Brian Bedford
Birth Place: Morey, ENGLAND
Latest News on Brian Bedford:
PRIVATE LIVES by Noël Coward is Coming to Broadway in 2026-2027 (Mar 24, 2025)
Review: Farcical Fun Behind Every Door in Lyric Stage Boston's Boisterous NOISES OFF (Nov 27, 2024)
Mirvish Productions to Dim the Marquee Lights of The Royal Alexandra Theatre to Honor Maggie Smith (Sep 27, 2024)
PRIVATE LIVES by Noël Coward is Coming to Broadway in 2026-2027 (Mar 24, 2025)
Review: Farcical Fun Behind Every Door in Lyric Stage Boston's Boisterous NOISES OFF (Nov 27, 2024)
Mirvish Productions to Dim the Marquee Lights of The Royal Alexandra Theatre to Honor Maggie Smith (Sep 27, 2024)
BIO
Brian Bedford was a British actor who was born on February 16, 1935, in Morley, Yorkshire, England. He was known for his work on stage, television, and film. Bedford began his career in the theater in England, where he appeared in several productions in the West End. He later moved to Canada, where he became a citizen and continued his career in theater.
Bedford made his Broadway debut in 1959 in the play "Five Finger Exercise." He received critical acclaim for his performance and went on to appear in several other Broadway productions, including "The Private Ear" and "The Public Eye," "The School for Scandal," and "Jumpers." In 1971, he won a Tony Award for his performance in "The School for Scandal."
In addition to his work on stage, Bedford also appeared in several films and television shows. He had a recurring role on the television series "Nixon's the One" and appeared in the films "Grand Prix" and "Nixon." He also provided the voice for the character of Robin Hood in the Disney animated film of the same name.
Despite his success in film and television, Bedford remained committed to the theater throughout his career. He continued to appear in productions in Canada and the United States, including the Broadway revival of "The Misanthrope" in 1999 and the Broadway production of "The Importance of Being Earnest" in 2011. He also directed several productions, including "The Misanthrope" and "The School for Scandal."
Bedford was known for his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring depth and nuance to his performances. He was particularly celebrated for his work in classical theater, and he was regarded as one of the finest Shakespearean actors of his generation. He was also known for his wit and humor, and he was a beloved figure in the theater community.
Bedford's last Broadway appearance was in the 2011 production of "The Importance of Being Earnest," in which he played the role of Lady Bracknell. The production was a critical and commercial success, and Bedford's performance was widely praised. He continued to work in the theater until his death on January 13, 2016, at the age of 80.
Photos
STAGE CREDITS
Productions
Writing
Movies
Miracle in Soho
[ 1957 ] Johnny
[ 1957 ] Johnny
The Angry Silence
[ 1960 ] Eddie Barrett
[ 1960 ] Eddie Barrett
Number Six
[ 1962 ] Jimmy Gale
[ 1962 ] Jimmy Gale
The Punch and Judy Man
[ 1963 ] 1st. Escort
[ 1963 ] 1st. Escort
The Pad (and How to Use It)
[ 1966 ] Bob Handman
[ 1966 ] Bob Handman
Grand Prix
[ 1966 ] Scott Stoddard
[ 1966 ] Scott Stoddard
Robin Hood
[ 1973 ] Robin Hood - A Fox
[ 1973 ] Robin Hood - A Fox
Nixon
[ 1995 ] Clyde Tolson
[ 1995 ] Clyde Tolson
TV Shows
The Equalizer
Harold Ross, Emil Kostov, Paul Coble
Harold Ross, Emil Kostov, Paul Coble
Awards and Nominations
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2011 - Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play
Brian Bedford, The Importance of Being Earnest
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2011 - Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play
Brian Bedford, The Importance of Being Earnest
Tony Awards - 2011 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford, The Importance of Being Earnest
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Actor in a Play
Brian Bedford, Tartuffe
Tony Awards - 2003 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford, Tartuffe
Tony Awards - 1997 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford, London Assurance
Tony Awards - 1995 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford , The Moliere Comedies
Tony Awards - 1994 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford , Timon of Athens
