Errol Flynn first appeared on screen in the 1933 film In the Wake of the Bounty as Fletcher Christian. Born in 1909 in Battery Point, Tasmania, his path to prominence moved through training in British repertory theatre before he secured a contract with Warner Bros. in Los Angeles, ultimately establishing himself as a prolific leading man in international cinema.
Early Development and Education
Born at the Queen Alexandra Hospital, Flynn was the son of Theodore Thomson Flynn, a professor of marine biology. His education involved attendance at multiple institutions, including The Hutchins School and Sydney Church of England Grammar School. After leaving formal education, he spent time in Papua New Guinea working in tobacco planting and gold mining before pursuing a career as a professional performer.
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Flynn moved to Britain in 1933, where he began as an extra before joining the Northampton Repertory Company. He spent seven months refining his skills at the Royal Theatre. Following appearances at the 1934 Malvern Festival and in West End productions, he was cast in the Warner Bros. film Murder at Monte Carlo. This performance led directly to an invitation to work for the studio in the United States.
Stardom at Warner Bros.
Upon arriving in California, Flynn secured roles in films such as The Case of the Curious Bride and Don't Bet on Blondes. His career accelerated significantly with the lead role in the 1935 production Captain Blood. This film initiated a successful professional partnership with Olivia de Havilland. Over the following decade, he starred in numerous features including The Adventures of Robin Hood and Westerns like Dodge City, Santa Fe Trail, and San Antonio.
Professional Scope and Legacy
Throughout his career, Flynn operated as an actor, screenwriter, and film director. His work spanned various genres, from historical swashbucklers to period dramas such as The Charge of the Light Brigade. Following his death in 1959 in Vancouver, his contributions to the film and television industries were acknowledged in 1960 with two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He remains buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
Fast facts
- Born: 1909, Battery Point
- Died: 1959, Vancouver
- Primary Employer: Warner Bros. Entertainment
- Education: The Hutchins School; SHORE
- Citizenship: Australia; United States
- Notable Role: Robin Hood, The Adventures of Robin Hood
- Burial Site: Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Questions readers ask
Was Errol Flynn related to Fletcher Christian?
While Flynn claimed to be a descendant of the mutineer, historical evidence indicates he was not.
How many films did Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland make together?
The pair collaborated on eight films over a period of six years.
Achievements
- Worked as actor, character actor and screenwriter
