By Rosie Williams
Hollywood actor, Brian Cox, has been named an Honorary Doctor of Letters by Kingston University in recognition of his tireless work in drama education.
Four decades
The Scottish thespian, whose career has spanned four decades, has starred in films such as The Bourne Supremacy, Rise of the Planet of the Apes and X2: X-Men United.
Mr Cox, who was born in 1946, said: “It’s a huge buzz for me to receive this honorary degree, especially as it’s the first time I have received any kind of honour from an English university.”
Innovative programme
In the 1990s Mr Cox created an innovative programme for British students to study at Moscow Arts Theatre School and he has been associated with actor training for many years.
Professor Ian Brown, from Kingston University’s School of Performance and Screen Studies, said: “Brian has shown great interest in the training of young actors and in youth theatre. He truly understands that the arts are part of our community.”
Classic
In Manhunter, Mr Cox was the first actor to play Hannibal Lecter on film and it is a performance that is remembered as a classic.
“I remember Kingston when it was a very successful polytechnic and I know it has a great tradition of quality education,” he said. “It’s always great to get recognition from one of the newer institutions.”
Mr Cox has a sustained interest in higher education and is the Rector of Dundee University, after being elected by students into the ancient role.