Robert Donat
back| Full Name | Friedrich Robert Donat |
| Stage Name | Robert Donat |
| Born | March 18, 1905 |
| Birthplace | Withington, Manchester, England |
| Died | June 9, 1958 |
| Buried | East Finchley Cemetery, London, England |
| Married to | Ella Annesley Voysey (1929–1946, divorced) - Renée Asherson (1953–his death in 1958) |
| Children | John Donat, Joanna Donat, Brian Donat |
| Notable films | The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933) - The 39 Steps (1935) - Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939) - The Count of Monte Cristo (1934) |
Robert Donat
The Voice of British Cinema
Robert Donat (1905–1958) was a distinguished British actor known for his refined, intelligent performances and his rich, expressive voice. Born in Manchester, he overcame a childhood stammer through elocution training, which shaped his distinctive delivery. He gained international fame with The 39 Steps (1935) and won an Academy Award for Best Actor for Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939), beating Clark Gable in Gone with the Wind.
Despite Hollywood interest, he remained dedicated to British cinema, excelling in The Citadel (1938), The Winslow Boy (1948), and his final film, The Inn of the Sixth Happiness (1958). His career was often hindered by chronic asthma, limiting his output but never his impact. Known for his gentlemanly demeanor and subtle emotional depth, Donat left a legacy as one of Britain’s greatest screen actors. He passed away at 53 from a cerebral hemorrhage but remains a beloved figure in classic cinema.
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Robert Donat (1905 – 1958)
Biography and Movie Career
Friedrich Robert Donat was born on March 18, 1905, in Withington, Manchester, England, into a working-class family of German descent. He was the youngest of four sons born to Ernst Emil Donat, a civil engineer, and Rose Alice Green. Although his family was not involved in the arts, Donat developed an early interest in literature and performance.
As a child, Donat struggled with a severe speech impediment—a stammer that could have hindered his ambitions. Determined to overcome this, he received elocution lessons from James Bernard, a well-known Manchester speech coach. Through rigorous training, Donat not only overcame his stammer but also cultivated the rich, resonant voice that would later become one of his trademarks.
Education and Early Theatrical Career
Donat was drawn to the stage from a young age, performing in local theatrical productions as a teenager. He made his professional stage debut at 16 years old, joining Sir Frank Benson’s Shakespearean company. Over the next decade, he honed his craft, touring Britain and performing in Shakespearean plays, including Hamlet, Macbeth, and Julius Caesar. His command of classical roles and his dignified, romantic presence made him stand out among young actors of his generation.
Though his reputation grew in the theatre world, Donat longed for greater recognition. His refined delivery and natural charisma caught the attention of film producers just as British cinema was gaining international prominence.
Breakthrough in Film and Rise to Stardom
In 1932, Donat made his film debut in Men of Tomorrow, but it was Alexander Korda’s The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933) that truly launched his career. Though his role was small, his performance left an impression. That same year, he starred in The Count of Monte Cristo (1934), which showcased his ability to play heroic, intelligent, and emotionally complex characters.
His big breakthrough came in 1935 when he starred in Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps. Playing the suave yet beleaguered Richard Hannay, Donat exuded charm, wit, and suspenseful intensity, setting a precedent for later Hitchcockian protagonists. The film’s success catapulted Donat into international stardom, and Hollywood studios eagerly sought him. However, he remained committed to British cinema, reluctant to fully embrace the Hollywood system.
Career High Point: Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939)
Donat’s most celebrated role came in 1939, when he starred in Goodbye, Mr. Chips as Mr. Chipping, a shy and devoted schoolteacher whose life unfolds over decades. His performance, filled with quiet dignity and emotional depth, won him the Academy Award for Best Actor, beating Clark Gable in Gone with the Wind. Despite the monumental win, Donat’s career was often hindered by his persistent asthma, which limited the number of films he could take on.
Throughout the 1940s, he continued to deliver powerful performances, particularly in The Citadel (1938), The Adventures of Tartu (1943), and The Winslow Boy (1948). However, his frequent bouts of ill health meant that he could not sustain the relentless schedule required of a film star.
Personal Life and Marriages
Donat’s personal life was as complex as his on-screen characters. He was married twice:
• Ella Annesley Voysey (1929–1946): His first marriage was to Ella Voysey, with whom he had three children—John, Joanna, and Brian. However, Donat’s struggles with his health, combined with the pressures of his career, placed a strain on the marriage, leading to their divorce in 1946.
• Renée Asherson (1953–1958): In 1953, Donat married Renée Asherson, an accomplished actress. Although they shared a deep affection, Donat’s failing health made their life together challenging.
Outside of acting, Donat was passionate about poetry and literature, often reciting works by Shakespeare and classical poets. He had a refined, introspective personality, preferring quiet intellectual pursuits over the fast-paced lifestyle of many of his contemporaries.
Final Years and Death
By the early 1950s, Donat’s health had deteriorated significantly. His lifelong battle with asthma became more severe, making it difficult for him to work consistently. He took on fewer roles, though he remained highly respected in the industry.
His final film was The Inn of the Sixth Happiness (1958), in which he played a Chinese Mandarin alongside Ingrid Bergman. Although visibly frail, he delivered a poignant performance. During production, he collapsed several times due to his illness, but his dedication never wavered.
On June 9, 1958, Robert Donat passed away at the age of 53 due to a cerebral hemorrhage brought on by severe asthma complications. He was buried at East Finchley Cemetery in London.
Legacy
Despite his relatively short career, Donat remains one of Britain’s most revered actors. His performances in The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips are considered classics, and his distinctive, mellifluous voice continues to be admired by cinephiles. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Donat never sought the trappings of fame, choosing instead to focus on the craft of acting itself. His legacy endures as that of a gifted, dignified, and deeply human performer whose impact on cinema remains profound.
Robert Donat's Physical Measurements and Features
• Height: 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 170 lbs (77 kg) (varied throughout his career)
• Hair Color: Light brown
• Eye Color: Hazel
• Build: Lean, with a naturally aristocratic posture
Facial Features:
- o Strong jawline and high cheekbones
- o Expressive, deep-set eyes
- o A distinctive, warm smile
Voice:
Deep, rich, and melodious, often described as one of the most elegant voices in British cinema
Distinguishing Traits:
- o Graceful, refined mannerisms
- o A gentle yet commanding presence
- o Often projected intelligence and warmth in his roles
Donat had a naturally distinguished and gentlemanly look, which made him perfect for roles requiring both charm and depth. His lean frame and expressive face allowed him to convey subtle emotions, making him one of the most compelling actors of his time.
Documentary on Robert Donat
Robert Donat’s Acting Style: A Timeless Elegance
Robert Donat’s acting style was characterized by grace, intelligence, and an understated emotional depth. Unlike many of his contemporaries, who leaned toward theatricality or overt bravado, Donat had a naturalistic approach that was both refined and deeply moving. He possessed an innate dignity that made his performances feel effortlessly authentic, while his resonant voice, expressive eyes, and nuanced delivery added layers of complexity to his characters.
A Voice Like Poetry
Donat’s voice was one of his most distinctive assets. It was rich, measured, and melodic, capable of conveying both warmth and authority. His early struggles with a stammer led him to develop precise diction and a beautifully modulated cadence, making his speech feel almost poetic. Whether playing a humble schoolteacher (Goodbye, Mr. Chips), a charismatic adventurer (The 39 Steps), or an impassioned barrister (The Winslow Boy), Donat’s voice carried a musicality and sincerity that drew audiences in.
Naturalism and Emotional Subtlety
Unlike many actors of his time, who embraced the grand gestures and heightened delivery of stage performance, Donat mastered a more intimate and introspective style. He understood the power of restraint, often conveying emotion through the smallest facial expressions, a moment of hesitation, or a slight shift in tone. His performances never felt forced or overly rehearsed; instead, he seemed to live within his characters, making them feel human and relatable.
