History of Emma Thompson in Timeline
Dame Emma Thompson is a highly acclaimed English actress and writer with a career spanning over 40 years. Her exceptional talent has earned her numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, three BAFTA Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award. In recognition of her significant contributions to the field of drama, she was honored with a Damehood (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018.
1930: Context of the "Peter Rabbit" Series
This entry provides context for Emma Thompson's contribution to the "Peter Rabbit" series. The year 1930 marked a significant point in the series' history, as it was the last year an authorized story was published before Thompson's addition.
April 1959: Birth and Family Background
Emma Thompson was born in London on April 1959 to actors Eric Thompson and Phyllida Law, immersing her in a creative environment from a young age.
April 1959: Birth of Emma Thompson
On April 1959, Emma Thompson was born in London, England.
1977: Enrollment at Cambridge and Feminist Awakening
In 1977, Emma Thompson began her studies at Newnham College, Cambridge, where she pursued an English degree and experienced a pivotal moment that ignited her passion for feminism and performance.
1980: Footlights Vice Presidency and "Woman's Hour"
In 1980, Emma Thompson served as the Vice President of the Cambridge Footlights, demonstrating her leadership and comedic talent, and co-directed the troupe's first all-female revue, "Woman's Hour".
1982: Professional Stage Debut in "Not the Nine O'Clock News"
Emma Thompson made her professional stage debut in 1982, touring in a stage production of the popular British comedy show "Not the Nine O'Clock News".
1982: Queen Elizabeth II Incident
In 1982, an intruder broke into Queen Elizabeth II's bedroom, an event later dramatized in a Playhouse Presents episode starring Emma Thompson.
1982: Loss of Father and Inherited Legacy
The death of Emma Thompson's father in 1982 at the age of 52 had a profound impact on her life and career.
1983: Alfresco and Early Television Career
Emma Thompson appeared in the comedy sketch series "Alfresco" from 1983 to 1984, marking her early foray into television comedy.
1983: Television Debut in "There's Nothing To Worry About!" and "The Crystal Cube"
Emma Thompson made her television debut in 1983, appearing in the regional ITV comedy series "There's Nothing To Worry About!" and the BBC show "The Crystal Cube".
1984: Alfresco and Early Television Career
Emma Thompson appeared in the comedy sketch series "Alfresco" from 1983 to 1984, marking her early foray into television comedy.
1985: West End Success and "Emma Thompson: Up for Grabs"
Building on her success with "Me and My Girl", Emma Thompson wrote and starred in her own one-off special for Channel 4 titled "Emma Thompson: Up for Grabs" in 1985.
1985: Breakthrough with "Me and My Girl"
In 1985, Emma Thompson's career took a significant step forward when she was cast in the West End revival of the musical "Me and My Girl", starring alongside Robert Lindsay.
1987: Meeting Kenneth Branagh
Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh crossed paths in 1987 while working on the television series "Fortunes of War." This marked the beginning of their professional and personal relationship.
1987: Television Breakthrough with "Fortunes of War" and "Tutti Frutti"
Emma Thompson's career reached new heights in 1987 with her starring roles in two acclaimed television miniseries, "Fortunes of War" and "Tutti Frutti".
1987: BAFTA Win for "Fortunes of War" and "Tutti Frutti"
Emma Thompson's exceptional performances in the television miniseries "Fortunes of War" and "Tutti Frutti" in 1987 earned her the British Academy Television Award for Best Actress.
1988: Collaboration on "Saturday Night Fry"
In 1988, Emma Thompson collaborated again with her Footlights colleagues, Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry, on the acclaimed BBC Radio 4 series "Saturday Night Fry".
1989: Marriage to Kenneth Branagh
Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh tied the knot in 1989. Their union, often portrayed as a "golden couple" in the media, led to several collaborations on stage and screen.
