Page last updated at 18:22 GMT, Thursday, 25 December 2008

In pictures: Harold Pinter

Harold Pinter

Nobel Prize-winning playwright Harold Pinter died aged 78 on Christmas Eve after suffering from cancer.

Pinter playing the lead role in a production of 'The Homecoming'

One of the most influential modern playwrights, he wrote over 30 plays including The Homecoming and The Birthday Party.

Pinter in 1961 with first wife Vivian and son Daniel

He married twice, first to actress Vivien Merchant with whom he had a son, Daniel, then biographer Lady Antonia Fraser in 1980.

Pinter and Lady Antonia Fraser

Lady Antonia Fraser, paid tribute to him, saying: "He was a great, and it was a privilege to live with him for over 33 years."

Pinter being received by the Queen

Pinter was appointed CBE in 1966, a Companion of Honour in 2002, but turned down a knighthood from John Major.

Pinter in 2005 after winning the Nobel Prize

The citation for his Nobel prize said "in his plays he uncovers the precipice in everyday prattle and forces entry into oppression's closed rooms".

Harold Pinter

Pinter summed up his career in a 1995 interview: "Quite simply, my writing life has been one of relish, challenge, excitement."

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