Jeremy Irons’ Career: From ‘Nijinsky’ to ‘The Beekeeper’

With a commanding presence and one of the most distinctive voices in cinema, Jeremy Irons has built a remarkable career playing a wide array of complex and compelling characters. The English actor is celebrated for his work on stage and screen, earning him the “Triple Crown of Acting” with an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and an Emmy Award. His performances often explore the depths of human nature, from romantic leads and tortured intellectuals to menacing villains.

Beginning his film career in the 1980s after establishing himself in the theatre, Irons quickly rose to international prominence. His filmography showcases incredible versatility, moving seamlessly from historical dramas and intense thrillers to blockbuster action films and beloved animated classics. Whether portraying a controversial socialite, a sinister lion, or a dedicated priest, Jeremy Irons brings a unique gravity and intelligence to every role he inhabits, solidifying his status as one of the finest actors of his generation.

‘Nijinsky’ (1980)

In this biographical film, Jeremy Irons portrayed Mikhail Fokine, the renowned ballet dancer and choreographer. The story chronicles the life of Vaslav Nijinsky, a celebrated star of the Ballets Russes, focusing on his troubled relationship with the impresario Sergei Diaghilev and his descent into mental illness.

The film explored the vibrant and tumultuous world of early 20th-century ballet. Irons’ role was a significant supporting part in a story about passion, art, and personal tragedy, showcasing his ability to embody historical figures.

‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ (1981)

Jeremy Irons starred in a dual role as Charles Henry Smithson, a Victorian gentleman, and Mike, a modern-day actor. The innovative film intercuts a Victorian romance with the story of the actors who are playing those characters in a film. As Charles, he becomes obsessed with a mysterious and disgraced woman.

The film, co-starring Meryl Streep, was a critical success praised for its complex narrative structure. Irons’ performance captured both the repressed emotion of a Victorian man and the more modern sensibilities of an actor, earning him a BAFTA nomination.

‘Moonlighting’ (1982)

In ‘Moonlighting’, Irons played Nowak, the leader of a group of Polish construction workers in London. When martial law is declared back home in Poland, Nowak decides to hide the news from his colleagues to ensure they finish their job, leading to tension and isolation.

The film is a powerful political allegory and a character study of a man in a moral dilemma. Irons’ performance, which required him to speak Polish, was widely acclaimed and established him as a leading man of significant depth and skill.

‘Betrayal’ (1983)

Jeremy Irons starred as Jerry in this adaptation of Harold Pinter’s celebrated play. The film unfolds in reverse chronological order, starting at the end of a seven-year affair between Jerry and his best friend’s wife, Emma, and tracing the relationship back to its beginning.

The film’s unusual structure highlights the subtleties of memory and deception. Alongside Ben Kingsley and Patricia Hodge, Irons delivered a nuanced performance that captured the complex emotions of love, friendship, and betrayal.

‘The Wild Duck’ (1984)

In this Australian adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s play, Jeremy Irons played Harold. The story is set in a small town in the early 20th century, where the lives of two families are torn apart after a long-buried secret is revealed.

Irons’ character is an idealistic man whose insistence on absolute truth leads to tragic consequences. The film is a dramatic exploration of family secrets and the destructive power of idealism.

‘Swann in Love’ (1984)

Irons portrayed Charles Swann, a wealthy man in Parisian high society at the turn of the 20th century. The film, based on a section of Marcel Proust’s novel ‘In Search of Lost Time’, details Swann’s obsessive and ultimately destructive love for a courtesan.

The lavish production was a French-German venture, and Irons delivered his performance in French. His portrayal of the elegant and tormented Swann was central to this story of social class and passionate obsession.

‘The Mission’ (1986)

In ‘The Mission’, Jeremy Irons played Father Gabriel, a Jesuit priest who establishes a mission in the South American jungle during the 18th century. He is dedicated to converting the indigenous Guaraní people through peace and music but must confront political forces that threaten their way of life.

The film, which also starred Robert De Niro, was praised for its stunning cinematography and powerful story. It won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, and Irons’ portrayal of the gentle and unwavering priest was a highlight of the epic historical drama.