1989: Collaboration with Kenneth Branagh in "Look Back in Anger"
Emma Thompson's professional and personal relationship with Kenneth Branagh blossomed in 1989 when they co-starred in a stage revival of "Look Back in Anger," directed by Judi Dench and produced by Branagh's Renaissance Theatre Company.
1989: Stage and Television Production of "Look Back in Anger"
In 1989, Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh furthered their professional partnership by starring in both a stage revival and a televised version of John Osborne's play "Look Back in Anger".
1989: Film Debut in "The Tall Guy" and Appearance in "Henry V"
In 1989, Emma Thompson made her first cinema appearance in the romantic comedy "The Tall Guy", where she played a nurse. She also appeared as Princess Katherine in Kenneth Branagh's adaptation of "Henry V", which was critically acclaimed.
1991: Collaboration with Kenneth Branagh in "Dead Again"
Emma Thompson continued her collaboration with Kenneth Branagh in the film "Dead Again", released in 1991.
1991: Performances in "Impromptu" and "Dead Again"
In 1991, Emma Thompson starred in "Impromptu" alongside Judy Davis and Hugh Grant, earning an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She also appeared in "Dead Again", a noir film directed by Kenneth Branagh.
1991: Original Release of Beauty and the Beast
The animated film "Beauty and the Beast" was originally released in 1991.
1992: Appearance in "Peter's Friends"
Emma Thompson starred in the comedy "Peter's Friends" in 1992, reuniting with Kenneth Branagh and other notable actors. Her performance was well-received, with critics like Desson Howe of The Washington Post highlighting her contribution to the film.
1992: Academy Award Win for "Howards End"
Emma Thompson won the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1992 for her role in the film "Howards End," directed by James Ivory.
1992: Guest Role on "Cheers"
In 1992, Emma Thompson made a guest appearance as Frasier Crane's first wife in an episode of the popular sitcom "Cheers".
1993: Double Academy Award Nomination for "The Remains of the Day" and "In the Name of the Father"
Emma Thompson achieved the distinction of receiving two Academy Award nominations in the same year - Best Actress for "The Remains of the Day" and Best Supporting Actress for "In the Name of the Father" in 1993.
1993: Critical Acclaim for "The Remains of the Day" and "In the Name of the Father"
Emma Thompson received two Academy Award nominations in 1993 - Best Actress for "The Remains of the Day" and Best Supporting Actress for "In the Name of the Father" - a rare feat in the industry.
1993: Dual Oscar Nomination for "The Remains of the Day" and "In the Name of the Father"
In 1993, Emma Thompson received two Oscar nominations in the same year: Best Actress for "The Remains of the Day" and Best Supporting Actress for her role as Gareth Peirce in "In the Name of the Father". This achievement marked her as the eighth performer in history to achieve this distinction.
1993: Performance in Branagh's "Much Ado About Nothing"
In 1993, Emma Thompson starred as Beatrice in Kenneth Branagh's adaptation of Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing". The film and her performance, particularly her chemistry with Branagh, garnered critical praise.
1993: Acclaimed Performance in "The Remains of the Day"
In 1993, Emma Thompson starred in "The Remains of the Day", a critically acclaimed period drama directed by James Ivory and based on Kazuo Ishiguro's novel. Her performance as a housekeeper earned her a second Best Actress Oscar nomination.
1994: Hollywood Debut in "Junior" and Performance in "Carrington"
In 1994, Emma Thompson made her Hollywood debut in the comedy "Junior", starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito. She also starred in the independent film "Carrington", portraying the artist Dora Carrington.
September 1995: Separation from Kenneth Branagh
Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh announced their separation in September 1995. While initially citing work schedules as the reason, it later came to light that Branagh was involved with actress Helena Bonham Carter.
1995: Academy Award Win for "Sense and Sensibility"
Emma Thompson received the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1995 for her work on the film "Sense and Sensibility," directed by Ang Lee.