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1993 - Outstanding Actor - Play
Brian Bedford, Timon of Athens
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1992 - Outstanding Actor - Play
Brian Bedford, Two Shakespearean Actors
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1992 - Best Actor - Play
Brian Bedford, Two Shakespearean Actors
Tony Awards - 1992 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford, Two Shakespearean Actors
Helen Hayes Awards - 1989 - Outstanding Lead Actor, Resident Production
Brian BedfordMerchant of Venice
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1974 - Outstanding Performance
Brian Bedford, Jumpers
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1971 - Outstanding Performance
Brian Bedford, The School for Wives
winner
Tony Awards - 1971 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Brian Bedford, The School for Wives
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1970 - Outstanding Performance
Brian Bedford, Private Lives
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1970 - Best Performance
Brian Bedford, Private Lives
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1969 - Outstanding Performance
Brian Bedford, The Misanthrope
winner
Obie Awards - 1965 - Performance
Brian BedfordThe Knock
Videos
VIDEO: Alan Rickman & More Honored in the 2016 TONY AWARDS In Memoriam
by Caryn Robbins - 2016-06-12 23:17:00
TV Exclusive: Backstage with Richard Ridge - SAG Foundation Conversations Series with Tony Winner Andrea Martin- Part 2!
by Backstage With Richard Ridge - 2013-08-04 09:00:01
TV Exclusive: Backstage with Richard Ridge - SAG Foundation Conversations Series with Tony Winner Andrea Martin- Part 1!
by Backstage With Richard Ridge - 2013-07-27 00:01:02
STAGE TUBE: 2013 Stratford Shakespeare Festival Lineup Announced!
by Kelsey Denette - 2012-07-18 12:54:37
TV: Broadway Beat Goes Inside The 2011 Drama League Awards - Part 2
by Broadway Beat - 2011-05-25 12:03:05
TV: Broadway Beat Goes Inside the 2011 Drama League Awards - Part 1
by Broadway Beat - 2011-05-25 12:02:48
STAGE TUBE: Foster & Donnell Perform 'You're The Top' from ANYTHING GOES!
by Jessica Lewis - 2011-03-25 11:16:41
TV: Broadway Beat Goes Inside THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Opening Night
by Broadway Beat - 2011-01-19 13:41:25
STAGE TUBE: Roundabout Staff Discusses The Importance of Being Earnest
by Gabrielle Sierra - 2010-12-28 14:29:50
STAGE TUBE: Brian Bedford Talks THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
by Jessica Lewis - 2010-12-16 14:07:28
TV: Roundabout Introduces 2011 Winter/Spring Season - Sutton Foster Talks ANYTHING GOES, Donna Murphy on 'PEOPLE' & More!
by Jessica Lewis - 2010-12-16 13:32:11
News
PRIVATE LIVES by Noël Coward is Coming to Broadway in 2026-2027
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 24, 2025
A new production of PRIVATE LIVES by Noël Coward will be presented on Broadway in the 2026-2027 season. Learn more about PRIVATE LIVES and about the upcoming production.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 24, 2025
A new production of PRIVATE LIVES by Noël Coward will be presented on Broadway in the 2026-2027 season. Learn more about PRIVATE LIVES and about the upcoming production.
Review: Farcical Fun Behind Every Door in Lyric Stage Boston's Boisterous NOISES OFF
by R. Scott Reedy - Nov 27, 2024
What did our critic think of NOISES OFF at Lyric Stage Boston?
by R. Scott Reedy - Nov 27, 2024
What did our critic think of NOISES OFF at Lyric Stage Boston?
Mirvish Productions to Dim the Marquee Lights of The Royal Alexandra Theatre to Honor Maggie Smith
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 27, 2024
The marquee lights of The Royal Alexandra Theatre will be dimmed on Tuesday, October 1 to honour Dame Maggie Smith, one of the greatest actors of her generation, who died at the age of 89 in London today. Learn more about Smith's life and career.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 27, 2024
The marquee lights of The Royal Alexandra Theatre will be dimmed on Tuesday, October 1 to honour Dame Maggie Smith, one of the greatest actors of her generation, who died at the age of 89 in London today. Learn more about Smith's life and career.