‘Dead Ringers’ (1988)

Irons delivered a tour-de-force performance in the dual role of Beverly and Elliot Mantle, identical twin gynecologists. The brilliant but codependent brothers share everything, from their medical practice to their women, but their world begins to unravel when a new woman enters their lives.

Directed by David Cronenberg, the psychological thriller required Irons to create two distinct yet intertwined personalities. His portrayal was critically acclaimed as a masterful acting achievement, showcasing his incredible range and control.

‘A Chorus of Disapproval’ (1989)

Jeremy Irons starred as Guy Jones in this comedy. His character is a shy widower who joins a local amateur operatic society to make new friends. He soon finds himself cast in a lead role on stage and entangled in various romantic affairs offstage.

Based on a play by Alan Ayckbourn, the film is a lighthearted look at the drama and intrigue within a small community theatre group. The cast also included Anthony Hopkins and Prunella Scales.

‘Australia’ (1989)

In this Belgian-French-Swiss drama, Irons played Edouard Pierson, a man who returns to his Belgian hometown. The film explores themes of memory and the changes that occur over time as Edouard interacts with people from his past.

This character-driven film offered Irons a role that focused on quiet introspection and relationships. The story is a melancholic reflection on personal history and the feeling of being an outsider in one’s own home.

‘Danny the Champion of the World’ (1989)

Irons starred as William Smith in this family film based on the Roald Dahl book. He plays a loving father who lives with his young son Danny in a caravan. Together, they devise a clever and daring plan to poach pheasants from a wealthy landowner.

The film is a heartwarming story about the bond between a father and son. Irons’ portrayal of the kind and imaginative father was central to the movie’s charm, and he starred alongside his own son, Samuel.

‘Reversal of Fortune’ (1990)

Jeremy Irons won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Claus von Bülow, a controversial European aristocrat. The film is based on the true story of von Bülow, who was accused of attempting to murder his wealthy wife, Sunny, by giving her an overdose of insulin.

The film follows the appeal process, led by law professor Alan Dershowitz. Irons’ performance was masterful, capturing the enigmatic and ambiguous nature of von Bülow, leaving the audience to question his guilt or innocence.

‘The Beggar’s Opera’ (1991)

Irons appeared as a prisoner in ‘Beggar’s Opera’, a film by Czech director Jiří Menzel. The story is a modern take on the classic 18th-century play, centering on criminals and corrupt officials.

This was a smaller, less conventional role for Irons in a European art-house film. The movie itself uses the framework of a theatrical production to comment on society.

‘Kafka’ (1991)

Jeremy Irons played the title role of writer Franz Kafka in this semi-biographical thriller. The film blends the real-life details of Kafka’s life as an insurance clerk in Prague with the surreal and nightmarish elements of his fictional stories. He finds himself embroiled in a mysterious conspiracy after a colleague disappears.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film was shot in black and white to evoke the style of classic German Expressionist films. Irons’ performance captured the paranoia and anxiety that defined Kafka’s literary world.

‘Waterland’ (1992)

In ‘Waterland’, Irons played Tom Crick, a history teacher living in Pittsburgh. Prompted by a crisis in his personal life and a student’s questioning of the relevance of history, he begins to tell his class stories of his own troubled past growing up in the Fenlands of England.

The film uses flashbacks to explore themes of history, memory, and storytelling. Irons delivered a powerful performance as a man haunted by his past and desperate to make sense of it.

‘Damage’ (1992)

Irons starred as Dr. Stephen Fleming, a respected politician and family man, in the erotic thriller ‘Damage’. His orderly life is destroyed when he embarks on a passionate and obsessive affair with his son’s mysterious fiancée.

The film, directed by Louis Malle and co-starring Juliette Binoche, was a controversial and intense exploration of forbidden desire. Irons’ portrayal captured the devastating consequences of a man’s surrender to a consuming obsession.

‘M. Butterfly’ (1993)

Jeremy Irons played René Gallimard, a French diplomat stationed in 1960s China. The film, based on the award-winning play, follows his decades-long love affair with a beautiful Chinese opera singer who he later discovers is not only a spy but also a man.