1995: Oscar Win for Screenplay and Nomination for Acting in "Sense and Sensibility"
In 1995, Emma Thompson achieved a milestone by becoming the only person to win an Oscar for both acting and screenwriting. She won Best Adapted Screenplay for "Sense and Sensibility", an adaptation of Jane Austen's novel, in which she also starred, earning a Best Actress nomination.
1995: Relationship with Greg Wise and Overcoming Depression
In 1995, during the filming of "Sense and Sensibility," Emma Thompson embarked on a relationship with her co-star, Greg Wise. Thompson credits both Wise and her work with helping her overcome a period of depression following her separation from Branagh.
1996: Break from Screen Acting
Emma Thompson took a break from appearing on screen in 1996.
1997: Return to Screen and Emmy Win for "Ellen"
In 1997, Emma Thompson returned to acting, appearing in Alan Rickman's directorial debut "The Winter Guest". She also guest-starred in an episode of the sitcom "Ellen", for which she won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series.
1998: Critical Acclaim for "Primary Colors"
Emma Thompson's performance in the film "Primary Colors" in 1998 was met with critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actress.
1998: Thompson Stars in "Primary Colors" and "Judas Kiss"
In 1998, Emma Thompson starred in two Hollywood films: "Primary Colors" alongside John Travolta, playing a character inspired by Hillary Clinton, and the thriller "Judas Kiss" with Alan Rickman. While "Primary Colors" was well-received critically, "Judas Kiss" did not fare as well.
1999: Thompson Becomes a Mother
Emma Thompson became a mother in 1999, leading her to prioritize family life and take on fewer acting roles.
2000: Thompson Appears in "Maybe Baby"
In 2000, Thompson made a brief return to the screen in the British comedy "Maybe Baby," directed by her friend Ben Elton.
2001: Television Role in "Wit"
Emma Thompson showcased her dramatic skills in the television film "Wit", released in 2001.
2001: Thompson Stars in HBO's "Wit"
In 2001, Emma Thompson starred in the HBO film "Wit," portraying a Harvard professor facing a cancer diagnosis. Her performance received critical acclaim and earned her award nominations.
2002: Thompson Voices Captain Amelia in "Treasure Planet"
Emma Thompson lent her voice to the character of Captain Amelia in Disney's animated film "Treasure Planet" in 2002.
2003: Marriage to Greg Wise and Adoption of Tindyebwa Agaba
Emma Thompson and Greg Wise married in 2003 in Dunoon. That same year, the couple made the decision to informally adopt Tindyebwa Agaba, a Rwandan orphan and former child soldier they met through the Refugee Council.
2003: Performance in "Angels in America"
Emma Thompson demonstrated her acting versatility in the miniseries "Angels in America", released in 2003.
2003: Cultural Impact of "Love Actually"
Emma Thompson starred in the romantic comedy "Love Actually" in 2003, which became a beloved holiday film and further showcased her range as an actress.
2003: Gregory Murphy Submits Play to Thompson
Gregory Murphy claimed he submitted his play "The Countess" to Emma Thompson in 2003 for consideration in a film adaptation.
2004: Joining the "Harry Potter" Franchise
Emma Thompson joined the cast of the "Harry Potter" film series, appearing as Professor Sybill Trelawney in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban", released in 2004.
2005: "Nanny McPhee" Premieres
"Nanny McPhee," a children's film written by and starring Emma Thompson, was released in 2005. The film, a passion project for Thompson, garnered both critical and commercial success.
2005: Release of "Nanny McPhee"
Emma Thompson starred in and wrote the screenplay for the fantasy comedy film "Nanny McPhee", which was released in 2005.
2005: "The Countess" West End Production
Gregory Murphy's play "The Countess" was staged in London's West End in 2005.
2006: Appearance in "Stranger than Fiction"
Emma Thompson appeared in the critically acclaimed film "Stranger than Fiction" in 2006, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
2007: Thompson Appears in "I Am Legend"
Emma Thompson had an uncredited role in the post-apocalyptic film "I Am Legend," starring Will Smith, in 2007.
