During its eight-year run, “”House”” received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, with Laurie winning two Golden Globe Awards for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama. The show also gained a devoted fanbase, and Laurie became one of the highest-paid actors on television.

Impact on Hugh Laurie’s Career

“”House”” was a game-changer for Hugh Laurie’s career, propelling him from a well-known comedy actor in Britain to an international star. The show opened up new opportunities for him, including voice acting roles and a career as a musician.

Expanding into Music and Voice Acting

Collaboration with musician and songwriter, Joe Henry

In 2011, Hugh Laurie released his debut album, “”Let Them Talk,”” a collection of blues covers that featured collaborations with legendary musicians such as Tom Jones and Irma Thomas. His second album, “”Didn’t It Rain,”” followed in 2013 and was produced by musician and songwriter Joe Henry.

Voice Acting in Animated Films

Laurie has also had a successful career as a voice actor, with notable roles in animated films such as “”Monsters vs. Aliens,”” “”Arthur Christmas,”” and “”The Canterville Ghost.””

Reception of Hugh Laurie’s Music and Voice Acting Work

Despite initial skepticism from some music critics, Hugh Laurie’s music has been well-received by audiences, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Blues Albums chart. His voice acting work has also been praised, with critics noting his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters.

Awards and Accolades for Hugh Laurie

Primetime Emmy Nominations and Wins

Hugh Laurie received six Primetime Emmy nominations for his role in “”House,”” winning twice for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2007 and 2008.

Golden Globe Nominations and Wins

Laurie has been nominated for nine Golden Globe Awards, winning two for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama for “”House”” in 2006 and 2007.

Other Awards and Recognitions

In addition to his Emmy and Golden Globe wins, Hugh Laurie has received numerous other awards and recognitions throughout his career. He was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2007 for his services to drama, and in 2018, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Personal Life and Charitable Work of Hugh Laurie

Marriage and Family

Hugh Laurie was born in Oxford, England in 1959, the youngest of four children. He married theater administrator Jo Green in 1989, and the couple has three children together. Despite being a Hollywood star, Laurie is known for keeping his family life private and out of the spotlight.

Philanthropic Work and Political Activism

In addition to his successful acting career, Laurie is also known for his philanthropic work and political activism. He has been a longtime supporter of charitable organizations such as Comic Relief and Amnesty International, and he has also been active in environmental causes.

Laurie has also been known to use his platform to speak out on political issues, particularly in his home country of England. He has been a vocal critic of the Conservative government and has spoken out against Brexit.

Public Image and Reputation

Laurie is known for his wit and dry sense of humor, and he has built a reputation as a talented and versatile actor. He is also known for his humility and down-to-earth personality, despite his fame.

Hugh Laurie’s Recent Projects and Future Plans

Recent Acting Roles in Film and Television

In recent years, Laurie has continued to work steadily in film and television. He played Senator Tom James in the HBO series “”Veep,”” and he also had a role in the Hulu miniseries “”Catch-22.”” Most recently, he starred in the British mystery series “”Roadkill.””

Upcoming Projects and Productions

Laurie has a number of upcoming projects in the works, including the PBS series “”Masterpiece: Roadkill,”” which will air in the United States in 2021. He is also set to star in the upcoming HBO limited series “”The Undoing,”” alongside Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant.

Potential Return to Music and Voice Acting

In addition to his acting career, Laurie is also a talented musician and has released two albums to critical acclaim. He has hinted at the possibility of returning to music in the future. He has also been involved in voice acting, having provided the voice of a character in the animated film “”Hop.””

Legacy of Hugh Laurie in Hollywood and Beyond

Influence on British and American Television

Laurie’s portrayal of Dr. Gregory House in the hit television series “”House”” was widely praised and earned him multiple awards. The show had a significant impact on the medical drama genre and helped to establish Laurie as a household name in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Impact on the Medical Drama Genre

Laurie’s performance in “”House”” is credited with helping to revitalize the medical drama genre, which had been in decline for several years prior to the show’s premiere. His portrayal of a complex and flawed character helped to set a new standard for medical dramas and paved the way for future shows in the genre.

Contribution to Comedy and Music

In addition to his work in drama, Laurie has also made significant contributions to comedy and music. He is perhaps best known in these areas for his work on the sketch comedy show “”A Bit of Fry and Laurie”” with his longtime collaborator Stephen Fry. The duo’s irreverent humor and wit helped to redefine British comedy in the 1980s and 1990s.

Laurie’s music career has also been successful, with his albums “”Let Them Talk”” and “”Didn’t It Rain”” both receiving critical acclaim. His talents as a musician and songwriter have helped to solidify him as a multi-faceted and accomplished artist.In summary, Hugh Laurie’s impressive legacy in the entertainment industry is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication. He has left an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond, captivating audiences with his diverse range of performances and contributions to music and voice acting. As he continues to take on new roles and projects, we can only look forward to what else he has in store for us.

FAQ

What is Hugh Laurie’s most famous role?

Hugh Laurie’s most famous role is that of Dr. Gregory House in the medical drama series “”House””.

What awards has Hugh Laurie won?

Hugh Laurie has won several awards throughout his career, including two Golden Globes and six Primetime Emmy nominations for his role in “”House””. He has also been recognized for his music work with two Grammy nominations.

Is Hugh Laurie still active in the entertainment industry?

Yes, Hugh Laurie is still active in the entertainment industry. He has taken on several film and television roles in recent years and continues to pursue his passion for music and voice acting.

What charitable causes is Hugh Laurie involved in?

Hugh Laurie is involved in several charitable causes, including Oxfam, Comic Relief, and the Prince’s Trust. He is also a vocal advocate for the fight against climate change and has been involved in several environmental campaigns.

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Last Updated: 3rd April 2023