Brian Bedford, English-American actor and director (b. 1935)

Brian Bedford (16 February 1935 – 13 January 2016) was an esteemed English actor, celebrated for his versatile contributions across the stage and screen. Renowned for his profound connection to classical theatre, particularly the works of William Shakespeare, Bedford was not only a distinguished actor but also an accomplished director of numerous Shakespearean productions.

His illustrious career on Broadway garnered him exceptional recognition from the American Theatre Wing, leading to an impressive seven Tony Award nominations in acting categories. This remarkable achievement positioned him as one of the most nominated male actors in Tony Awards history, second only to the legendary Jason Robards, who holds the record with eight nominations. Bedford's nominations spanned several decades, showcasing his enduring talent and versatility, with acclaimed performances in productions such as "Jumpers," "The Molière Comedies," "London Assurance," "The School for Wives," "Long Day's Journey Into Night," and "The Importance of Being Earnest," the latter of which he also directed.

Beyond his prolific stage work, Brian Bedford gained widespread recognition for an iconic voice role that endeared him to generations: the titular character in Disney's 1973 animated feature film, "Robin Hood." In this beloved adaptation, Bedford lent his distinctive voice to the charming, fox-like hero, bringing a unique blend of wit, warmth, and nobility to the character. This animated classic, notable for its anthropomorphic animal characters and enduring appeal, proved to be a significant influence on future Disney projects.

Notably, director Byron Howard, co-director of the Academy Award-winning animated film "Zootopia" (2016), has openly credited Disney's "Robin Hood" as a major inspiration. Howard specifically cited the film's innovative approach to creating a fully realized world populated by anthropomorphic animals as a foundational concept for "Zootopia," a film that explores themes of prejudice and coexistence within a bustling animal metropolis. Bedford's performance as Robin Hood thus left an indelible mark not only on animation history but also on the creative development of a contemporary animated masterpiece, solidifying his legacy beyond the footlights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brian Bedford

What was Brian Bedford best known for?
Brian Bedford was primarily known as an acclaimed English stage actor, especially for his work in Shakespearean and classical theatre, where he also served as a director. He also gained widespread recognition as the voice of Disney's Robin Hood in the 1973 animated film.
How many Tony Award nominations did Brian Bedford receive?
Brian Bedford received seven Tony Award nominations for his acting performances on Broadway, placing him among the most nominated male actors in Tony history, second only to Jason Robards.
Did Brian Bedford voice Robin Hood in the Disney animated film?
Yes, Brian Bedford provided the voice for the main character, Robin Hood, in the classic 1973 Disney animated film "Robin Hood."
How did Disney's "Robin Hood" influence "Zootopia"?
Director Byron Howard of "Zootopia" cited Disney's 1973 "Robin Hood" as a major inspiration, particularly for its concept of a detailed world inhabited by anthropomorphic animals, which directly influenced the world-building and character design of "Zootopia."
What type of roles did Brian Bedford typically play?
Brian Bedford was highly regarded for his versatility, excelling in classical roles, particularly in Shakespearean plays, as well as comedies and dramas on both the British and American stages.