David Tree, a British actor of remarkable talent and potential, entered the world on July 15, 1915, within a family boasting a storied and illustrious history in the theatrical arts. His mother, the accomplished stage actress Viola Tree, was the daughter of the highly respected classical stage actor Herbert Beerbohm Tree and his esteemed actress wife, Lady Tree, a union that undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping David's own future in the world of entertainment. Furthermore, David's younger sister, Virginia, would later go on to become the esteemed Marchioness of Bath, a testament to the family's enduring legacy and influence in the world of the performing arts.
David embarked on his illustrious acting career at the tender age of six, commencing with a modest role alongside his mother in a production of Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece, "The Tempest". This early foray into the world of theatre laid the foundation for a lifelong passion and dedication to his craft.
Subsequently, David pursued his formal education at the prestigious Eton, where he honed his skills and refined his artistic sensibilities. His experience in repertory theatre with esteemed companies such as the Old Vic, the Playhouse, and the Oxford theatre companies further honed his abilities and provided a rich tapestry of opportunities for growth and development.
David's performances garnered widespread acclaim, with his portrayals of Ferdinand in "The Tempest" and Feste in "Twelfth Night" receiving particular notice for their nuance and depth. These early successes served as a testament to his burgeoning talent and set the stage for a distinguished career in the world of theatre.
David's cinematic trajectory gained significant momentum in 1937 with the release of the highly acclaimed film "Knight Without Armor", which marked a pivotal turning point in his burgeoning film career. This milestone was swiftly followed by notable performances in the equally impressive "The Return of the Scarlet Pimpernel" and "The Drum", showcasing his remarkable range and versatility as an actor.
However, it was his breakout role in 1938's "Pygmalion" that truly cemented his status as a rising star. In this iconic film, David brought to life the charming and charismatic Freddy Eynsford-Hill, a suitor who, albeit briefly, rivals the captivating performances of Wendy Hiller as Eliza Doolittle and Leslie Howard as Professor Henry Higgins. Notably, his mother made a minor appearance in the film, adding a touching layer of personal connection to his already impressive on-screen presence.
David's remarkable talent for acting continued to captivate audiences, as he shared the spotlight with the esteemed Ray Milland in the captivating production of "French Without Tears". His impressive performances also earned him leading roles in war films, such as "Clouds Over Europe", which showcased his versatility as an actor.
However, as the ominous shadow of World War II loomed, David felt compelled to put his acting career on hold and serve his country with distinction. He joined the Royal Artillery, where he faced the ultimate test of courage and sacrifice. Tragically, his bravery came at a great personal cost, as he lost his arm during his time in service.
Upon his discharge from the military, David chose to retire from the world of acting and pursue a new path, that of a dedicated farmer. Although he made sporadic appearances on stage, including a memorable role in the acclaimed production of "Billy Budd" in 1951, he largely disappeared from the public eye for over three decades, his remarkable talent and dedication to his craft temporarily overshadowed by the demands of his new life.
Nicolas Roeg, a close friend of David's and a renowned director in his own right, skillfully enticed David out of a lengthy retirement from the world of acting, ultimately convincing him to make a highly anticipated return to the big screen in the esteemed 1973 film "Don't Look Now".