The film reunited Irons with director David Cronenberg for a story about love, fantasy, and self-deception. His performance depicted a man so caught up in his idealized vision of the perfect woman that he remains blind to the truth.

‘The House of the Spirits’ (1993)

In this sprawling family saga, Irons played Esteban Trueba, a poor man who rises to become a wealthy landowner and powerful patriarch in an unnamed South American country. The film spans several decades, chronicling his volatile life and his relationships with his clairvoyant wife and rebellious daughter.

Based on the novel by Isabel Allende, the film featured an all-star cast including Meryl Streep, Glenn Close, and Winona Ryder. Irons’ character transforms from an ambitious young man to a tyrannical and regretful old man over the course of the epic story.

‘The Lion King’ (1994)

Jeremy Irons lent his iconic voice to one of Disney’s most memorable villains, Scar. He is the scheming and treacherous brother of King Mufasa who orchestrates his brother’s death in order to seize the throne of the Pride Lands.

Irons’ silky, menacing vocal performance was a key element of the animated classic’s success. The character of Scar, with his chilling delivery and unforgettable song “Be Prepared,” became an all-time great Disney villain.

‘Die Hard: With a Vengeance’ (1995)

Irons played the main antagonist, Simon Gruber, in the third installment of the ‘Die Hard’ franchise. He is the brilliant and cunning brother of the villain from the first film. He terrorizes New York City with a series of riddles and bomb threats, forcing detective John McClane to play his deadly game.

As the charismatic and ruthless Simon, Irons created a formidable and intelligent adversary for Bruce Willis’s hero. His performance added a layer of intellectual menace to the high-octane action film.

‘Stealing Beauty’ (1996)

In this film by Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci, Jeremy Irons played Alex, a terminally ill writer. The story follows a young American woman who spends a summer at a villa in Tuscany with a community of artists and intellectuals, including Alex.

His role was a supporting one, but his character serves as a source of wisdom and poignancy in the film. He observes and guides the young protagonist as she navigates her own journey of self-discovery and love.

‘Chinese Box’ (1997)

Irons starred as John, a British journalist living in Hong Kong during the final months before its handover from British rule to China. Diagnosed with leukemia, he tries to capture the essence of the changing city while navigating a complex love triangle.

The film is a political and personal drama that uses John’s impending mortality as a metaphor for the end of an era in Hong Kong. It offered Irons another role as a thoughtful, world-weary observer.

‘Lolita’ (1997)

In this controversial adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov’s famous novel, Irons portrayed Humbert Humbert. He is a European literature professor who becomes obsessed with a 12-year-old girl, marrying her mother just to be near her.

The film was a difficult and challenging project due to its subject matter. Irons’ performance conveyed the character’s torment and self-loathing in a story about forbidden and destructive obsession.

‘The Man in the Iron Mask’ (1998)

Jeremy Irons played Aramis, one of the legendary Three Musketeers, in this adventure film. Years after their glory days, Aramis and his fellow Musketeers embark on a daring plot to depose the cruel King Louis XIV and replace him with his secret, gentler twin brother.

He was part of an ensemble cast that included Leonardo DiCaprio, John Malkovich, and Gérard Depardieu. The role allowed Irons to participate in a swashbuckling period piece full of action and intrigue.

‘Faeries’ (1999)

In this animated fantasy film, Irons voiced The Shapeshifter, a malevolent creature. The story follows two children who accidentally wander into a fairy kingdom hidden in their garden, where they must confront the dangers posed by the Shapeshifter and his troll-like underlings.

Irons lent his distinctive voice to another villainous character in this animated feature. His performance contributed to the sense of menace in the film’s fairy-tale world.

‘Dungeons & Dragons’ (2000)

Irons played the villainous archmage Profion in this fantasy film based on the popular role-playing game. Profion plots to overthrow the young Empress of the land by gaining control of a powerful scepter that commands dragons.

His performance in the film was notably over-the-top and has become something of a cult favorite among fans for its unrestrained villainy. He fully embraced the high-fantasy setting of the story.

