Charles Laughton (1 July 1899 – 15 December 1962) was a British and American actor known for his wide range of roles on stage, film, and television. Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, he first appeared professionally on stage in 1926, quickly rising to fame and receiving critical acclaim for his performances in classical and contemporary plays. In 1927, he met his future wife, Elsa Lanchester, with whom he would live and work until his death. Laughton's work encompassed a wide range of roles, from misfits and monsters to kings, earning him enduring recognition in the film industry. His notable films include The Private Life of Henry VIII, Mutiny on the Bounty, Witness for the Prosecution and The Night of the Hunter. During his later years, he also ventured into stage directing, with notable productions including The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial and Don Juan in Hell. Laughton's unique acting style and strong presence on the screen left a profound impact on many future actors, most notably Daniel Day-Lewis, who cited him as a great influence on his own acting career.