Michael Rennie Biography: Movies, TV Shows, Wiki, Age, Wife, Net Worth, Death, Parents, Siblings, Children

Michael Rennie was a British actor born on August 25, 1909, in Idle, West Yorkshire, England. Best known for his role as Klaatu in the classic 1951 science fiction film The Day the Earth Stood Still, Rennie became a familiar face in both British and Hollywood films.

His tall stature and commanding presence made him a sought-after actor in historical dramas and sci-fi. He also appeared in The Robe (1953) and TV series like The Third Man and Lost in Space. Rennie passed away on June 10, 1971, leaving behind a lasting legacy in science fiction cinema.

Profile

• Full Name: Eric Alexander Rennie
• Stage Name: Michael Rennie
• Born: August 25, 1909
• Age: Passed away at 61 years old (Died June 10, 1971)
• Birthplace: Idle, West Riding of Yorkshire, England
• Nationality: British
• Occupation: Actor
• Height: 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm)
• Parents: James Rennie, Amelia D. Rennie
• Siblings: Bunny Rennie
• Spouse: Joan England (divorced)
• Children: David Rennie, John Marshall Rennie
• Relationship: Divorced
• Net Worth: $1 Million

Early Life And Education

Michael Rennie was born on August 25, 1909, in Idle, West Riding of Yorkshire, England. He was 61 years old at the time of his death on June 10, 1971. He was of British ethnicity and came from a working-class background. His parents were James Rennie and Amelia D. Rennie. He had a sibling named Bunny Rennie

Rennie was raised in Yorkshire and initially pursued various jobs before turning to acting. He later attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London to refine his acting skills, which set the stage for his career in theater and film. As for religion, Michael Rennie was of Christian faith, although there isn’t much public documentation of his religious practices.

He had a strong educational foundation, particularly in the dramatic arts, which led him to a successful acting career in both British and Hollywood cinema.

Career

Michael Rennie‘s career began in the early 1930s in the British film industry, where he initially appeared in minor roles. However, it was his breakout role in the 1951 science fiction classic The Day the Earth Stood Still that truly catapulted him to international fame.

In the film, he portrayed Klaatu, an extraterrestrial visitor who comes to Earth with a powerful message for humanity. This role cemented Rennie as a prominent figure in the science fiction genre and made him a recognizable face in Hollywood.

Following his success in The Day the Earth Stood Still, Rennie appeared in numerous films throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Notable roles included playing Javert in Les Misérables (1952), a part in The Robe (1953), and starring in the historical drama Sailor of the King (1953).

His tall stature and commanding presence made him particularly suited to roles in epic dramas, while his ability to bring depth to his characters allowed him to stand out in a wide range of genres, including thrillers, war films, and adventure stories.

Rennie also transitioned to television, where he appeared in series such as The Third Man and had a recurring role as a guest star on the popular 1960s TV series Lost in Space. His versatility allowed him to take on both dramatic and comedic roles, earning him continued recognition throughout his career.

Although not as well-known for awards, Rennie earned critical acclaim for his performances, particularly in science fiction and historical films. He continued to be a respected figure in both British and American cinema until his death in 1971.

Personal Life

Michael Rennie was married to Joan England, though the couple later divorced. They had two children together: David Rennie and John Marshall Rennie. David was born in 1941, while John Marshall was born later in 1953.

Rennie stood at an impressive height of 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm), which contributed to his commanding presence both on and off screen.

Filmography

Some of Michael Rennie‘s notable works include:

• The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)
• Les Misérables (1952)
• The Robe (1953)
• The Third Man (TV series, 1959–1965)
• Lost in Space (TV series, 1965–1966)
• Flight to Tangier (1953)
• Sailor of the King (1953)

Net Worth

Michael Rennie had an estimated net worth of around $1 million at the time of his death in 1971. His wealth primarily came from his successful career as an actor in both British and Hollywood films. Rennie earned substantial income from his roles in iconic films such as The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), The Robe (1953), and Les Misérables (1952), as well as from his work in television series like The Third Man and Lost in Space.

Additionally, Rennie‘s stage performances and various guest appearances in film and TV contributed to his overall earnings, solidifying his place as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.