‘The Fourth Angel’ (2001)

In ‘The Fourth Angel’, Irons played Jack Elgin, a London journalist. After his wife and daughters are killed in a terrorist hijacking, he becomes frustrated with the lack of official action and decides to take justice into his own hands, hunting down the killers himself.

This role was a departure for Irons, placing him at the center of a vigilante action-thriller. The film explored themes of grief, revenge, and one man’s fight against a system he feels has failed him.

‘Callas Forever’ (2002)

Irons portrayed Larry Kelly, a music promoter and old friend of opera singer Maria Callas. In this fictionalized account, Larry convinces the reclusive and aging opera legend to come out of retirement to make a film where she lip-syncs to her old recordings.

The film, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, is a tribute to the iconic diva. Irons’ character is the catalyst for the story, which explores themes of art, fame, and the passage of time.

‘The Time Machine’ (2002)

In this adaptation of the H.G. Wells novel, Irons had a key supporting role as The Über-Morlock. He is the highly intelligent and powerful leader of the subterranean Morlocks, who rule over the peaceful Eloi in the distant future.

Irons’ character explains the history and harsh realities of this future world to the time-traveling protagonist. His performance as the calm and chillingly logical leader of the monstrous race was a memorable part of the film.

‘And Now… Ladies and Gentlemen…’ (2002)

Jeremy Irons starred as Valentin Valentin, a sophisticated thief. Seeking a change of pace, he sails his yacht to Morocco, where he meets a famous singer who is suffering from memory loss, leading to a romantic and mysterious entanglement.

This French film was a moody and atmospheric blend of romance, crime, and music. Irons delivered a charismatic performance as a world-weary but charming gentleman thief.

‘Mathilde’ (2006)

In this war drama, Irons played Colonel De Petris. The film is a tragic love story set in Croatia during the final days of World War II, focusing on the relationship between a young woman and two men on opposite sides of the conflict.

Irons’ role was a supporting part in this intense and dramatic film. His presence added gravitas to the story of love and survival amidst the brutality of war.

‘The Merchant of Venice’ (2004)

Irons took on the role of Antonio, the title character in this film adaptation of Shakespeare’s famous play. Antonio is a wealthy merchant in Venice who stakes the money of his friend Bassanio, a deal that puts him in the power of the unforgiving moneylender Shylock.

Starring alongside Al Pacino as Shylock and Joseph Fiennes as Bassanio, Irons portrayed the melancholic and noble Antonio. The performance captured the deep loyalty and quiet sadness of the character at the heart of the play’s moral and financial crisis.

‘Being Julia’ (2004)

In ‘Being Julia’, Irons played Michael Gosselyn, the husband and manager of a celebrated London stage actress. The film follows the actress, played by Annette Bening, as she navigates a mid-life crisis and a complicated romantic affair, with her husband observing from the sidelines.

The role was a key supporting part in this witty comedy-drama about the theatre world. Irons portrayed a measured and perceptive character amidst the dramatic ups and downs of his famous wife’s life.

‘Kingdom of Heaven’ (2005)

Jeremy Irons played Tiberias, the marshal of Jerusalem, in Ridley Scott’s historical epic ‘Kingdom of Heaven’. Set during the Crusades, the film follows a young blacksmith who travels to Jerusalem and becomes a key defender of the city. Tiberias acts as a cynical but wise mentor to the young hero.

As Tiberias, Irons represented a voice of reason and military pragmatism in a kingdom on the brink of war. His commanding performance was a standout in the film’s large ensemble cast.

‘Casanova’ (2005)

Irons played Pucci, a stern and religious figure who acts as an antagonist to the legendary lover Giacomo Casanova. The film is a lighthearted romantic romp that follows Casanova’s efforts to win the heart of a woman who is not impressed by his reputation.

His role as the humorless Pucci provided a comic foil to the flamboyant adventures of the main character. It was a smaller, more comedic role for Irons in this period adventure.

‘Inland Empire’ (2006)

In David Lynch’s surreal and experimental film ‘Inland Empire’, Jeremy Irons played Kingsley Stewart. The film is a nightmarish journey into the mind of an actress, played by Laura Dern, whose reality begins to unravel after she takes on a role in a cursed film production.

