Peter Ustinov, a polyglot performer and screenwriter, claimed two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor during his extensive career. Born in 1921 in the London Borough of Camden, he balanced his work in front of the camera with significant humanitarian commitments, serving as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and influencing academic life through his long-standing chancellorship at Durham University.
Early Development and War Service
Educated at Westminster School, Ustinov began his stage training at the London Theatre Studio. His early career included an appearance at the Barn Theatre in 1938. During the Second World War, he served as a private in the British Army. His military service included acting as a batman to David Niven and contributing to propaganda films such as One of Our Aircraft Is Missing in 1942.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Film and Theatrical Accomplishments
Ustinov achieved recognition for his roles in Quo Vadis and Spartacus, the latter earning him an Academy Award. His work as a playwright yielded successes like The Love of Four Colonels and Romanoff and Juliet. Beyond acting, he wrote and directed features including The Way Ahead and Hot Millions. He also voiced characters for Disney in the 1973 film Robin Hood and appeared as Hercule Poirot in six separate productions.
Humanitarianism and Academic Positions
Beyond his entertainment work, Ustinov held numerous public and scholarly roles. He was appointed Chancellor of Durham University, serving from 1992 until 2004. A proponent of humanism, he was a member of the Académie des beaux-arts and the Club of Budapest. His service as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador reflected his commitment to international advocacy. He held an honorary doctorate from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Fast facts
- Born: 1921, London Borough of Camden
- Died: 2004, Genolier
- Education: Westminster School
- Languages spoken: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Turkish, Modern Greek
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor: 1965
- Burial place: Cimetière de Bursins
- Chancellor of Durham University: 1992-2004
- Religious belief: Humanism
Questions readers ask
Which film roles earned Ustinov an Academy Award?
He received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performances in Spartacus (1960) and Topkapi (1964).
Did Ustinov pursue interests outside of acting?
Yes, he was a writer, playwright, screenwriter, and singer, while also serving as a diplomat and humanitarian, notably as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Achievements
- Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany — 1984
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire — 1975
- Order of Karl Valentin — 1981
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor — 1965
- Knight of the Order of the Southern Cross
- Worked as actor, humanitarian and writer
