Award-winning British actor who became known for his television roles in "Yes Minister" and "Yes, Prime Minister."
He was born in England and raised in South Africa, and he studied briefly at the University of Cape Town before beginning his acting career.
His numerous acting awards include five BAFTAS for his television work in "Yes, Prime Minister" and "The Fragile Heart," and an Academy Award nomination for his film role in "The Madness of King George." He was also a recipient of Tony and Olivier Awards for his theatrical work.
He was the long-term partner of Trevor Bentham. Hawthorne's posthumously-published autobiography, "Straight Face," details his nearly lifelong struggle to hide his homosexuality.
He won a 1991 Tony Award for his performance in william Nicholson's play, "Shadowlands."
