Kenneth Branagh

Sir Kenneth Charles Branagh, born on December 10, 1960, in Belfast and raised in Reading, Berkshire, is a distinguished British actor and director. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), he served as its president from 2015 to 2024. Branagh's illustrious career has garnered him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, four BAFTAs, two Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and an Olivier Award. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was knighted in 2012 and received the Freedom of the City of Belfast in 2018. In 2020, The Irish Times ranked him among Ireland's top film actors.

Branagh is celebrated for his film adaptations of Shakespearean works, such as *Henry V* (1989), for which he received nominations for both Best Actor and Best Director, *Hamlet* (1996), and *Much Ado About Nothing* (1993). His semi-autobiographical film *Belfast* (2021) earned him nominations for Best Picture and Director, winning Best Original Screenplay. His directorial portfolio also includes *Thor* (2011) and *Cinderella* (2015).

In addition to his directing achievements, Branagh has portrayed Hercule Poirot in the film series starting in 2017 and has appeared in notable films such as *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* (2002) and *Dunkirk* (2017). His television work includes acclaimed series like *Wallander* (2008–2016) and the HBO film *Conspiracy* (2001), which won him significant recognition.