Sybil Thorndike

Sybil Thorndike was an English actress whose stage career spanned 1904 to 1969. Born in Gainsborough in 1882, she trained as a concert pianist before turning to acting. She began her professional career with Ben Greet's company, touring the United States from 1904 to 1908, and later joined the Old Vic, where she played many Shakespearean roles. Bernard Shaw wrote Saint Joan with her in mind, and she starred in it in 1924, becoming known as Britain's leading tragedienne while also appearing in comedy. Her film work included Major Barbara (1941). She also appeared in Stage Fright (1950). Later she was seen in The Prince and the Showgirl (1957). She was appointed DBE in 1931 and in 1970 received the Order of the Companions of Honour. Her final stage appearances were in 1969 at the theater named for her in Leatherhead, and she died in 1976.