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Peter Cushing was a legendary British actor best known for playing iconic roles in the Hammer Productions horror films of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. His work with Hammer, saw numerous character defining performances in: Frankenstein, The Mummy, Dracula, The Hound of the Baskervilles and many, many more - all of which have become much loved classics of the horror genre.
Who wants to see me as Hamlet? Very few. But millions want to see me as Frankenstein so that's the one I do. If I played Hamlet, they'd call it a horror film.
He made two feature films as the Doctor, in Dr. Who and The Daleks (1965) and Daleks' Invasion Earth 2150 A.D. (1966)
His formidable performance as the evil Grand Moff Tarkin in Star Wars, a New Hope in 1977 saw him connect with a whole new audience. Originally, Cushing had been approached to play the role of Obi Wan Kenobi, but could not play the part due to prior filming commitments.
His career spanned over six decades, with appearances in more than 100 films and many television, stage and radio roles. He was known for his gentle manner, professionalism and rigorous preparation for the roles he played always ensuring he learned his parts "from cover to cover" before filming began. He was honoured with an OBE in 1989 for services to the film industry.
In addition to acting, Cushing was an accomplished artist working in the mediums of drawing and watercolours. He was also an ardent vegetarian for most of his life and served as a patron of the Vegetarian Society from 1987 until his death.
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