Black Sheep: The Authorized Biography of Nicol Williamson

Nicol Williamson was one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation. He starred in over 60 films and television shows, and he won numerous awards, including a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe Award. Williamson was known for his intense performances and his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters. He was also a controversial figure, and his personal life was often in the headlines.

This authorized biography delves into the complex life of Nicol Williamson, from his early years in Scotland to his success in Hollywood and his battles with addiction. The book is based on interviews with Williamson's family, friends, and colleagues, and it provides a fascinating portrait of a troubled genius.

Black Sheep: The Authorised Biography of Nicol Williamson

by Gabriel Hershman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4605 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Early Life

Nicol Williamson was born on September 14, 1936, in Hamilton, Scotland. His father was a steelworker, and his mother was a housewife. Williamson had a difficult childhood. His parents divorced when he was young, and he was raised by his grandparents. Williamson was a gifted student, but he was also a rebel. He was expelled from school at the age of 15, and he spent the next few years working as a laborer.

In 1957, Williamson joined the Royal Air Force. He served for two years, and he was then discharged with a medical condition. Williamson returned to Scotland and began working as an actor. He studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, and he made his professional debut in 1961.

Career

Williamson's career took off in the early 1960s. He starred in a number of successful films, including "The Entertainer" (1960),"This Sporting Life" (1963),and "Hamlet" (1969). Williamson also starred in a number of television shows, including "Armchair Theatre" (1964-1968) and "The Forsyte Saga" (1967).

Williamson was known for his intense performances and his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters. He was often cast as outsiders and rebels, and he brought a raw energy to his roles. Williamson was also a controversial figure, and his personal life was often in the headlines.

In the 1970s, Williamson's career began to decline. He struggled with addiction, and he was often difficult to work with. Williamson also made a number of controversial statements, which alienated some of his fans.

In the 1980s, Williamson's career began to revive. He starred in a number of successful films, including "Excalibur" (1981),"The Bounty" (1984),and "The Mission" (1986). Williamson also starred in a number of television shows, including "Brideshead Revisited" (1981) and "The Singing Detective" (1986).

In the 1990s, Williamson continued to work steadily. He starred in a number of films, including "Sleepers" (1996),"The Crucible" (1996),and "The Wings of the Dove" (1997). Williamson also starred in a number of television shows, including "Hornblower" (1998-2003) and "The Forsyte Saga" (2002).

Williamson died on February 16, 2011, at the age of 74. He was survived by his wife, Jill Townsend, and his two children.

Personal Life

Williamson was married twice. His first marriage, to actress Sally Thomsett, lasted from 1960 to 1970. His second marriage, to actress Jill Townsend, lasted from 1975 until his death in 2011.

Williamson had a number of relationships outside of his marriages. He had affairs with actresses Julie Christie, Jane Fonda, and Vanessa Redgrave. Williamson also had a relationship with writer Jill Craigie.

Williamson was a controversial figure, and his personal life was often in the headlines. He was known for his heavy drinking and drug use, and he was often involved in fights. Williamson also made a number of controversial statements, which alienated some of his fans.

In 1977, Williamson was arrested for possession of cocaine. He was sentenced to probation. In 1982, Williamson was arrested for drunk driving. He was sentenced to 10 days in jail.

Williamson's personal problems continued throughout his life. He struggled with addiction, and he was often difficult to work with. Williamson also made a number of controversial statements, which alienated some of his fans.

Despite his personal problems, Williamson was a brilliant actor. He starred in over 60 films and television shows, and he won numerous awards. Williamson was known for his intense performances and his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters. He was a complex and troubled man, but he was also a gifted artist.

Legacy

Williamson is remembered as one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation. He starred in over 60 films and television shows, and he won numerous awards. Williamson was known for his intense performances and his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters. He was also a controversial figure, and his personal life was often in the headlines.

Williamson's legacy is complex. He was a brilliant actor, but he was also a troubled man. He struggled with addiction, and he was often difficult to work with. Williamson also made a number of controversial statements, which alienated some of his fans.

Despite his personal problems, Williamson was a gifted artist. His performances were often unforgettable, and he left a lasting impression on the world of cinema. Williamson is a reminder that even the most talented people can struggle with personal demons. He is also a reminder that even the most troubled people can produce great art.

Nicol Williamson was a complex and troubled man, but he was also a brilliant actor. His performances were often unforgettable, and he left a lasting impression on the world of cinema. Williamson is a reminder that even the most talented people can struggle with personal demons. He is also a reminder that even the most troubled people can produce great art.

Black Sheep: The Authorised Biography of Nicol Williamson

by Gabriel Hershman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4605 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE