Handpicked by Sir Laurence Olivier in 1963 to help cofound Britain’s National Theatre Company, Sir Derek Jacobi quickly emerged as a standout talent. Early in his career, Sir Derek Jacobi made a name for himself in Shakespearean staples like “Hamlet” and “Othello,” showcasing the kind of classical command that would become his hallmark. From there, he smoothly transitioned into major feature films such as The Day of the Jackal (1973) and The Odessa File (1974), where Sir Derek Jacobi proved his versatility beyond the stage.
His star truly ascended with his career-defining performance in I, Claudius (PBS, 1977), a role that brought him international acclaim. Not long after, Sir Derek Jacobi stunned audiences again with a chilling and unforgettable portrayal of one of history’s most infamous figures in Inside the Third Reich (ABC, 1982). Over the years, Sir Derek Jacobi amassed a remarkable collection of accolades—among them a Tony Award, multiple Emmys, the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award, and, in 1994, a well-deserved knighthood.
On television, Sir Derek Jacobi captivated viewers once more as the sharp-witted medieval monk detective in Cadfael (PBS, 1995–99). He continued to shine on both screen and stage, contributing a memorable performance as part of the ensemble cast in The King’s Speech (2010), which went on to win critical and popular acclaim. In 2011, many hailed Sir Derek Jacobi’s interpretation of King Lear on the London stage as nothing short of definitive.
Whether reimagining Shakespeare’s legendary characters, embodying pivotal historical icons, or bringing original depth to modern roles, Sir Derek Jacobi consistently approached each performance with rigorous classical training, bold new insights, and an enduring passion for his craft. With a legacy built on excellence and reinvention, Sir Derek Jacobi remains one of the most respected figures in British theatre and film.
When it comes to Derek Jacobi’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Say Your Prayers (2020) as his standout performance—widely regarded as Derek Jacobi’s highest rated movie. The film showcases Derek Jacobi in a powerful, emotionally charged role that resonated deeply with audiences and earned strong reviews across the board. On the other end of the spectrum, Stratton (2017) tends to come up as Derek Jacobi’s lowest rated film. While the movie had its moments, it didn’t quite hit the mark critically, and Derek Jacobi’s involvement, though notable, couldn’t elevate it to the same level as his other works. Overall, Derek Jacobi continues to deliver compelling performances, but if you’re looking for his best on-screen moment, Say Your Prayers is definitely the one to watch.