Richard Fraser (actor)

Richard Fraser

from the trailer for The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945)
Born Richard Mackie Simpson
(1913-03-15)March 15, 1913
Edinburgh, Scotland
Died January 19, 1972(1972-01-19) (aged 58)
London, England
Occupation Actor
Years active 1941–1949
Spouse(s)

Louise Christine Sheldon (1938-1944) (divorced) 1 child

Ann Gillis (1952-1970) (divorced) 1 child

Richard Fraser (15 March 1913 – 19 January 1972) was a Scottish actor.

Early life

After graduating from Sedbergh School as Richard Mackie Simpson, Richard's mother divorced and his name was shortened to Richard Mackie. After attending Cambridge University, Richard Mackie studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Having Spent time as a London stage actor, Richard emigrated to the USA and in New York married Louise Christine Sheldon, the couple then moved to Hollywood before the Second World War. Discovering that there was already a Richard Mackie acting in the US he adopted the stage name Richard Fraser.[1] He then signed a contract with 20th Century Fox and appeared in numerous films.[2]

Career

His American film career reached its peak with his performance as James Vane, the vengeful brother of Sibyl Vane in the film The Picture of Dorian Gray. Richard retired from acting in 1949, returning to Britain in 1961 with his then-wife, US actress Ann Gillis, spending his most of his last decade working for the BBC in export sales.[2]

Private life

Richard married Louise Christine Sheldon in 1938 and had a daughter by her, they divorced in 1944.[1] Richard then married actress Ann Gillis in 1952, and had a son by her.[3] After retiring from acting in 1949 Richard and Ann lived in Britain in the 1960s, Richard as a businessman, as Ann continued her acting career. The two divorced in 1970, two years prior to Richard's death due to cancer.[4]

Filmography

References

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