Richard Grant Esterhuysen was born in Swaziland (now Eswatini) in 1957. He decided early on that he wanted to be an actor. His father tried to discourage him.
At 10 years old, he attempted to do a Mary Poppins and jumped off the garage roof with just an umbrella. The result, a broken arm. At 14, he wrote a fan letter to Barbra Streisand. Forty-seven years later, after being nominated for an Academy Award, he received a reply from the mega-star.
As an adult, when he moved to England, Equity advised there was already an actor with that name registered with them. Richard E Grant was born.
Many films were being made about ‘the troubles’ in Northern Ireland and his agent suggested getting accent coaching. He went to the Actors Centre and met Joan Washington. They quickly moved in together and they married in 1986. Joan died in September 2021. She said to Grant a few days before her death, ‘You’re going to be alright. Try to find a pocketful of happiness in every single day.’
Grant’s latest book gives an account of the final months after Joan is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. It’s harrowing, emotional and candid. To lighten the mood there are fascinating anecdotes and intriguing details of visits from friends and relatives. The then Prince of Wales pops over to say his final farewell and Nigella Lawson sends a hamper every Sunday.
A Pocketful of Happiness is a loving memoir of a successful marriage.
Reviewed by Clive Hodges
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Richard E Grant is in no way related to Hugh Grant! Though they are quite good friends.
Born and raised in Swaziland, Richard E. Grant wears a watch on both wrists. One belongs to his late father and is set to Swaziland time.
Richard studied drama at Cape Town University where he co-founded the Troupe Theatre Company. He moved to London in 1982 and worked in theatre until he got his big break with the cult hit “Withnail and I” in 1986.
Since then, Richard has appeared in over 80 movies, with some of Hollywood’s leading directors and actors. He’s also written three books, and appeared in many theatre productions.
He’s married to dialect coach Joan Washington and they live together in London with their daughter Olivia.
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