Actor Sir ALEC Guinness was an English actor who is best known for his roles in the films 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'Lawrence of Arabia'. He was knighted in 1959 for his services to drama and was also awarded an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'. Guinness was also a prolific stage actor, appearing in over 50 productions during his career. He was also a prolific writer, publishing several books and plays.