Death of William Hutt Canada's Arts Scene Loses One of Its Greatest Players

Speech

Ottawa, June 28, 2007
By the Honourable Beverley J. Oda
Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
It is with great sorrow that I have received news of the death of William Hutt, a Canadian actor who had a remarkable career in theatre, television and film.
An outstanding performer recognized as one of the most talented Shakespearean actors of the 20th century, William Hutt first distinguished himself on a completely different stage – that of the Second World War. He served in it as an ambulance driver and won the Medal of Bravery. Then, in the early 1950s, he made a much-noted entrance on the stage of the Stratford Festival, where he gave spirited performances over close to four decades in leading roles such as Macbeth and King Lear, in a multitude of productions. A Companion of the Order of Canada, he also gave us unforgettable performances on film and television, particularly playing the part of Sir John A. MacDonald in the Canadian production The National Dream.
There is no doubt that today the curtain falls for a last time on the life of an outstanding man of the theatre who achieved a brilliant career. I am sure that, just like me, Canadian theatre lovers will cherish imperishable memories of William Hutt.
On behalf of Canada’s New Government, I offer my deepest sympathy to his family and friends at this sad time.
Information:
Jean-Luc Benoît
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
819 997-7788
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101

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2016-12-15

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Death of William Hutt Canada's Arts Scene Loses One of Its Greatest Players

Speech

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