James Booth

James Booth, born as David Noel Geeves on 19 December 1927, was a renowned English actor and screenwriter associated with stage, film, and television. Booth is best known for his breakthrough performance as Private Henry Hook in the movie Zulu. He was active in the industry from 1958 till 2005, during which he showcased a unique blend of toughness, potential evil, and irresistible charm which was applauded by Variety. Born in Croydon, Surrey, Booth was the son of Salvation Army officers and he moved frequently during his early years. He endured the hardship of his father's death at a young age and was raised by his mother who remarried.

Booth completed his education at Southend Grammar School and later joined the army, where he trained recruits and rose to the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he worked for an international trading company, only to realize his real passion was acting. In pursuit of this passion, he secured a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where he studied with the likes of Albert Finney, Peter O'Toole, Alan Bates, and Richard Harris. After his first professional appearance in Timon of Athens in 1956, he made his cinematic debut in The Narrowing Circle the same year. He later joined Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop and rose to fame quickly. With his tall height, commanding presence, and unpretentious manner, Booth created a place for himself in the hearts of the audience. His career took a turn when he played the lead role in the film Sparrows Can't Sing and this was followed by his memorable performance in Zulu. In his later years, he shifted his focus to screenwriting when acting roles became scarce. Booth passed away on 11 August 2005.