About
Geoffrey Rush is a highly esteemed Australian actor celebrated for his versatile and often eccentric roles on both stage and screen. He has achieved the rare Triple Crown of Acting, having won an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. Rush is also recognized with three BAFTA Awards and two Golden Globe Awards, highlighting his exceptional talent. He is the founding president of the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts and was named the 2012 Australian of the Year.
Career Timeline
Shine Oscar Win
Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of pianist David Helfgott in 'Shine.' This breakout role at age 45 launched his international film career.
Shakespeare in Love Success
Starred in 'Shakespeare in Love,' which won Best Picture and earned him an Oscar nomination. This cemented his status as a sought-after character actor in major productions.
Tony Award Win
Won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for 'Exit the King,' completing two-thirds of the Triple Crown of Acting. This achievement highlighted his exceptional stage work alongside his film success.
Pirates Franchise Launch
Cast as Captain Barbossa in 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl,' which became a massive blockbuster. This role brought him mainstream recognition and significant financial success.
The King's Speech Triumph
Starred as speech therapist Lionel Logue in 'The King's Speech,' which won Best Picture. His performance earned widespread acclaim and another Oscar nomination, reinforcing his A-list status.
Australian of the Year
Named Australian of the Year for his contributions to arts and culture. This honor recognized his impact beyond entertainment and elevated his cultural significance.
Misconduct Allegations Crisis
Faced allegations of inappropriate behavior during a Sydney Theatre Company production, which he denied. The controversy led to a legal battle and damaged his reputation, though he later won defamation cases.
Respected Elder Statesman
Despite past controversies, Rush remains highly regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation with a Triple Crown of Acting. His exceptional body of work and continued involvement in theater keep him relevant in the industry.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026