2007: Thompson Reprises Role in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"
Emma Thompson returned as Professor Sybill Trelawney in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," the fifth installment in the film series, released in 2007.
2007: Reflection on "The Madwoman in the Attic"
In a 2007 interview, Emma Thompson discussed the profound impact of the book "The Madwoman in the Attic" on her life, crediting it with shaping her feminist views and influencing her career path.
2008: Critical Acclaim and Recognition as a Leading Actress
By 2008, Emma Thompson had cemented her place as one of Britain's most respected actresses. Journalists and critics alike praised her talent, with many highlighting her ability to embody characters authentically and captivate audiences.
2008: Thompson Receives Praise for "Brideshead Revisited"
Despite mixed reviews for the film adaptation of "Brideshead Revisited" in 2008, Emma Thompson's performance as Lady Marchmain was singled out for praise.
2008: Thompson Stars in "Last Chance Harvey"
Emma Thompson starred alongside Dustin Hoffman in the romantic drama "Last Chance Harvey" in 2008. The film and their performances earned critical acclaim and Golden Globe nominations.
2008: Thompson Announces Ruskin Project
In 2008, Emma Thompson announced she was working on a screenplay about John Ruskin with her husband, Greg Wise.
2008: Roger Ebert Praises Thompson's Work in "Wit"
Renowned film critic Roger Ebert, in 2008, lauded Emma Thompson's performance in the 2001 film "Wit" as her finest work.
January 2009: Land Purchase to Protest Heathrow Airport Expansion
In January 2009, Emma Thompson joined three other Greenpeace members in purchasing land near Sipson. Their goal was to obstruct the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport as part of her campaign against climate change.
2009: Role in "An Education"
Emma Thompson appeared in the coming-of-age drama "An Education" in 2009, further showcasing her acting range.
2009: Thompson Makes Cameo Appearances
Emma Thompson made brief appearances in two films set in 1960s England in 2009: the drama "An Education" and Richard Curtis's comedy "The Boat That Rocked."
2009: Named "European Hero" by Time Magazine
Emma Thompson was recognized for her advocacy work in 2009 when Time magazine named her a "European Hero" for her efforts in raising awareness about the plight of AIDS sufferers in Africa.
2009: Tindyebwa Agaba Becomes a British Citizen
Tindyebwa Agaba, informally adopted by Emma Thompson and Greg Wise, became a British citizen in 2009.
2010: Appearance in "The Song of Lunch"
Emma Thompson appeared in the television film "The Song of Lunch" in 2010.
2010: "Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang" Premieres
Emma Thompson reprised her role as Nanny McPhee in the sequel "Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang," released in 2010, which she also wrote. The film was a critical and commercial success.
2010: Criticism of "Sloppy Language"
In 2010, during a talk at her former school, Emma Thompson expressed concerns about the use of what she perceived as "sloppy language" among young people, urging them to use proper grammar and articulate their thoughts clearly.
2010: Public Declaration of Support for the Labour Party
In 2010, during an appearance on the BBC's "Andrew Marr Show," Emma Thompson revealed her longstanding membership in the Labour Party, emphasizing her political stance.
November 29, 2011: Second Revised Screenplay for Effie Gray
On November 29, 2011, Emma Thompson submitted the second revised screenplay for "Effie Gray" as part of a copyright lawsuit.
2011: Thompson's Final Appearance in "Harry Potter" Franchise
Emma Thompson made her final appearance as Professor Trelawney in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2," released in 2011.
2011: Concluding the "Harry Potter" Series
Emma Thompson reprised her role as Professor Sybill Trelawney in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2", marking the end of her involvement in the beloved film franchise, in 2011.
2012: Publication of "The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit"
In 2012, Emma Thompson added to Beatrix Potter's beloved "Peter Rabbit" series with her book, "The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit." The book marked the first authorized addition to the series since 1930.