Irons’ character is the director of the film-within-the-film. His part is a small but memorable piece of the complex and disorienting puzzle that is characteristic of Lynch’s work.

‘Eragon’ (2006)

Irons appeared as Brom in the fantasy film ‘Eragon’, based on the popular young adult novel. Brom is a former Dragon Rider and storyteller who becomes a mentor to the young farm boy Eragon after he discovers a dragon egg. He teaches Eragon how to fight and use magic.

The role of the wise and mysterious mentor was a familiar one in the fantasy genre. Irons brought his characteristic gravitas to the part, guiding the young hero on his epic journey.

‘Appaloosa’ (2008)

In the Western film ‘Appaloosa’, Jeremy Irons played the villain Randall Bragg. Bragg is a ruthless and powerful rancher who has taken control of a small town. Two lawmen are hired to bring him to justice, leading to a tense standoff.

Irons portrayed a sophisticated and intelligent antagonist who is more than just a common outlaw. His battle of wits with the heroes, played by Ed Harris and Viggo Mortensen, was a central part of this character-driven Western.

‘The Pink Panther 2’ (2009)

Jeremy Irons joined the cast of ‘The Pink Panther 2’ as Alonso Avellaneda. He is one of a “Dream Team” of international detectives assembled to help the inept Inspector Clouseau catch a master thief who is stealing historical artifacts around the world.

This was a purely comedic role for Irons, placing him in an ensemble cast alongside Steve Martin, Jean Reno, and Alfred Molina. He played a smooth and professional Italian detective, a stark contrast to Clouseau’s chaotic methods.

‘Margin Call’ (2011)

In ‘Margin Call’, Irons played John Tuld, the calculating CEO of a major Wall Street investment bank. The film takes place over a 24-hour period at the beginning of the 2008 financial crisis, as the firm’s analysts realize that they are on the verge of ruin.

As the powerful and pragmatic CEO, Irons delivers a chillingly calm performance in the face of impending disaster. His final boardroom scene, where he makes the decision to sell off the firm’s toxic assets, is a highlight of the critically acclaimed film.

‘The Words’ (2012)

Irons played The Old Man in ‘The Words’, a film with a layered, story-within-a-story structure. He portrays the true author of a brilliant manuscript that a struggling young writer found and published as his own. The Old Man confronts the young writer to tell him the heartbreaking story behind the novel.

His performance was the emotional core of the film. Irons delivered a moving monologue that recounted a story of love, loss, and regret, adding depth and poignancy to the film’s exploration of creativity and authorship.

‘Night Train to Lisbon’ (2013)

Jeremy Irons starred as Raimund Gregorius, a Swiss professor of ancient languages. After a chance encounter, he abruptly leaves his structured life and travels to Lisbon, using a book by a Portuguese author to trace the author’s life and his involvement in the resistance against the country’s dictatorship.

The film is a philosophical journey of self-discovery. Irons’ portrayal of a quiet academic who embarks on a life-changing adventure was praised as a thoughtful and compelling performance.

‘Beautiful Creatures’ (2013)

In the young adult fantasy film ‘Beautiful Creatures’, Irons played Macon Ravenwood. He is the mysterious and reclusive uncle of the protagonist, a powerful young “Caster” whose family has dark secrets. He tries to protect his niece from the dark forces that want to claim her.

Irons brought a sense of gothic elegance and gravitas to the role of the powerful patriarch of a magical family. The role saw him return to the fantasy genre, playing a complex and conflicted character.

‘High-Rise’ (2015)

Irons portrayed Anthony Royal, the architect of a futuristic high-rise building, in this dystopian film. The building is designed to contain everything its wealthy residents need, but soon its systems begin to fail, and the social structure within the tower descends into chaos and violence.

Based on the novel by J.G. Ballard, the film is a dark satire of modern society and class warfare. As the visionary architect living in the penthouse, Irons’ character is an aloof and god-like figure observing the collapse of his own creation.

