'LOTR': 10 Facts About Sean Bean

Before making a name for himself in film and television, Sean Bean honed his craft on the stage. His theater work includes performances in productions like 'Macbeth' and 'Richard III' at the Royal Shakespeare Company. His stage experience significantly influenced his acting style and helped him build a strong foundation for his film career.

Bean is an avid cricket fan and has played the sport since childhood. His love for cricket is well-known among his friends and family, and he has even expressed a desire to have been a professional cricketer if not for his acting career. His passion for the sport remains a significant part of his personal life.

Sean’s career began in a rather unconventional way. He initially worked as a mill worker and a painter before deciding to pursue acting full-time. His transition from manual labor to the stage demonstrates his dedication and determination to succeed in the competitive world of acting.

Bean made his film debut in the 1984 drama 'Caravaggio,' directed by Derek Jarman. Despite the film’s modest profile at the time, it showcased Bean’s potential and marked the beginning of his successful career in cinema.

In addition to his on-screen roles, Bean has made significant contributions to voice acting. He voiced "Martin" in the video game 'The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion' and "Edward" in the game 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – Legend.' His distinctive voice has added depth to various characters in the gaming world.

Bean is famously known for his characters meeting unfortunate ends in many of his roles. From "Boromir" in 'The Lord of the Rings' to "Ned Stark" in 'Game of Thrones,' his characters often face dramatic and fatal outcomes. This has led to a lighthearted reputation as an actor whose characters are prone to dying on the screen.

Sean is involved in various charitable activities. He supports organizations like the Royal British Legion, which aids veterans and their families. His philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to giving back to the community and supporting important causes. He continues to champion causes in education as well.

Bean has explored a wide range of genres and characters throughout his career, from historical dramas to modern thrillers. His diverse roles include the villainous "Sykes" in 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' and the heroic "Osmund" in 'Black Death,' showcasing his ability to tackle varied and complex characters.

He is known for his dedication to portraying historically accurate characters. For his role as "Richard Sharpe" in the 'Sharpe' series, he immersed himself in the historical context of the Napoleonic Wars, studying military tactics and historical details to enhance his performance. He even played the Greek hero "Odysseus" in 'Troy.'

Outside of his acting career, Bean is an avid reader with a particular interest in classic literature. He has mentioned his admiration for works by authors such as Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy, reflecting his appreciation for timeless literary classics.