One of British film's brightest and most enduring stars is to receive his first Academy Award – after more than 40 years in the business. Peter O’Toole, who has been nominated for best actor seven times, is to receive an honorary Oscar at the March 23 ceremony.
"He's seven times been nominated as best actor, which puts him in extremely rarefied air for a performer. The Board of Governors felt it was time for him to hold his own Oscar in his hands," said Academy president Frank Pierson. "O'Toole's performances have ignited the screen for more than four decades… He has appeared in some of the most unforgettable roles in the history of the medium."
The 70-year-old actor shot to stardom in 1963 after his portrayal of TE Lawrence in Lawrence of Arabia, which won him his first nomination. In the years that followed he received the nod six more times, but never managed to win.
The Academy gives its honorary awards for "exceptional distinction in the making of motion pictures or for outstanding service to the academy." Sydney Poitier took the prestigious statuette last year. This year, however, Irish-born Mr 0'Toole will be receiving the applause when Steve Martin presents the awards.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
