Edmund Gwenn

Edmund Gwenn (real name Edmund John Kellaway), born on 26th September 1877, was an English actor greatly appreciated for his role as Kris Kringle in the Christmas film Miracle on 34th Street (1947), for which he received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and a Golden Globe Award. Gwenn's acting transitioned across film and stage. In the West End and Broadway, he associated with works by esteemed playwrights, such as Bernard Shaw, John Galsworthy and J. B. Priestley. Post Second World War Gwenn went ahead to have a successful career in Hollywood and Broadway. His theatrical journey began in 1895 and had an impressive span until 1959. Apart from his film career, he lent his talent to the stage as well, often performing in a range of works from modern playwrights. His life off-stage was just as captivating, having been married to Minnie Terry in 1901 and enduring the horrors of the World War II bombings that completely destroyed his London home. His dedication to acting remained strong until his death on 6th September 1959.