2012: Men in Black 3 and Brave Released
In 2012, Emma Thompson appeared in the film "Men in Black 3" as the head Agent and voiced Elinor in the Pixar film "Brave".
2012: Voice Acting in "Brave" and "Men in Black 3" Release
In 2012, Emma Thompson lent her voice to the animated film "Brave" and reprised her role as Agent O in "Men in Black 3".
March 2013: Copyright Lawsuit Ruling
In March 2013, a District Court judge ruled that Emma Thompson's screenplay for "Effie Gray" did not infringe on Gregory Murphy's play, but highlighted similarities between the two works.
May 2013: Cannes Premiere Cancellation
The premiere of "Effie Gray" at the Cannes Film Festival was canceled in May 2013.
October 2013: Mill Valley Film Festival Withdrawal
In October 2013, "Effie Gray" was withdrawn from the Mill Valley Film Festival due to unforeseen circumstances.
December 2013: Thompson Expresses Doubts about "Effie Gray"
In December 2013, Emma Thompson expressed doubts about the future of the unreleased film "Effie Gray," comparing it to another unrealized project.
2013: Publication of "The Christmas Tale of Peter Rabbit"
Emma Thompson continued her contributions to the "Peter Rabbit" series with "The Christmas Tale of Peter Rabbit," released in 2013.
2013: Critical Acclaim for "Saving Mr. Banks"
Emma Thompson's performance in "Saving Mr. Banks" in 2013, where she portrayed P.L. Travers, earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations.
2013: Thompson Reflects on "Love Actually" Role
In 2013, Emma Thompson shared that her role in the 2003 film "Love Actually," particularly the scene where her character breaks down, resonated deeply with audiences and was often cited by fans.
2013: Beautiful Creatures Released
In 2013, Emma Thompson starred in the fantasy romance film "Beautiful Creatures", which received poor reviews.
2013: The Love Punch Release
In 2013, Emma Thompson starred in the romantic comedy film "The Love Punch".
March 2014: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
In March 2014, Emma Thompson made her New York stage debut in a production of "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street", receiving critical acclaim for her performance as Mrs. Lovett.
August 2014: Greenpeace "Save the Arctic" Expedition
In August 2014, Emma Thompson, accompanied by her daughter Gaia, embarked on the Greenpeace "Save the Arctic" expedition to highlight the environmental risks associated with oil drilling in the Arctic region.
October 2014: "Effie Gray" Released
The film "Effie Gray", written by and starring Emma Thompson, was released in October 2014 to mixed reviews.
2014: Stage Performance in "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street"
Emma Thompson took on the role of Mrs. Lovett in a Lincoln Center production of Stephen Sondheim's musical "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" in 2014.
2014: Featured in Marks & Spencer's "Leading Ladies" Campaign
In 2014, Emma Thompson joined other prominent British women, such as Annie Lennox and Rita Ora, for Marks & Spencer's "Leading Ladies" marketing campaign.
2014: Publication of "The Spectacular Tale of Peter Rabbit"
In 2014, Emma Thompson released "The Spectacular Tale of Peter Rabbit," her third addition to the "Peter Rabbit" series.
2015: Endorsement of Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Leadership Campaign
Emma Thompson actively supported Jeremy Corbyn's campaign during the 2015 Labour Party leadership election.
2015: A Walk in the Woods and The Legend of Barney Thomson
In 2015, Emma Thompson starred in two films: "A Walk in the Woods" with Robert Redford and Nick Nolte, and "The Legend of Barney Thomson", where she played a memorable role as a Glaswegian former prostitute.
October 2016: Narration of "The Doubt Machine: Inside the Koch Brothers' War on Climate Science"
Emma Thompson provided narration for "The Doubt Machine: Inside the Koch Brothers' War on Climate Science," a documentary short released on October 31, 2016, exposing Koch Industries' attempts to discredit climate change research.