2011 Tony Nominations Announced! THE BOOK OF MORMON Leads With 14!
by Robert Diamond - Feb 3, 2024
Past Tony winners Anika Noni Rose and Matthew Broderick announced the 2011 Tony Awards nominees live from the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts in New York City.
by Robert Diamond - Feb 3, 2024
Past Tony winners Anika Noni Rose and Matthew Broderick announced the 2011 Tony Awards nominees live from the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts in New York City.
Broadway Actress Sheila Smith Passes Away at 90
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 4, 2023
Broadway actress Sheila Smith passed away on Thursday, November 30 at the age of 90.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 4, 2023
Broadway actress Sheila Smith passed away on Thursday, November 30 at the age of 90.
Lucy Peacock Will Receive Stratford Festival's Legacy Award
by Stephi Wild - Sep 28, 2023
The Stratford Festival is honouring Lucy Peacock with this year's Legacy Award. The gala, hosted by Sheila McCarthy, will be held at Toronto's Four Seasons Hotel on Monday, October 2. Learn more about Lucy here!
by Stephi Wild - Sep 28, 2023
The Stratford Festival is honouring Lucy Peacock with this year's Legacy Award. The gala, hosted by Sheila McCarthy, will be held at Toronto's Four Seasons Hotel on Monday, October 2. Learn more about Lucy here!
Stratford Festival Mourns The Loss Of Marti Maraden
by A.A. Cristi - Sep 1, 2023
Stratford Festival has shared news of the death of Marti Maraden, an artistic director, actor and director of rare skill, as well as a beloved colleague and mentor. She died Thursday, August 31, while visiting family in Sweden, having suddenly fallen ill. She was 78 years old.
by A.A. Cristi - Sep 1, 2023
Stratford Festival has shared news of the death of Marti Maraden, an artistic director, actor and director of rare skill, as well as a beloved colleague and mentor. She died Thursday, August 31, while visiting family in Sweden, having suddenly fallen ill. She was 78 years old.
Jeffrey Carlson, Star of TABOO and THE GOAT, Has Passed Away at 48
by Blair Ingenthron - Jul 9, 2023
According to various reports, Jeffrey Carlson, best known for originating the role of Marilyn in TABOO and Billy in Edward Albee's THE GOAT on Broadway, has passed away. He was 48.
by Blair Ingenthron - Jul 9, 2023
According to various reports, Jeffrey Carlson, best known for originating the role of Marilyn in TABOO and Billy in Edward Albee's THE GOAT on Broadway, has passed away. He was 48.
White Heron Theatre Company Opens BLITHE SPIRIT July 10
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 5, 2023
White Heron Theatre Company of Nantucket will open it's first production of the 2023 summer season, Blithe Spirit, by Noël Coward (Present Laughter, Private Lives) and directed by Skip Greer. Greer returns to Nantucket after directing 2017's Outside Mullingar for White Heron.
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 5, 2023
White Heron Theatre Company of Nantucket will open it's first production of the 2023 summer season, Blithe Spirit, by Noël Coward (Present Laughter, Private Lives) and directed by Skip Greer. Greer returns to Nantucket after directing 2017's Outside Mullingar for White Heron.
Review: THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST at Irish Classical Theatre
by Michael Rabice - Jun 9, 2023
It's good to be reminded that there was a time when manners mattered, albeit at the expense of social end economic hierarchy. Oscar Wilde's delightful THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, now playing at Buffalo's Irish Classical Theatre Company , is a gem of a production worthy of it's own notoriety.
by Michael Rabice - Jun 9, 2023
It's good to be reminded that there was a time when manners mattered, albeit at the expense of social end economic hierarchy. Oscar Wilde's delightful THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, now playing at Buffalo's Irish Classical Theatre Company , is a gem of a production worthy of it's own notoriety.