His ability to underplay emotions was particularly evident in Goodbye, Mr. Chips. Rather than relying on overt sentimentality, he portrayed Mr. Chipping’s evolution from a shy, awkward teacher to a beloved, elderly figure with a quiet dignity that resonated deeply with audiences.
The Gentleman Hero
Donat was often cast as the charming, intelligent leading man, a figure of quiet heroism rather than brawny bravado. His roles in The 39 Steps and Knight Without Armour showcased his ability to balance adventure with wit, playing characters who were quick-thinking, self-assured, and slightly self-deprecating. Unlike Hollywood’s swashbuckling icons, Donat’s heroes relied more on intellect and charm than on brute force, making them feel more grounded and believable.
Strength in Vulnerability
One of Donat’s greatest strengths was his ability to blend strength with vulnerability. He was not afraid to show the inner struggles of his characters, whether it was the moral conflict of a young doctor in The Citadel or the quiet sorrow of an aging teacher in Goodbye, Mr. Chips. His performances often carried a deep humanity and warmth, making his characters feel both noble and profoundly real.
A Reluctant Star
Despite his talent, Donat was never fully comfortable with stardom. Unlike many leading men of his time, he avoided Hollywood’s excesses and resisted being typecast. He was known for turning down roles that required excessive physicality or dramatic overstatement, preferring scripts that allowed for character depth and intellectual engagement. His battle with chronic asthma also meant that he had to be selective about his projects, leading to a carefully curated filmography that prioritized quality over quantity.
Shakespearean Foundations
His background in classical theatre, particularly Shakespearean performance, informed much of his screen work. He had a commanding presence, an ability to handle complex language effortlessly, and a deep understanding of dramatic rhythm. This was evident in films like The Winslow Boy, where his delivery carried both legal precision and emotional weight, and The Young Mr. Pitt, where he brought historical gravitas to the role of Britain’s youngest prime minister.
A Legacy of Timelessness
Donat’s acting style has aged remarkably well. While some of his contemporaries relied on mannerisms or theatricality that feel dated today, Donat’s performances remain fresh, sincere, and deeply affecting. His ability to convey both intelligence and vulnerability, his mastery of subtle emotion, and his effortless charm make him one of the most enduring actors of the golden age of British cinema.
Awards and Recognition of Robert Donat
Robert Donat was widely respected for his refined acting style, natural charisma, and emotional depth, earning him critical acclaim and prestigious awards during his career. Below is a complete overview of his major awards and recognitions:
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Academy Awards (Oscars)
• 1939 – Best Actor: Won for Goodbye, Mr. Chips
o Donat’s performance as Mr. Chipping, a shy schoolteacher who grows into a beloved institution, won him the Academy Award for Best Actor, beating Clark Gable in Gone with the Wind. His victory was considered one of the biggest upsets in Oscar history, as Gone with the Wind dominated that year.
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BAFTA Awards
• 1959 – Best British Actor (Posthumous Nomination): Nominated for The Inn of the Sixth Happiness
o Although Donat was visibly frail in this film, his moving performance as a wise Mandarin was recognized with a BAFTA nomination after his death.
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New York Film Critics Circle Awards
• 1939 – Best Actor: Won for Goodbye, Mr. Chips
o This award reinforced his status as one of the finest actors of his time. The New York Film Critics Circle was (and remains) one of the most prestigious critics' organizations in the U.S.
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National Board of Review Awards (USA)
• 1938 – Best Actor: Won for The Citadel
o His portrayal of a young, idealistic doctor who becomes disillusioned with the medical profession was widely praised.
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Evening Standard British Film Awards
• 1948 – Best Actor: Won for The Winslow Boy
o His role as Sir Robert Morton, the brilliant barrister fighting for justice, was lauded for its restraint and intelligence.
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Other Recognitions and Honors
Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Donat was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring his contribution to cinema.
Legacy in British Film Industry
• He was named one of the greatest British actors of all time, consistently ranking among the top in retrospectives and industry polls.