‘The Man Who Knew Infinity’ (2015)

Jeremy Irons played G. H. Hardy, a prominent English mathematician at Cambridge University. The film tells the true story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, a self-taught mathematical genius from India who is invited to study with Hardy at Cambridge in the years before World War I.

As Hardy, Irons portrayed a reserved and atheist academic who must overcome his own prejudices and the rigid attitudes of the university to recognize and champion the extraordinary talent of Ramanujan. It’s a powerful story of mentorship and intellectual collaboration against a backdrop of war and cultural divides.

‘Correspondence’ (2016)

In this Italian romantic drama, Irons played Ed Phoerum, an aging astrophysics professor. He carries on a long-distance love affair with a much younger PhD student, communicating with her through a constant stream of video messages, texts, and packages.

The film, directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, explores love and loss in the digital age. Irons’ performance was delivered almost entirely through screens, as his character continues to influence his lover’s life even when he is no longer physically present.

‘Race’ (2016)

Irons portrayed Avery Brundage, a powerful and controversial American sports administrator, in the biographical film ‘Race’. The movie chronicles Jesse Owens’ incredible journey to the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he won four gold medals, defying Adolf Hitler’s vision of Aryan supremacy.

As the head of the American Olympic Committee, Brundage was a key figure who fought for the United States to participate in the games despite political pressure. Irons played the complex and politically ambitious man who was a central player in the dramatic events surrounding the historic games.

‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016)

Jeremy Irons took on the iconic role of Alfred Pennyworth, the loyal butler, guardian, and chief of operations for Bruce Wayne. This version of the character is more of a hands-on technical support for Batman, assisting him with everything from tactics to maintaining the Batmobile.

Irons’ interpretation of Alfred was more cynical and world-weary than previous versions, with a dry wit and a clear concern for the dark path Bruce Wayne was on. He provided a voice of reason and support to the troubled hero.

‘Their Finest’ (2016)

In ‘Their Finest’, Jeremy Irons had a supporting role as the Secretary of War. The film is set in London during the Blitz of World War II and follows a team of filmmakers tasked with creating propaganda films to boost public morale.

Although a small part, Irons’ appearance as a powerful government official was memorable. He brought a touch of gravitas and wit to this charming British comedy-drama about the magic of filmmaking during wartime.

‘Assassin’s Creed’ (2016)

Irons played Alan Rikkin, the CEO of Abstergo Industries, in this film adaptation of the popular video game series. Abstergo is the modern-day front for the Templar Order, which seeks to eliminate free will and control humanity. Rikkin oversees a project that allows a death row inmate to relive the memories of his assassin ancestor.

As the high-ranking Templar leader, Irons portrayed the film’s primary antagonist. He was a sophisticated and powerful figure whose quest for control put him in direct conflict with the assassins.

‘Birds Like Us’ (2017)

In this animated film, Irons lent his voice to Kondor, a visually striking and formidable bird. The story is a poetic allegory about a group of birds who embark on a perilous journey to find a king and a new home after their old one is destroyed.

The film is an independent animated feature with a unique visual style. Irons’ voice acting contributed to the mythical and epic tone of the allegorical tale.

‘Justice League’ (2017)

Irons reprised his role as Alfred Pennyworth, providing essential support to Batman and the newly formed Justice League. He acts as the team’s remote eyes and ears, coordinating their efforts and offering tactical advice as they unite to face a catastrophic alien threat.

His character’s humor and humanity provided a grounding element amidst the large-scale superhero action. Alfred’s steadfast loyalty to Bruce Wayne and his commitment to the new team were key parts of his role.

‘Red Sparrow’ (2018)

In the spy thriller ‘Red Sparrow’, Irons played General Vladimir Korchnoi, a high-ranking Russian intelligence officer. The film follows a young ballerina who is recruited into a secret program that trains operatives to use their bodies and minds as weapons.

Irons portrayed a key figure within the shadowy world of Russian intelligence. His character is involved in the high-stakes game of counter-espionage, and his motives are a crucial part of the film’s complex plot of deception and betrayal.

