Jenny Agutter is a renowned British actress known for her extensive work in film, television, and theater. Born on December 20, 1950, in West Bromwich, Staffordshire (now West Midlands), England, she has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for over five decades. Agutter's career spans a wide range of genres, from drama and comedy to science fiction and historical pieces. Her versatility as an actress has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.
One aspect of Jenny Agutter's career that has garnered significant attention is her early life and rise to fame. Agutter began her acting career at a young age, making her screen debut in the 1968 film "The Innocents." Her breakthrough role came in 1970 with the television series "The Railway Children," where she played the lead role of Roberta Badger. This role catapulted her to fame and established her as a talented young actress.
Early Life and Career
Jenny Agutter was born to parents Stafford Agutter and Margaret (née Roberts). Her father was an engineer, and the family moved frequently during her childhood. Agutter's early education took place at various schools, including the prestigious Lady Eleanor Holles School in London. Her interest in acting developed at an early age, and she began taking classes at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.
Breakthrough and Notable Roles
Agutter's breakthrough role in "The Railway Children" led to numerous other television and film appearances. In 1977, she starred in the science fiction film "Empire of the Sun," directed by Steven Spielberg. Her performance as Mrs. Rawley earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role marked a significant turning point in her career, as it showcased her ability to take on complex and diverse characters.
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | The Innocents | Uncredited |
| 1970 | The Railway Children | Roberta Badger |
| 1977 | Empire of the Sun | Mrs. Rawley |
Personal Life and Later Career
In her personal life, Agutter has been married to James Cromwell since 2014, and the couple has one daughter, Tamsin. Agutter has been an advocate for various charitable causes, including cancer research and animal welfare.
As for her later career, Agutter has continued to work in film and television, taking on a range of roles. In 2008, she appeared in the BBC series "The Young Victoria," and in 2012, she starred in the ITV drama "Mr. Selfridge." Her most recent notable role was in the 2019 BBC series "The Durrells," where she played the character of Lilian Durrell.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Agutter has received numerous awards and nominations. In 1977, she won the BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress for her role in "The Railway Children." She has also been recognized for her work in "Empire of the Sun" and "The Durrells."
- BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress (1977) for "The Railway Children"
- BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress (1977) for "Empire of the Sun"
- Various nominations for her roles in "The Durrells" and other productions
What was Jenny Agutter’s breakthrough role?
+Jenny Agutter’s breakthrough role was in the 1970 television series “The Railway Children,” where she played the lead role of Roberta Badger.
What notable film did Jenny Agutter star in under Steven Spielberg?
+Jenny Agutter starred in the 1977 film “Empire of the Sun,” directed by Steven Spielberg, where she played the role of Mrs. Rawley.
Has Jenny Agutter received any major awards?
+Yes, Jenny Agutter has received several awards, including the BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress in 1977 for her role in “The Railway Children” and a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Empire of the Sun.”
