Actor
Sir Derek Jacobi is a legendary British classical actor whose interpretations of Shakespeare's most demanding roles have defined generations of English theatre, from his revolutionary Hamlet to his commanding presence at the National Theatre and RSC.
Defining moments and milestones
After emerging from Cambridge's celebrated Footlights in the early 1960s, Jacobi secured his place in theatrical history with a landmark Hamlet at the National Theatre, establishing himself as the preeminent interpreter of Shakespeare's most psychologically complex roles. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has commanded the stages of the RSC, the West End, and the Old Vic, while simultaneously achieving iconic status in television through his unforgettable turn as Claudius in I, Claudius. His mastery of classical text, combined with a commanding stage presence and vocal precision, has secured his position as one of the last great inheritors of the Gielgud-Olivier legacy.
Landmark performance as Hamlet at the National Theatre (1960s), which established him as the preeminent interpreter of Shakespeare's most demanding roles; later knighted for services to drama
Leyton County High School; St. John's College, Cambridge (where he was involved with the Footlights)
Recordings featuring Derek Jacobi in the Society index
Additional recordings will appear here as the catalog expands.