Leslie Howard, English actor (d. 1943)

Leslie Howard Steiner (April 3, 1893 – June 1, 1943) was far more than just a name on a film credit; he was a quintessential English actor, a discerning director, and a savvy producer who left an indelible mark on both the stage and screen. Active during the illustrious Golden Age of Hollywood and British cinema, Howard captivated audiences worldwide, often embodying the reserved yet heroic Englishman. Beyond his acting prowess, he was also a prolific writer, contributing insightful stories and articles to prestigious publications like The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Vanity Fair, establishing himself as one of the biggest box-office draws and movie idols of the 1930s.

A Star in the Golden Age: Iconic Roles and the Quintessential Englishman

While his career spanned many acclaimed roles across two continents, Leslie Howard is perhaps most fondly remembered for his portrayal of the honorable, yet ultimately unsuitably gentle, Ashley Wilkes in the epic 1939 film Gone with the Wind. This role, alongside Vivien Leigh's Scarlett O'Hara and Clark Gable's Rhett Butler, cemented his place in cinematic history, showcasing his ability to bring nuanced depth to complex characters. But Gone with the Wind was just one highlight in a remarkable filmography. Howard frequently embraced roles that leaned into his sophisticated, often melancholic, persona, crafting the image of the "quintessential Englishman."

His impressive list of credits includes a diverse array of critically acclaimed films. He earned two Academy Award for Best Actor nominations: first for his poignant performance in Berkeley Square (1933), where he played a man traveling through time, and later for his brilliant turn as Professor Henry Higgins in the acclaimed adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion (1938), which he also co-directed. Other notable roles that showcased his range and charisma include the dashing hero Sir Percy Blakeney in The Scarlet Pimpernel (1934), a film that defined the swashbuckling genre, as well as performances in the compelling drama Of Human Bondage (1934) and the intense crime film The Petrified Forest (1936), where he starred alongside Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis. He also shared the screen with Ingrid Bergman in the romantic drama Intermezzo (1939), further solidifying his leading man status. In the throes of World War II, Howard continued to star in impactful films such as "Pimpernel" Smith (1941), a modern retelling of his famous character used for propaganda, and The First of the Few (1942), where he portrayed the designer of the Spitfire aircraft.

Beyond the Screen: Director, Producer, and Influential Writer

Leslie Howard was not merely an actor who delivered memorable performances; his creative contributions extended significantly behind the camera and onto the page. As a director and producer, he played a crucial role in shaping the films he believed in, including the aforementioned Pygmalion and "Pimpernel" Smith. His vision helped bring these stories to life with artistic integrity. Furthermore, his insightful articles and stories published in influential periodicals like The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Vanity Fair demonstrated a keen intellect and a thoughtful perspective on the world, showcasing his talents as a compelling writer to a broad audience.

Wartime Contributions and a Tragic, Mysterious End

As World War II engulfed Europe, Leslie Howard channeled his considerable influence and artistic talents into the war effort. He became a prominent figure in anti-German propaganda, using his films and public appearances to rally support for the Allies. His work during this perilous period was so vital that, two years after his death, the British Film Yearbook lauded his efforts as "one of the most valuable facets of British propaganda." He starred in and directed films with overtly patriotic themes, inspiring his compatriots and projecting an image of British resolve to the world. However, this dedication to the Allied cause led to a tragic and mysterious end.

On June 1, 1943, while returning to Britain from Lisbon, Portugal, Howard was a passenger on BOAC Flight 777, a civilian airliner that was shot down by the German Luftwaffe over the Bay of Biscay, off the coast of Cedeira, A Coruña. All on board perished. The circumstances surrounding his death quickly sparked conspiracy theories, with whispers suggesting that Howard might have been involved with British or Allied Intelligence. Some theories proposed that the Germans believed Winston Churchill was aboard the flight, or perhaps that Howard himself was a target due to his influential propaganda work and suspected intelligence activities. Regardless of the exact motive, his untimely death at the hands of the enemy solidified his image as a wartime hero, adding a poignant, almost mythical, layer to his already distinguished career.

Legacy of a Screen Legend

Leslie Howard left behind a remarkable body of work that continues to resonate. From his iconic portrayal of Ashley Wilkes to his nuanced performances in classic films and his significant contributions to the Allied cause during World War II, he remains a figure of enduring fascination. His legacy is one of elegance, intellect, and profound artistic commitment, marking him as a true screen legend whose impact stretched far beyond the silver screen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Leslie Howard

Who was Leslie Howard?

Leslie Howard (born Leslie Howard Steiner) was a distinguished English actor, director, producer, and writer, active during the Golden Age of Hollywood and British cinema. He was known for his sophisticated roles and his significant contributions to Allied propaganda during World War II.

When did Leslie Howard debut?

While his exact film debut date is not specified in the provided text, Leslie Howard's acting career began earlier in the 20th century, with significant film roles dating back to the early 1930s, such as his Academy Award-nominated performance in Berkeley Square (1933).

What films is Leslie Howard famous for?

Leslie Howard is most famous for playing Ashley Wilkes in Gone with the Wind (1939). Other highly notable films include The Scarlet Pimpernel (1934), Pygmalion (1938), Berkeley Square (1933), Of Human Bondage (1934), and The Petrified Forest (1936).

What was Leslie Howard's role in World War II?

During World War II, Leslie Howard was actively involved in anti-German propaganda efforts and worked to shore up support for the Allies. He starred in and directed patriotic films and his work was recognized as a crucial part of British propaganda.

How did Leslie Howard die?

Leslie Howard died on June 1, 1943, when the civilian airliner BOAC Flight 777, on which he was a passenger, was shot down by the German Luftwaffe over the Bay of Biscay. His death is surrounded by conspiracy theories regarding his potential involvement with British Intelligence.