Who Is Robert Newton? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Robert Newton, born on June 1, 1905, was an English actor renowned for his dynamic roles in film and television. Despite his untimely passing in 1956, his legacy endures. In 2025, Newton would have been 120 years old. His performances, particularly in classic films such as Treasure Island and Oliver Twist, have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His career was characterized by a distinctive voice and formidable screen presence, which contributed to the popularity of the characters he portrayed.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1905 |
| Age | 50 Years |
| Birth Place | Shaftesbury, Dorset, England |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Country | England |
| Date of death | 25 March, 1956 |
| Died Place | Beverly Hills, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Robert Newton's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Robert Newton was known for his unique body proportions, standing at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall. His weight fluctuated throughout his career, particularly owing to his roles that required him to inhabit various physical forms. While exact figures can vary, it is estimated that he weighed around 170 lbs (77 kg) during his prime years. His striking features and robust build contributed to his memorable performances on screen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
In terms of relationship status, Robert Newton was known to have married twice. His first marriage was to actress Betty Henderson, which ended in divorce. Later, he married Mary Scott in 1941, and they remained together until his passing. While there isn’t much public knowledge about any romantic interests post-marriage due to the era’s privacy norms, Newton’s commitment to his family and wife was well-documented, showcasing a deep bond with his spouse.
He then made a series of films with Hollywood stars and/or financing: Kiss the Blood Off My Hands (1948), a film noir with Joan Fontaine and Burt Lancaster; Obsession (1949), a thriller directed by Edward Dmytryk, playing a cuckolded husband who exacts revenge on his wife.
He played Long John Silver in Walt Disney's version of Treasure Island (1950), shot in the UK, with Bobby Driscoll and directed by Byron Haskin. Less well known is Waterfront (1950) in which Richard Burton appeared in his third film.
Net Worth and Salary
Robert Newton's successful career as an actor allowed him to achieve considerable financial success during his lifetime. At the time of his death in 1956, his net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, which is roughly equivalent to around $10 million today when adjusted for inflation. Throughout his career, Newton's salary varied depending on the film and production, contributing to his growing financial portfolio.
Career, Business, and Investments
Newton's career was primarily focused on acting, where he gained recognition for his roles in classic films. His career began in theatre, transitioning to films in the 1940s. He became widely known for playing larger-than-life characters and leading roles in British cinema. Beyond acting, Newton was involved in various charitable ventures and artistic endeavors, although there’s little documentation on extensive business investments. His choice of roles often reflected his passion for storytelling and character development, making him a beloved figure in the industry.
Beginning his career in theatre in the 1920s, Newton appeared in numerous plays in the West End, including Bitter Sweet by Noël Coward. In 1939 he was Horatio in Hamlet at the Old Vic theatre opposite Laurence Olivier's Prince Hamlet.
After serving in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, he had his major break on screen playing the lead in This Happy Breed (1944) and starring in Olivier's version of Henry V (1944). These appearances saw British exhibitors vote him the 10th most popular British film star of 1944.
Social Network
Despite living in an era before the widespread use of social media, Robert Newton has gained posthumous recognition through platforms dedicated to classic cinema. Enthusiasts and historians share insights about his work on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Fans of classic films often create fan pages and groups, facilitating discussions about his iconic performances and contributions to film history.
Newton is best remembered for his portrayal of the feverish-eyed Long John Silver in the 1950 RKO-Disney British adaptation of Treasure Island, the film that became the standard for screen portrayals of historical pirates.
He starred as Edward Teach (Blackbeard) in Blackbeard the Pirate in 1952 and Long John Silver again in the 1954 film of the same title, which spawned a miniseries in the mid-1950s.
Born in Dorset in the West Country of England and growing up in Cornwall near Land's End, his exaggeration of his West Country accent is credited with popularising the stereotypical "pirate speech". Newton has become the "patron saint" of the annual International Talk Like a Pirate Day.
Education
Robert Newton was primarily trained in theatrical arts. While specific details about his formal education are scarce, it’s well-known that he honed his craft on stage, allowing him to develop the skills that would make him a household name. His early exposure to acting environments helped him to cultivate an extraordinary talent, leading to his eventual stardom in film and theatre.
In conclusion, Robert Newton remains a significant figure in classic cinema, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of talent. His unique contributions to film, along with his personal life and enduring talent, offer rich insights for fans and new audiences alike in 2025.
He lived with his family in Lamorna near Penzance, Cornwall, from 1912 to 1918. He attended St. Petroc's preparatory school in Bude, where he won a shooting competition in 1916, and then Exeter School and St. Bartholomew's School in Newbury, Berkshire.