• The British Film Institute (BFI) and other institutions have frequently cited The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips as two of the most significant British films ever made.
Influence on Later Generations
• Many British actors, including Peter O’Toole, Michael Redgrave, and Derek Jacobi, cited Donat as an influence due to his ability to balance Shakespearean gravitas with cinematic naturalism.
Memorable Quotes by Robert Donat
Robert Donat was known not only for his elegant screen presence but also for his thoughtful and introspective nature. Here are some of his most memorable quotes, reflecting his views on acting, fame, and life:
On Acting and His Career
• "As a boy, I began to practice on myself for the profession I had chosen. I would stand before my mirror and weep and grin, and grimace and strut, and try to discover how each expression was produced."
o (On his early passion for acting and self-training.)
• "Actors are the opposite of people."
o (A witty reflection on how actors often live their lives through the characters they portray rather than as themselves.)
• "The delicacy and poignancy of human relationships are so often something to be treasured and remembered."
o (A sentiment that was reflected in his emotionally rich performances.)
• "I suppose a hero is someone who has the qualities which one lacks oneself."
o (On the kind of roles he often played and admired.)
On Hollywood and Fame
• "I can't see any sense in being a movie star just for the sake of it, and that is what I dislike about Hollywood."
o (On why he preferred working in Britain rather than embracing Hollywood fame.)
• "To act well, one needs to be aware of life, and Hollywood is divorced from life."
o (A reflection on his belief that great acting comes from lived experiences, something he felt Hollywood often lacked.)
On Life and Struggles
• "If ever I was called upon to define my own attitude to life, I should say that it is expressed best in one word—'hope'."
o (A personal philosophy that resonated throughout his career and personal battles with illness.)
• "I have always had a horror of words, knowing how often they betray their meaning."
o (Possibly influenced by his early struggles with a stammer, showing his deep understanding of communication beyond words.)
From His Films
• "We are not asking for justice, Sir Robert. We are asking for mercy!" (The Winslow Boy, 1948)
o A powerful courtroom line that exemplifies his ability to deliver dialogue with conviction and emotional depth.
• "You’re getting on in years, sir… and you mustn’t take Chips too seriously." (Goodbye, Mr. Chips, 1939)
o A tender line from his most iconic role, highlighting the warmth and humanity he brought to his characters.
What Others Said About Robert Donat
Robert Donat was widely admired by his peers, critics, and those who worked with him. Despite his relatively small filmography, his impact was profound, and many who knew him or watched his performances had great respect for his talent, humility, and unique screen presence.
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Fellow Actors and Directors
Ingrid Bergman (Co-star in The Inn of the Sixth Happiness)
• "He had the most beautiful voice in the world. He could make you cry just by reading the telephone book."
o (Bergman was deeply moved by Donat’s ability to convey emotion through his voice, even when his health was failing during his final film.)
Alfred Hitchcock (Director of The 39 Steps)
• "Robert Donat had an extraordinary ability to combine charm with intelligence. He was a thinking man’s hero."
o (Hitchcock greatly admired Donat’s ability to portray the "everyman in peril" role with sophistication and wit.)
David Niven (Actor and Friend)
• "He was one of the finest actors of our time, and he never knew how good he really was."
o (Niven recognized Donat’s humility and reluctance to embrace full-fledged Hollywood stardom.)
Renée Asherson (Second Wife and Actress)
• "He was an actor of enormous tenderness and quiet power. There was never any bravado, only truth."
o (Asherson, who was married to Donat until his death, understood his deeply introspective and sincere approach to acting.)
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Film Critics and Industry Experts
Dilys Powell (British Film Critic)
• "Donat was that rarest of screen actors: one who could combine subtlety with magnetism. He didn’t need to shout to be heard."
o (Powell praised his ability to use restraint in an era when many actors relied on theatrical grandiosity.)
Pauline Kael (Renowned American Film Critic)
• "There was an elegance about Donat that was effortless, never imposed. He could play heroes without needing to prove himself."
o (Kael recognized his ability to play heroic roles without arrogance or unnecessary dramatics.)
