Peter Howitt, English actor, director, and screenwriter

Introduction to Peter Howitt

Peter Howitt, born on 5 May 1957, is a distinguished British figure known for his significant contributions to both acting and film directing. His career spans several decades, establishing him as a versatile talent within the global entertainment industry. Originally gaining prominence through his acting roles, Howitt later transitioned successfully into directing, where he achieved notable international recognition for his unique storytelling approach.

A Career on Screen: Acting Highlights

Before stepping behind the camera, Peter Howitt was a familiar face on British television and in films. He is perhaps best remembered by many for his role as Joey Boswell in the popular BBC sitcom Bread during the late 1980s, a performance that showcased his comedic timing and brought him into countless homes across the UK. Beyond comedy, Howitt also took on diverse dramatic roles, demonstrating a broad range of acting abilities that laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in filmmaking.

Transition to Directing: Notable Cinematic Works

Peter Howitt's directorial debut marked a pivotal turn in his career, quickly earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. His most iconic work as a director is arguably the 1998 romantic comedy-drama Sliding Doors, starring Gwyneth Paltrow. This film, which he also wrote, became a cultural phenomenon due to its innovative parallel narrative structure, exploring how a single moment can drastically alter two potential life paths. Its success cemented his reputation as a director with a keen eye for character development and intriguing plotlines. Following this, Howitt directed other memorable films, including the highly successful spy comedy Johnny English (2003), starring Rowan Atkinson, which garnered a global audience. He also helmed the techno-thriller AntiTrust (2001) and the suspenseful drama Reasonable Doubt (2014), showcasing his versatility across different genres.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peter Howitt

When was Peter Howitt born?
Peter Howitt was born on 5 May 1957.
What is Peter Howitt primarily known for?
Peter Howitt is widely recognized for his dual career as both a British actor and a film director. While he had a prominent acting role in the sitcom Bread, he gained significant international fame as the director of films like Sliding Doors and Johnny English.
What are some of Peter Howitt's most famous directorial works?
His most acclaimed directorial works include the romantic comedy-drama Sliding Doors (1998), the spy comedy Johnny English (2003), and the techno-thriller AntiTrust (2001).
Did Peter Howitt also write films he directed?
Yes, notably, Peter Howitt wrote the screenplay for his highly successful directorial debut, Sliding Doors.
Is Peter Howitt still active in the film industry?
While his more prominent directorial works were in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Peter Howitt has continued to work in the industry, directing projects such as Reasonable Doubt (2014) and exploring various creative roles.