Interview: Juliet Mills - A Lady of the Theatre Plays PRIN at Theatre 40
by Gil Kaan - Apr 9, 2023
Next up at Theatre 40 will be the stage reading of Andrew Davies’s Prin April 28th and 29th. Jules Aaron directs Juliet Mills (as the titular Prin), Maxwell Caulfield, Ivy Khan, Ann Hearn Tobolowsky, Joe Clabby and David Hunt Stafford. Juliet was most gracious to chat with me on her day off from filming Grey’s Anatomy.
by Gil Kaan - Apr 9, 2023
Next up at Theatre 40 will be the stage reading of Andrew Davies’s Prin April 28th and 29th. Jules Aaron directs Juliet Mills (as the titular Prin), Maxwell Caulfield, Ivy Khan, Ann Hearn Tobolowsky, Joe Clabby and David Hunt Stafford. Juliet was most gracious to chat with me on her day off from filming Grey’s Anatomy.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater Marks Shakespeare's Birthday This Month
by Stephi Wild - Apr 6, 2023
As the world commemorates William Shakespeare's 459th birthday this April, Chicago Shakespeare Theater will celebrate the Bard with multiple events throughout the month. The Theater will honor the legacy of Founding Artistic Director Barbara Gaines with the Spirit of Shakespeare Award, which will be presented at a fundraising event at the Theater's home on Navy Pier on Monday, April 24, 2023.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 6, 2023
As the world commemorates William Shakespeare's 459th birthday this April, Chicago Shakespeare Theater will celebrate the Bard with multiple events throughout the month. The Theater will honor the legacy of Founding Artistic Director Barbara Gaines with the Spirit of Shakespeare Award, which will be presented at a fundraising event at the Theater's home on Navy Pier on Monday, April 24, 2023.
Eugene Lee To Join Norm Lewis On A SOLDIER'S PLAY National Tour; Full Cast Announced
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 2, 2022
Veteran actor Eugene Lee will join Norm Lewis to star in the 20-week North American tour of Roundabout's 2020 Tony Award-winning Best Revival of the 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning A Soldier's Play.
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 2, 2022
Veteran actor Eugene Lee will join Norm Lewis to star in the 20-week North American tour of Roundabout's 2020 Tony Award-winning Best Revival of the 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning A Soldier's Play.
How Many Tom Stoppard Plays Have Been Performed on Broadway?
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 2, 2022
Leopoldstadt marks the 19th production of a Tom Stoppard play to open on Broadway since Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead opened 55 years ago. Stoppard has won four Best Play Tony Awards, more than any other playwright in history. What are the 18 other productions of Tom Stoppard plays to open on Broadway? Let's take a look back!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 2, 2022
Leopoldstadt marks the 19th production of a Tom Stoppard play to open on Broadway since Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead opened 55 years ago. Stoppard has won four Best Play Tony Awards, more than any other playwright in history. What are the 18 other productions of Tom Stoppard plays to open on Broadway? Let's take a look back!
Martha Henry Passes Away at 83, Days After Closing Performance of THREE TALL WOMEN
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 21, 2021
The Stratford Festival is overcome with grief at the death of Martha Henry, just 12 days after her final tour-de-force performance in Edward Albee’s Three Tall Women. The grief of her colleagues is matched only by their gratitude for her unparalleled contributions to Canadian theatre.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 21, 2021
The Stratford Festival is overcome with grief at the death of Martha Henry, just 12 days after her final tour-de-force performance in Edward Albee’s Three Tall Women. The grief of her colleagues is matched only by their gratitude for her unparalleled contributions to Canadian theatre.
French Riviera Film Festival 2021 to Honor George Chakiris, Caroline Lagerfelt and Eric Roberts
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 9, 2021
The third annual French Riviera Film Festival, will present a special Lifetime Achievement Award to Oscar-winning actor George Chakiris and Industry Excellence Awards to Caroline Lagerfelt and Eric Roberts, at an exclusive ceremony on July 14 at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, the announcement was made today by festival founders Gotham Chandna and Nicole Goesseringer Muj.
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 9, 2021
The third annual French Riviera Film Festival, will present a special Lifetime Achievement Award to Oscar-winning actor George Chakiris and Industry Excellence Awards to Caroline Lagerfelt and Eric Roberts, at an exclusive ceremony on July 14 at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, the announcement was made today by festival founders Gotham Chandna and Nicole Goesseringer Muj.