‘Better Start Running’ (2018)

Irons appeared as Garrison, an eccentric and reclusive FBI agent, in this offbeat comedy-thriller, on which he also served as an executive producer. The story follows a group of unlikely misfits who go on the run after one of them is suspected of a crime.

As the agent pursuing them, Irons’ character is a strange and unpredictable figure. His quirky performance added to the film’s mix of road trip adventure, romance, and crime.

‘An Actor Prepares’ (2018)

Jeremy Irons starred as Atticus Smith, an egocentric and famous actor who suffers a heart attack. His estranged, nerdy son must drive him cross-country to his daughter’s wedding, forcing the two to confront their difficult relationship during the chaotic road trip.

The film is a father-son comedy that allowed Irons to play a larger-than-life character full of vanity and dramatic flair. The story explores themes of family, forgiveness, and the clash between a celebrity father and his more grounded son.

‘Love, Weddings & Other Disasters’ (2020)

Irons played Lawrence Phillips, an uptight and high-profile wedding planner, in this romantic comedy. His life is turned upside down when he is set up on a blind date with a woman who is vision-impaired, leading to a series of chaotic and heartwarming events.

The film is an ensemble comedy that follows several interlocking stories of people searching for love. Irons’ role was part of a storyline that explored how love can be found in the most unexpected ways.

‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ (2021)

Irons returned as Alfred Pennyworth in this director’s cut of ‘Justice League’. This much longer version of the film gave his character more screen time and further developed his role as Batman’s invaluable partner and the logistical anchor for the superhero team.

The extended cut allowed for more moments of quiet character development and highlighted the importance of Alfred’s technical skills and moral support. His relationship with Bruce Wayne was given more depth and context in this version of the film.

‘Munich – The Edge of War’ (2021)

Jeremy Irons portrayed British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in this historical thriller. The film is set in the days leading up to the 1938 Munich Agreement and follows two young diplomats, one German and one British, who try to expose Hitler’s true plans for war.

Irons delivered a sympathetic and nuanced portrayal of Chamberlain, a historical figure often criticized for his policy of appeasement. The film offers a different perspective, showing him as a man desperately trying to prevent a catastrophic war.

‘House of Gucci’ (2021)

In ‘House of Gucci’, Irons played Rodolfo Gucci, the elegant and aloof son of the fashion house’s founder. He is the father of Maurizio Gucci and strongly disapproves of his son’s marriage to the ambitious Patrizia Reggiani, which he fears will bring ruin to the family name.

Directed by Ridley Scott, the film is a glamorous and dramatic saga of family, power, and betrayal. As the dignified patriarch, Irons represented the old guard of the Gucci dynasty, trying to protect its legacy from outside influences.

‘The Flash’ (2023)

Jeremy Irons made a cameo appearance as Alfred Pennyworth in ‘The Flash’. He appears in a phone call with Bruce Wayne, providing his usual dry wit and assistance before the Flash’s time-altering actions change the course of the universe.

Though brief, his return to the role helped connect the film to the previous DC Extended Universe entries. It was a familiar and welcome presence before the story’s reality-bending plot took over.

‘The Cello’ (2023)

In this horror film, Irons played Francesco, an enigmatic figure who orchestrates the story’s events. The plot follows an aspiring musician who acquires a beautiful cello, only to find that it comes with a sinister curse that demands a terrible price for the fame it brings.

This role saw Irons return to the thriller and horror genres, playing a mysterious and powerful character who pulls the strings from the shadows. His performance added an element of sophistication and menace to the supernatural tale.

‘The Beekeeper’ (2024)

Jeremy Irons appeared as Wallace Westwyld in the action film ‘The Beekeeper’. He is a former CIA director who finds himself caught up in a deadly conflict when a clandestine operative known as a “Beekeeper” goes on a mission of revenge against a corrupt tech company.

His character is a polished and high-ranking official who becomes entangled in the film’s web of conspiracy and large-scale action. The role placed Irons back in the thriller genre as a figure of authority in a world of secret agents and covert operations.

With a voice that can command armies or break your heart, which of Jeremy Irons’s multifaceted characters has stayed with you the most?