#OTD 1975: David Niven recalled his first movie lines and some disastrous early publicity stunts. Lions and parrots and bares up high! | BBC Archive

"David Niven and his wife, Hjördis Genberg, are seen posing with their beloved dog outside their chalet in Château-d’Œx, Switzerland, circa 1958. Nestled in the Vaud Alps, this picturesque setting became the couple’s longtime retreat from Hollywood’s glare. Niven, already an Academy Award-winning actor, had married Swedish model and actress Genberg in 1948 after the tragic passing of his first wife, Primula Rollo. The couple settled into the Swiss countryside by the early 1950s, drawn by its ser

Nationwide met actor and writer David Niven #OnThisDay in 1973. | BBC Archive

"David Niven and his wife, Hjördis Niven, were photographed at the 31st Academy Awards in 1959, a night of triumph when Niven won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in Separate Tables. Held at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, the ceremony celebrated his elegant and nuanced performance, which critics praised as one of the finest of his career. Standing proudly beside him, Hjördis embodied grace and support, sharing in a milestone moment that marked Niven’s place among the greats of cinema. T

#OnThisDay 1910: David Niven was born in London. In 1975, he recalled his first movie lines and some disastrous early publicity stunts with Michael Parkinson. | BBC Archive