Renowned actor Bernard Hill, known for his roles in iconic films such as “Lord of the Rings” and “Titanic,” has passed away at the age of 79, confirmed by his agent. Hill gained acclaim for his portrayal of King Theoden in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and Captain Edward Smith in the Oscar-winning film “Titanic.”
Born in Blackley, Manchester, in 1944, Hill graduated with a diploma in theatre in 1970 and was married to fellow actor Marianna Hill, with whom he had a son. His agent, Lou Coulson, announced his passing in the early hours of Sunday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike.
Described as a true gentleman and extremely talented artist, Hill was cherished by his management company, Optimism Entertainment.
They expressed their deepest condolences to his family and mourned the loss of a remarkable individual. Despite his passing, Hill’s legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, which includes memorable performances in both film and television.
In addition to his film roles, Hill was set to return to television screens in the second series of Martin Freeman’s BBC drama “The Responder.” Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, praised Hill’s illustrious career, highlighting his diverse and iconic roles.
Fans and colleagues alike have begun paying tribute to Hill on social media, reminiscing about his contributions to the entertainment industry and sharing fond memories of working with him.
As the world mourns the loss of a talented actor, Hill’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe.