Denis O'Neill is an Irish actor best known for his roles as Colonel Cutshaw in Stanley Kubrick's classic science fiction film, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and as King Stephen in the British television series The Black Adder. He has also appeared in films such as The Return of the Pink Panther, The Omen, The Boys from Brazil, The Boys in the Band, and The Year of the Dragon.
Born in County Cork, Ireland in 1925, Denis O'Neill began his career as an actor in the late 1940s. He started out performing in various stage productions, including a production of The Importance of Being Earnest. He then moved on to television, appearing in shows such as The Adventures of Robin Hood, The Avengers, and The Saint. In 1968, he was cast in Stanley Kubrick's classic science fiction film, 2001: A Space Odyssey, as the voice of Colonel Cutshaw.
In 1979, O'Neill was cast in the British television series, The Black Adder, as King Stephen. He played the part of a wise old king who often provided guidance to the main character, Edmund Blackadder. The show was a major success and O'Neill's performance was much praised. He also appeared in the sequel, Blackadder II, which was broadcast in 1986.
As well as appearing in films and television shows, O'Neill has also provided voice work for several animated films, including The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. He has also provided voices for the video games Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2, and Halo 3.
Throughout his career, Denis O'Neill has earned a reputation as a highly reliable and versatile actor. He has been nominated for several awards, including the BAFTA and Emmy Awards. He has also been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
While O'Neill is now retired, he remains one of the most beloved and respected actors in the industry. He has a long and distinguished career, playing a variety of characters in film and television, as well as providing his voice to a number of animated films and video games. He continues to be a source of inspiration for aspiring actors.
