James Robertson Justice was born on June 15, 1907, in England. A burly, bearded man with a booming voice, he would become famous for his supporting roles in many of England's best-known films. But before his acting career took off, Justice led a fascinating life filled with diverse experiences.
Justice was a true Renaissance man. He studied geology, mined for gold, played professional hockey and rugby, and raced cars. His thirst for knowledge led him to earn several Ph.D's and learn possibly 20 languages.
Justice's acting career was as diverse as his life experiences. He played some of England's most iconic historical figures, such as Henry VIII of England in The Sword and the Rose and Ahab in the 1960 film Moby Dick. He also portrayed Sir Lancelot Spratt in the popular 'Doctor' film series.
Coming from an Irish background, Justice was married twice during his lifetime, including a marriage to the aristocratic movie star Irene von Meyendorff.
Before pursuing acting full-time, Justice worked as a reporter for Reuters UK, where he crossed paths with Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. This early experience in journalism may have influenced his later career in the entertainment industry.
James Robertson Justice's legacy lives on through his memorable performances on screen and his larger-than-life persona. His diverse background and unique talents set him apart in the world of entertainment, making him a true icon in British cinema.