Harvey moved to England in 1946 after a spell in South Africa and made his film debut two years later. He went on to establish himself as a leading talent of the 1950s and 60s, noted for his confidence and cool charm. Harvey's role as the womanizing social climber in the 1959 classic "Room at the Top" led to parts in prestigous Hollywood films, including "Butterfield 8" (1960) opposite Elizabeth Taylor and "The Manchurian Candidate" (1962) with Frank Sinatra. He also directed two films. Harvey died of cancer at age 45.