2016: Continued Support for Jeremy Corbyn
Emma Thompson maintained her support for Jeremy Corbyn in the 2016 Labour Party leadership election, reaffirming her political alignment.
2016: Alone in Berlin and Bridget Jones's Baby
In 2016, Emma Thompson starred in the World War II drama "Alone in Berlin" and co-wrote and appeared in "Bridget Jones's Baby".
2017: Voice Acting in "Beauty and the Beast"
Emma Thompson provided the voice for Mrs. Potts in the live-action adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast", released in 2017.
2017: Beauty and the Beast, The Meyerowitz Stories, and The Children Act
In 2017, Emma Thompson appeared in supporting roles in "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Meyerowitz Stories" and starred in the drama "The Children Act".
2017: March for Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe
In 2017, Emma Thompson showed her support for Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, an Iranian-British charity worker imprisoned in Iran, by participating in a march for her release.
2018: Television Role in "King Lear"
Emma Thompson showcased her acting prowess in the television film adaptation of Shakespeare's "King Lear" in 2018.
2018: Interest in Exploring Contemporary Themes in Writing
In 2018, Emma Thompson shared her interest in exploring themes related to the human experience in her writing, suggesting a potential shift in her literary focus.
2018: Damehood for Emma Thompson
In 2018, Emma Thompson was made a Dame (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to drama.
2018: Appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire
In 2018, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon Emma Thompson the honor of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in recognition of her significant contributions to the dramatic arts.
2019: Acclaim for "Late Night" and "Men in Black: International"
Emma Thompson starred in two notable films in 2019, "Late Night" and "Men in Black: International", showcasing her versatility and enduring appeal.
2019: Support for London's Extinction Rebellion Rally
In 2019, Emma Thompson participated in the London Extinction Rebellion rally, demonstrating her support for action against climate change. However, her attendance attracted criticism due to her air travel to the event, sparking a debate about the carbon footprint of such actions.
2019: Career Milestones in Film
In 2019, Emma Thompson starred in several films, including "Late Night," "Missing Link," "Men in Black: International," and "Last Christmas." Her performance in "Late Night" earned her critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.
February 2020: Honorary Citizenship in Venice and Relocation to Italy
Emma Thompson and Greg Wise were granted honorary citizenship of Venice in February 2020. With the purchase of a house in Venice, the couple expressed their intention to make Italy their primary residence while maintaining their home in London.
May 2021: Release and Critical Acclaim for "Cruella"
May 2021 saw the release of Disney's "Cruella," starring Emma Thompson as the villainous Baroness. The film, a live-action adaptation of "101 Dalmations," received positive reviews, with Thompson's performance being particularly praised.
2021: Portrayal of Baroness von Hellman in "Cruella"
Emma Thompson took on the role of the formidable Baroness von Hellman in the live-action Disney film "Cruella", released in 2021.
October 2022: Premiere of "Matilda the Musical"
"Matilda the Musical," featuring Emma Thompson as Miss Trunchbull, premiered at the BFI London Film Festival in October 2022. Critics lauded Thompson's performance, highlighting her portrayal of the tyrannical headmistress.
2022: Appearance in "Matilda the Musical"
Emma Thompson appeared in the film adaptation of "Matilda the Musical", released in 2022.
2022: Performance in "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande"
Emma Thompson starred in the sex comedy-drama "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande" in 2022, sharing the screen with Daryl McCormack.
2022: Critically Acclaimed Performances in "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande" and "Matilda the Musical"
Emma Thompson's performances in "Good Luck to You, Leo Grande" and "Matilda the Musical" in 2022 garnered critical acclaim, showcasing her continued excellence in acting.
2022: Release of "What's Love Got to Do with It?"
In 2022, the romantic comedy "What's Love Got to Do with It?" was released, featuring Emma Thompson alongside Lily James and Sajal Aly.