The Times (Obituary, 1958)
• "He was a gentleman of the screen, a performer whose dignity and grace remained untouched by the excesses of the industry."
o (His obituary in The Times celebrated his refinement both as an actor and as a person.)
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Modern Recognition and Legacy
British Film Institute (BFI) Tribute
• "Donat brought an emotional intelligence to British cinema that was rare in his time. His performances, particularly in The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips, remain touchstones for actors today."
Sir Michael Redgrave (British Actor, Peer of Donat’s Era)
• "He was an actor’s actor. Someone who believed in the power of words and the importance of restraint."
Peter O’Toole (Actor, Inspired by Donat)
• "Watching Goodbye, Mr. Chips as a boy, I understood for the first time how an actor could move people without grandstanding."
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Final Thoughts
Donat was universally respected for his acting talent, his grace and humility, and his ability to balance intellect with emotion. Many admired him not just for his work on screen but also for his gentle nature and refusal to conform to Hollywood’s excesses. His legacy continues to inspire actors who seek subtlety, dignity, and sincerity in their craft.
Robert Donat Movies Overview
1932
Men of Tomorrow
Donat's film debut, this British drama follows the challenges faced by a university professor and his ambitious wife as they struggle with differing career aspirations.
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1933
That Night in London (aka Over Night)
A crime thriller in which Donat plays a detective investigating a high-stakes robbery in the heart of London.
The Private Life of Henry VIII
A historical drama focusing on the turbulent marriages of King Henry VIII, played by Charles Laughton. Donat plays Thomas Culpeper, a courtier entangled in a doomed romance with Catherine Howard.
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1934
The Count of Monte Cristo
Donat stars as Edmond Dantès, a man falsely imprisoned who escapes to seek revenge against those who betrayed him. This swashbuckling adventure cemented his leading-man status.
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1935
The 39 Steps
One of Donat’s most iconic films, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. He plays Richard Hannay, a man falsely accused of murder who must evade the police while uncovering a spy conspiracy.
The Ghost Goes West
A whimsical comedy about a Scottish ghost (played by Donat) whose castle is transported to America, leading to humorous culture clashes.
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1936
The Magic Box (filmed in the 1940s but released later)
A biographical drama about William Friese-Greene, an early cinema pioneer, showcasing Donat’s ability to portray real-life historical figures.
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1937
Knight Without Armour
A romance-adventure film set during the Russian Revolution. Donat plays a British spy who falls in love with a Russian aristocrat (Marlene Dietrich) as they flee the chaos of war.
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1938
The Citadel
A gripping drama in which Donat plays a young doctor who becomes disillusioned with the medical profession’s corruption, leading him to a moral crisis.
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1939
Goodbye, Mr. Chips
His most celebrated role, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor. He portrays Mr. Chipping, a shy schoolteacher who transforms over decades into a beloved institution at a boys' school.
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1940
The Young Mr. Pitt
A historical drama about William Pitt the Younger, who became Britain’s youngest Prime Minister during the Napoleonic Wars. Donat’s performance as the determined and principled leader was widely praised.
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1943
The Adventures of Tartu
A thrilling World War II spy film in which Donat plays a British agent who infiltrates Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia to sabotage a chemical weapons factory.
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1945
Perfect Strangers (aka Vacation from Marriage)
A romantic drama about a couple whose wartime experiences change them so drastically that they must rediscover each other when reunited.
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1948
The Winslow Boy
A powerful courtroom drama in which Donat plays Sir Robert Morton, a barrister who defends a young boy falsely accused of theft, testing Britain’s justice system.
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1951
The Magic Box
A posthumous release featuring Donat as William Friese-Greene, a pioneering filmmaker whose contributions to cinema were overshadowed by financial struggles.
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1958
The Inn of the Sixth Happiness
His final film. He plays a wise, elderly Mandarin in this epic about a British missionary (Ingrid Bergman) bringing Christianity to China. Despite his failing health, Donat’s performance was deeply moving.