About
Sir Nigel Hawthorne (1929-2001) was an English actor renowned for his stage and screen performances. He is best remembered for his portrayal of the cunning and witty Sir Humphrey Appleby in the BBC sitcoms 'Yes Minister' and 'Yes, Prime Minister.' For this role, he won four BAFTA TV Awards, solidifying his status as a comedic genius. Hawthorne was a versatile actor, excelling in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Career Timeline
Early Stage Career
Early acting work in British theatre.
'Yes Minister' Breakthrough
Gained fame as Sir Humphrey Appleby.
'Yes, Prime Minister'
Continued success with the sequel series.
'The Madness of King George'
Oscar nomination for his performance.
Death
Passed away at the age of 72.
Comedy Legacy
Remembered for iconic TV roles.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 21, 2026