Laurence Olivier: A Biography is a penetrating portrait of the legendary actor, blending his towering artistic achievements with the private struggles that shaped him. Drawing on extensive interviews and archival materials, Spoto traces Olivier’s difficult childhood, his turbulent marriages—especially to Vivien Leigh—his affairs, rivalries with fellow actors, and the stabilizing influence of Joan Plowright, while also chronicling his defining stage and film roles. With psychological insight and critical depth, the book reveals how Olivier’s personal pain and relentless pursuit of perfection fueled his brilliance, offering a vivid, balanced account of one of the 20th century’s greatest performers.