Richard Armitage: The Actor Behind the Iconic Character of Thorin Oakenshield

Richard Armitage is a name that has become synonymous with the realm of Middle-earth, thanks to his iconic portrayal of Thorin Oakenshield in Peter Jackson's epic fantasy trilogy, The Hobbit. With his chiseled features, piercing gaze, and commanding presence, Armitage brought the character to life in a way that captivated audiences worldwide. But beyond his impressive performance on screen, Richard Armitage is a talented actor with a rich career spanning over two decades. In this article, we'll delve into the life and career of Richard Armitage, exploring his journey from humble beginnings to international stardom.

Born on August 22, 1971, in Sheffield, England, Richard Alexander Armitage grew up in a family of modest means. His father, Alan Armitage, was a mechanical engineer, and his mother, Margaret Armitage, was a medical scientist. Armitage's early life was marked by a strong work ethic and a passion for the performing arts. He attended Hill House School in Sheffield, where he developed a love for acting and music.

Early Career and Breakthrough Roles

After completing his secondary education, Armitage attended Grayson's College in London, where he honed his acting skills and appeared in various stage productions. His early career was marked by a string of small roles in British television and film, including appearances in the BBC's "Robin of Sherwood" and the ITV series "Bardoy".

However, it was his breakout role as Robert Baratheon in the HBO series "Game of Thrones" that catapulted Armitage to international stardom. The show's massive success led to widespread recognition and praise for Armitage's performance, cementing his status as a leading man in the industry.

Key Roles in Early Career

Some of Armitage's notable early roles include:

• Robin of Sherwood (1984-1986) - Armitage played the role of a young Robin Hood in this popular BBC series.
• Bardoy (1993) - Armitage appeared in this ITV series as a young man.
• The Hobbit (2012-2014) - Armitage played the lead role of Thorin Oakenshield in Peter Jackson's epic fantasy trilogy.

The Hobbit: A Game-Changing Role

The Hobbit trilogy marked a significant turning point in Armitage's career, as he brought the iconic character of Thorin Oakenshield to life on the big screen. The film's success was unprecedented, grossing over $2.9 billion worldwide and establishing Armitage as a household name.

Under Armitage's direction, Thorin Oakenshield became an unforgettable character, known for his bravery, determination, and unwavering commitment to his people. Armitage's performance earned him widespread critical acclaim, including a National Television Award for Most Popular Actor.

Acting Style and Influences

Armitage's acting style is characterized by his rugged charm, brooding intensity, and ability to convey vulnerability and depth. His performances are often influenced by his own experiences and interests, including his love of history and literature.

In interviews, Armitage has cited influences such as Marlon Brando, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Laurence Olivier, citing their ability to fully immerse themselves in their roles as an inspiration.

Some of the key themes and genres that feature prominently in Armitage's work include:

• Historical dramas
• Fantasy and science fiction
• Epic adventures

Filmography and Notable Roles

Armitage has appeared in a wide range of films and television series throughout his career, including:

• Spooks (2006) - Armitage played the role of a police officer in this British spy thriller.
• Hawking (2004) - Armitage appeared as a young Stephen Hawking in this biographical drama.
• Mansfield Park (1999) - Armitage played the role of Edward Ferrars in this adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel.

Awards and Nominations

Armitage's performance as Thorin Oakenshield earned him numerous awards and nominations, including:

• National Television Award for Most Popular Actor (2013)
• Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Actor: Fantasy (2013)
• Saturn Award for Best Actor on Television (2013)

Personal Life and Interests

Armitage is a private person, but he has spoken publicly about his interests and hobbies, including his love of history, literature, and music. He is also an avid supporter of several charitable organizations, including the Royal Shakespeare Company and the London-based charity, Help for Heroes.

In his free time, Armitage enjoys hiking, reading, and playing guitar. He has also been known to take up new hobbies and interests, including photography and woodworking.

Conclusion

Richard Armitage is a talented actor with a rich career spanning over two decades. From his early days as a young actor in British television and film to his breakout role as Robert Baratheon in "Game of Thrones", Armitage has consistently demonstrated his range and versatility as an actor.

Through his iconic portrayal of Thorin Oakenshield in "The Hobbit" trilogy, Armitage cemented his status as a leading man in the industry, earning widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. As he continues to take on new roles and challenges, Armitage remains a respected and beloved figure in the world of entertainment.