Beginnings of Acting Career
In the 1970s, Pierce began acting in London. He was handpicked by legendary playwright Tennessa Williams to star in The Red Devil Battery Sign. In the 1980s he transitioned into films. His first big role was opposite Helen Mirren in The Long Good Friday. He also starred in a TV mini-series called The Manions of America which introduced him to American audiences.
Gaining Recognition
The Manions of America was a success and made Pierce very popular. He was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Globe’s in 1985 for his role as Robert Gould Shaw II in the theatre documentary about Lady Nancy Astor, the first woman to sit in British Parliament.