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Born Brian Williams, he trained for the stage at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, beginning his professional stage career at age 17; after appearing in many plays over several years he developed into a popular leading man with the Liverpool Repertory and on the West End. In 1929 he came to the U.S. to appear on Broadway, shortly thereafter debuting onscreen in the American production of Charlie's Aunt (1930). He played leads and supporting roles in many British and some Hollywood films, remaining consistently busy onscreen until 1942 and then again from 1946-52. He wrote several plays, sometimes in collaboration with his wife, Margaret Vyner.