A blue plaque honoring Hollywood legend Cary Grant will be unveiled today in Bishopston, his hometown of Bristol. Arts and Tourism Minister Sir Chris Bryant and Historic England CEO Duncan Wilson are expected to attend the ceremony at 50 Berkeley Road.

Historic England’s national blue plaque scheme, which brings to light the stories of individuals and communities whose histories have been overlooked, is honoring Grant on the 120th anniversary of his birth. Born as Archie Leach in Horfield in 1904, the actor escaped a life of poverty to join an acrobatic troupe at the age of 14. Grant went on to build a film career in the United States that spanned four decades, characterized by his charm, wit, and charisma. As an actor, he excelled in various genres, particularly screwball comedy and thrillers, leaving a lasting impression as a romantic lead and a box office favorite. His notable films include Bringing Up Baby (1938), His Girl Friday (1940), Arsenic And Old Lace (1944), Notorious (1946), To Catch A Thief (1955), North by Northwest (1959), and Charade (1963). He passed away in 1986 at the age of 82.

Barbara Jaynes, Grant’s widow, expressed: “He held dear the memories of his early years, and I can only imagine the joy he would have felt knowing that his roots would be commemorated in such a meaningful way.” Jaynes added, “Cary often reminisced fondly about his childhood in Bristol, where his journey began. Cary’s charisma, talent, and charm captivated audiences worldwide, yet he always remained grounded and proud of his origins. He would have been delighted to see his childhood home recognized, serving as an inspiration for future generations to ‘dream big’ and pursue their passions. This national blue plaque is a beautiful tribute to his humble beginnings and the extraordinary path he forged in Hollywood and beyond.”

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, stated: “We are thrilled to unveil a plaque to film star Cary Grant, at his early childhood home in Bristol. His iconic performances are part of film history, but before his meteoric rise to fame in Hollywood, he had humble origins.” Wilson continued, “Through this blue plaque, we can physically memorialize and celebrate this remarkable actor’s connection to Bristol, a UNESCO city of film, and we hope it inspires generations to follow their dreams too.”

Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant MP also emphasized how a working-class boy from Bristol became one of Hollywood’s brightest stars: “As one of the city's most admired sons, this blue plaque will allow Bristolians to celebrate his legacy while serving as a reminder to aspiring actors and artists to follow their dreams whatever their circumstances.”

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