Laurence Olivier honored with blue plaque at London childhood home

Key facts

• A blue plaque honoring actor Laurence Olivier was unveiled at his childhood home at 22 Lupus Street in Pimlico, London.
• Fellow actor Ian McKellen unveiled the plaque.
• Olivier lived at the property between the ages of five and 12.
• The plaque commemorates Olivier's significant impact on British theatre and film.
• The blue plaque program is run by English Heritage.

A blue plaque honoring the acclaimed British actor Laurence Olivier was unveiled at his childhood home at 22 Lupus Street in Pimlico, London. Fellow actor Ian McKellen unveiled the plaque, celebrating Olivier's formative years and lasting impact on British theatre and film.

Olivier lived at the property between the ages of five and 12, where he reportedly discovered his talent for acting. McKellen remarked on Olivier's enduring legacy, noting how his memory lives on through numerous avenues, including the National Theatre and awards ceremony named in his honor.

Indhu Rubasingham, artistic director of the National Theatre, spoke of Olivier's courage and vision in establishing the company from scratch. The plaque program, run by English Heritage, commemorates notable individuals who resided in London.