10 fun and interesting Peter Ustinov facts

1. Wit and Charm in Six Decades

Peter Ustinov was a renowned wit and raconteur, renowned for his captivating storytelling and sharp wit. He was a regular fixture on television talk shows and lecture circuits, where he would regale audiences with his stories and anecdotes. His career spanned over six decades, during which time he was a celebrated guest on many of the world's most popular talk shows, and a sought-after speaker at universities and other events. His wit and charm made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to experience his unique brand of humor.

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2. A renowned actor, intellectual, and diplomat

Peter Ustinov was a renowned actor, intellectual, and diplomat. He was a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF and President of the World Federalist Movement, and held various academic posts. He was highly respected for his work in these fields, and was a passionate advocate for the rights of children and the promotion of world peace.

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3. A Multi-Talented Artist Who Excelled in Many Fields

Peter Ustinov was a multi-talented artist who excelled in many fields. He was a renowned filmmaker, theatre and opera director, stage designer, author, screenwriter, comedian, humorist, newspaper and magazine columnist, radio broadcaster and television presenter. His works have been praised for their wit and intelligence, and he was awarded numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, four Emmy Awards, a Grammy Award, and a BAFTA Award. He was also a member of the Order of Merit and a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. His legacy lives on in his works, which continue to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.

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4. A Renaissance Man of the Arts

Peter Ustinov was a true Renaissance man, displaying a remarkable cultural versatility that earned him the highest of accolades. His talents spanned the arts, from acting to writing, and he was a master of many languages. He was also a renowned humanitarian, having been appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF in the 1960s. Ustinov's unique ability to bridge cultures and bring people together was truly remarkable.

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5. " Klop, the Nickname That Stuck"

As a child, Peter Ustinov was affectionately known as "Klop" - a nickname derived from the Russian word for "bed-bug". This endearing moniker was given to him by his family and friends, and it stuck with him throughout his life. Ustinov was a renowned actor, writer, director, and humanitarian, and his legacy continues to live on today.

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6. A Master of His Craft

The illustrious Peter Ustinov was a true master of his craft, having won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor, as well as Emmy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTA Awards for his acting. He also earned a Grammy Award for best recording for children. His accomplishments were recognized by governments around the world, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, who bestowed upon him various honors.

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7. A Man of Many Cultures

Peter Ustinov was a man of many cultures, with a unique heritage that included Russian, German, Jewish, and Ethiopian noble descent. His diverse background was a source of great pride for him, and he often drew upon his varied cultural influences in his work as an actor, writer, and director. Ustinov was a true global citizen, and his life and career were a testament to the power of embracing one's diverse heritage.

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8. First Russian-Origin Actor to Win an Oscar

Peter Ustinov was a remarkable actor, and he made history when he became the first man of known Russian descent to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. His win was a major milestone for the Russian community, and it was a testament to his immense talent and hard work. Ustinov was a highly acclaimed actor, and his Oscar win was a crowning achievement in his illustrious career.

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9. Peter Ustinov Honored by Hungarian-American Composer

The renowned actor and director Peter Ustinov was honored by the Hungarian-American composer Miklós Rózsa, who dedicated his String Quartet No. 1, Op. 22 (1950) to him. This work was composed for the film Quo Vadis, for which Rózsa won an Academy Award for Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture. The quartet is a highly acclaimed piece of music, and is considered one of Rózsa's most important works.

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10. Durham University honors Peter Ustinov with new college

In 2003, Durham University paid tribute to the late Peter Ustinov, an Academy Award-winning actor, writer, director, and humanitarian, by changing the name of its Graduate Society to Ustinov College. This was in recognition of his significant contributions to the university, which included being an honorary graduate, a patron of the university's Institute of Advanced Study, and a frequent visitor to the university. Ustinov College is now a thriving hub of student life, providing a range of services and activities for its members.