Geraldine James facts for kids

Geraldine James (born July 6, 1950) is a talented English actress who has appeared in movies, television shows, and stage plays. You might know her as the stern but caring Marilla Cuthbert in the Netflix series Anne with an E or as Queen Mary in the popular 2019 movie Downton Abbey.

Early Life and School Days

Geraldine James was born in Maidenhead, a town in Berkshire, England. Her father was a cardiologist, which is a type of heart doctor. When she was young, her parents divorced.

She went to a boarding school called Downe House School. At school, she felt her last name, James, was too simple. So, for a while, she used the more formal-sounding name Vaughan-Thomas. After finishing school, she decided to follow her passion for acting and studied at the Drama Centre London.

Acting Career

After graduating, James began her acting career in theatre. She spent three years performing in different plays across the country.

Famous Movie Roles

Geraldine James has been in many well-known films. She played a part in the Oscar-winning movie Gandhi (1982). She also appeared in big blockbusters like:

• Sherlock Holmes (2009) and its sequel Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011), where she played Mrs. Hudson.
• Alice in Wonderland (2010), as the character Lady Ascot.
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011).
• 45 Years (2015), a critically acclaimed drama.

Memorable Television Shows

James is also a familiar face on television. One of her first major roles was as Sarah Layton in the 1984 series The Jewel in the Crown. She also starred in the popular 1990s drama Band of Gold.

From 2017 to 2019, she gained a new generation of fans playing Marilla Cuthbert in the Netflix show Anne with an E. Soon after, she played the royal role of Queen Mary in the Downton Abbey movie.

A Surprising Music Collaboration

In 2020, James did something different. She lent her voice to the Finnish symphonic metal band Nightwish. She performed the spoken words on a long track from their album Human. :II: Nature..

Awards and Recognition

Geraldine James's acting has earned her many awards and nominations. In 2004, she was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). This is a special honor given by the Queen for important contributions to the arts and sciences.

The famous theatre director Peter Hall once said that James is one of the greatest English actresses of her time.

Personal Life

James is married to Joseph Blatchley, who is also an actor and director. Together, they have a daughter.

See also

In Spanish: Geraldine James para niños