French Riviera Film Festival 2021 To Honor George Chakiris, Caroline Lagerfelt And Eric Roberts
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jul 8, 2021
The third annual French Riviera Film Festival will present a special Lifetime Achievement Award to Oscar-winning actor George Chakiris and Industry Excellence Awards to Caroline Lagerfelt and Eric Roberts, at an exclusive ceremony on July 14 at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jul 8, 2021
The third annual French Riviera Film Festival will present a special Lifetime Achievement Award to Oscar-winning actor George Chakiris and Industry Excellence Awards to Caroline Lagerfelt and Eric Roberts, at an exclusive ceremony on July 14 at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel.
BWW Review: THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST: LIVE IN HD at L.A. Theatre Works
by Tracey Paleo - Jul 6, 2021
Brian Bedford originally thought that playing Lady Bracknell in the 2011 Broadway presentation of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST was a rotten idea. Luckily, for us, he changed his mind. Now streaming Live-in-HD until July 31st.
by Tracey Paleo - Jul 6, 2021
Brian Bedford originally thought that playing Lady Bracknell in the 2011 Broadway presentation of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST was a rotten idea. Luckily, for us, he changed his mind. Now streaming Live-in-HD until July 31st.
L.A. Theatre Works Extends THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST: LIVE IN HD Through July 31
by A.A. Cristi - Jun 30, 2021
L.A. Theatre Works has announced the final extension of “The Importance of Being Earnest: Live in HD.”
by A.A. Cristi - Jun 30, 2021
L.A. Theatre Works has announced the final extension of “The Importance of Being Earnest: Live in HD.”
L.A. Theatre Works' Presentation of Broadway's THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST: LIVE IN HD Available to View
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 27, 2021
L.A. Theatre Works is holding over the stream of Roundabout Theatre Company’s critically acclaimed Broadway production of Oscar Wilde’s comedy “The Importance of Being Earnest: Live in HD” for an additional month, through June 30.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 27, 2021
L.A. Theatre Works is holding over the stream of Roundabout Theatre Company’s critically acclaimed Broadway production of Oscar Wilde’s comedy “The Importance of Being Earnest: Live in HD” for an additional month, through June 30.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Brian Bedford been in?
Brian Bedford has appeared on Broadway in 16 shows.
How many West End shows has Brian Bedford been in?
Brian Bedford has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has Brian Bedford been nominated for?
Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play (Drama Desk Awards) for The Importance of Being Earnest , Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for The Importance of Being Earnest, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The Importance of Being Earnest, Outstanding Actor in a Play (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Tartuffe , Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Tartuffe, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for London Assurance, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The Moliere Comedies, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Timon of Athens, Outstanding Actor - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Timon of Athens, Outstanding Actor - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Two Shakespearean Actors, Best Actor - Play (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Two Shakespearean Actors , Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Two Shakespearean Actors, Outstanding Lead Actor, Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Merchant of Venice, Outstanding Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for Jumpers, Outstanding Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for The School for Wives, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The School for Wives, Outstanding Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for Private Lives, Best Performance (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Private Lives, Outstanding Performance (Drama Desk Awards) for The Misanthrope and Performance (Obie Awards) for The Knock.
What awards has Brian Bedford won?
Brian Bedford has won several prestigious awards throughout his career. He received the Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play award from the Drama Desk Awards for The Importance of Being Earnest, as well as the Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for the same production. He won the Outstanding Actor in a Play from the Drama Desk Awards for Timon of Athens and for Two Shakespearean Actors. Bedford earned Outstanding Performance honors from the Drama Desk Awards for Jumpers, The School for Wives, Private Lives, and The Misanthrope. He also won Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play at the Tony Awards for The School for Wives. Additionally, he received the Best Performance award from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Private Lives and was honored with a Performance award at the Obie Awards for The Knock.
How many shows has Brian Bedford written?
Brian Bedford has written 1 shows including The Lunatic, The Lover & The Poet (Creator).
Videos