Early Life
Emma Thompson was born on April 15, 1959, in London, England. She was raised in a creative and artistic family, with her father being a theatre director and her mother being an actress. Growing up, Thompson was exposed to the world of performing arts and developed a passion for acting at a young age.
Education
Thompson attended Newnham College, where she became the first female member of the sketch comedy troupe Footlights. She quickly rose through the ranks and eventually became the vice president of the group. Thompson's talent and dedication led her to co-direct the first all-female revue put on by the troupe, titled Women's Hour. This experience further fueled her passion for acting and comedy.
Acting Career
Thompson's acting career began to take off in the 1980s, with notable roles in films such as Dead Again and Much Ado About Nothing. However, it was her role as Margaret Schlegel in the 1992 film Howards End that catapulted her to stardom. Thompson's performance in the film earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the industry.
Academy Awards
Thompson continued to showcase her talent and versatility as an actress, winning another Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for the 1995 film Sense and Sensibility, which she also starred in. Her ability to seamlessly transition between acting and screenwriting set her apart in Hollywood and earned her critical acclaim.
Notable Films
Thompson's impressive filmography includes a wide range of genres and characters. From her roles in Nanny McPhee and Love Actually to her portrayal of Professor Sybill Trelawney in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Thompson consistently delivers memorable performances that captivate audiences. She also took on the iconic role of Mrs. Potts in the 2017 feature Beauty and the Beast and played Agatha Trunchbull in Matilda: The Musical, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Personal Life
Thompson's personal life has also been a topic of interest. She was married to her Much Ado About Nothing co-star Kenneth Branagh from 1989 to 1995. In 2003, she married actor Greg Wise, with whom she shares two children, a son named Tindyebwa and a daughter named Gaia. Thompson's dedication to her family and her craft is evident in everything she does.
Legacy
Throughout her career, Emma Thompson has solidified her status as a talented and respected actress in Hollywood. Her ability to seamlessly transition between acting, screenwriting, and comedy has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base. Thompson's legacy as a trailblazer in the industry continues to inspire aspiring actors and writers around the world.