Actor Bernard Hill, renowned for his roles in “Titanic” and “Lord of the Rings,” passed away at the age of 79.
In the 1997 blockbuster “Titanic,” Hill portrayed Captain Edward Smith, while he brought King Théoden to life in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Bernard Hill’s career took off with his portrayal of Yosser Hughes in the 1982 BBC TV drama “Boys from the Blackstuff.” The character struggled with unemployment in Liverpool, showcasing Hill’s talent for portraying complex and challenging roles.
His agent, Lou Coulson, confirmed Hill’s passing early on Sunday morning, with his fiancée Alison and son Gabriel by his side.
Alan Bleasdale, the writer of “Boys from the Blackstuff,” expressed his shock and sorrow at Hill’s death, praising his captivating performance as Yosser Hughes.
Bernard Hill, originally from Manchester and residing in Suffolk, was set to appear in the second series of the BBC drama “The Responder,” starring Martin Freeman, which premieres soon.
Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, honored Bernard Hill’s legacy, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to television.
Bernard Hill’s portrayal of Yosser Hughes in “Boys from the Blackstuff” earned critical acclaim, with the series winning a BAFTA and ranking among the top TV shows by the British Film Institute.
In addition to his iconic role in “Boys from the Blackstuff,” Bernard Hill delivered a memorable performance as the Duke of Norfolk in the BBC’s “Wolf Hall” series.
His role in Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy further solidified his status as a beloved actor, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.
Colleagues and fans, including Lord of the Rings co-star Dominic Monaghan and Scottish musician Barbara Dickson, paid tribute to Hill, reflecting on his talent and impact on the industry.
Hill’s diverse career also included appearances in notable productions such as “I, Claudius,” “Gandhi,” “Shirley Valentine,” “The Scorpion King,” and “Valkyrie.”
Despite his passing, Bernard Hill’s legacy as a versatile and talented actor will continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
