Although it is almost thirty years since Jeremy Brett’s death at the age of 61, the handsome and talented British character actor is fondly remembered. He remains adored by a legion of fans. I include myself amongst those ranks. I fell in love with Brett’s portrayal of Sherlock Holmes when I was ten years old, and he has captivated me ever since. That presence, those emerald eyes, that diction!
Inescapably, Brett is most celebrated for his iconic portrayal of the world’s greatest detective in the acclaimed Granada Television series that ran from 1984 to 1994. His characterisation is widely regarded as amongst the finest and most definitive interpretations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective. I would go further and argue that he is the best Sherlock Holmes by at least a country mile, but I admit my bias as a die-hard Jeremy Brett fan. It is almost time to put on ‘The Blue Carbuncle’, the festive episode of ‘Sherlock Holmes’ that I watch every Christmas.
While the role of Sherlock Holmes is unquestionably his most renowned, Brett’s exceptional talent extended to other memorable performances throughout his career. His extensive stage work saw him perform in West End theatres alongside the greatest acting talent Britain has ever produced. Although theatre is ephemeral, we can thankfully still view his TV and film work that came before his career-defining role as Holmes.
If you have the opportunity, celebrate his life and legacy by watching him play:
Freddie Eynsford-Hill in the big screen adaptation of the musical ‘My Fair Lady‘ (1964). Brett’s performance as the clueless but charming lovestruck young man showcased his versatility as an actor. It was not his first time sharing the screen with Audrey Hepburn.
Nikolai Rostov in ‘War and Peace‘ (1956). Eight years before ‘My Fair Lady’, Brett performed opposite movie legend Audrey Hepburn in an adaptation of Tolstoy’s epic novel in one of his first screen roles.
D’Artagnan in ‘The Three Musketeers‘ (1966). Brett’s portrayal of the adventurous and heroic character for a TV adaptation highlighted his ability to bring classic literary figures to life early in his career.
William Pitt the Younger in ‘Number 10‘ (1983). There was something of the irascibility that he later developed in his characterisation of Holmes that he brought to the role of the UK’s youngest Prime Minister in the remarkable mini-series. Working against a period wig and excessive make-up, Brett movingly brings to life the mercurial politician.
Edward Ashburnham in ‘The Good Soldier‘ (1981). A decent adaptation of Ford Madox Ford’s acclaimed novel, Brett plays a philandering husband.
Bassanio in ‘The Merchant of Venice‘ (1973). A TV version of the National Theatre’s acclaimed stage production that also featured Laurence Olivier as Shylock and Joan Plowright as Portia. Brett is perfectly at home performing with the creme de la creme of British theatrical royalty and this is one stage role that was thankfully captured for posterity.
Murry in ‘A Picture of Katherine Mansfield‘ (1973). Brett plays the male lead opposite Vanessa Redgrave in the title part.
Jeremy Brett’s legacy is primarily defined by his exceptional portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, but the above examples showcase the diverse range of roles he took on during his career. Brett was a remarkable talent and had versatility as an actor. Though as he admitted, he was seldom cast in anything contemporary. He belonged to a more swashbuckling, romantic age. Although he will always be much-missed, we’re lucky to still enjoy his TV and film legacy. Here’s to you at the ninetieth anniversary of your birth, Jeremy!
