SIR JOHN GIELGUD, who has died aged 96, —

— “was challenged only by Laurence Oliver for the title of greatest English actor of the 20th century.” – The Telegraph (UK)

CLASSICAL ACTOR: “He was the last survivor of that triumvirate of legendary theatrical knights – Laurence Olivier, Sir Ralph Richardson and Sir John – who dominated acting in England and vitalized Shakespeare in what became a golden age of classical theater.” – New York Times

THEATERS GO DARK FOR GIELGUD: Sir John continued working until a month ago, but had taken a break from working because of his failing health. – BBC

“History’s greatest speaker of Shakespearean verse.” – The Globe and Mail (Canada)

He “had the most perfect male vocal instrument of them all, and no one who heard it on stage or on screen will likely ever forget it.” – Los Angeles Times