Fallen Idol: A Celebrated Heartthrob's Scandalous Transformation - Falling from Graceful Leading Man to Mocked Peer
Hugh Grant, born on September 9, 1960, celebrated his 65th birthday in 2023. The British actor has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades, marked by two distinct phases.
Grant's initial phase saw him rise to international fame with the release of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" in 1994. His portrayal of the charming, slightly clumsy Charles was a breakthrough, earning him critical acclaim and a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film grossed over 245 million US dollars, solidifying Grant's status as a heartthrob.
Following "Four Weddings and a Funeral", Grant appeared in a long string of romantic comedies over the next two decades. Some of these roles, such as in "Notting Hill" and "Love Actually", were successful, while others, like "Did You Hear About the Morgans?", were forgettable.
In the late 1990s, Grant's career took a turn when he received attention through acting roles in Merchant Ivory films "Maurice" (1987) and "Remains of the Day" (1993). These roles showcased Grant's versatility, proving he was more than just a romantic lead.
However, it was not until more recent years that Grant fully convinced as a villain in comedy films like "Paddington 2" and "Heretic." His transformation from charming lead to formidable antagonist was a testament to his acting prowess.
Grant's career has not been without controversy. In 1995, he was arrested in Los Angeles for receiving a blowjob from a sex worker. This incident, while damaging to his public image, did not significantly hinder his career.
More recently, Grant started a third career as a provocateur in media, causing controversy with off-topic speeches at events like the Oscars. In his 2019 Oscars speech, he described Andie MacDowell as "still stunning" and referred to his own face as "basically a scrotum."
Grant was in a relationship with model and actress Elizabeth Hurley from 1987 to 2000. Since then, he has been married to Swedish TV producer Anna Eberstein since 2018 and is a father of five.
Despite his controversial appearances and off-colour remarks, Grant remains a beloved figure in British cinema. His career, marked by a shift from romantic comedies to more villainous roles and provocative antics, continues to captivate audiences.
