Today, the film industry mourns the passing of renowned actor Bernard Hill at the age of 79. Hill’s agent, Lou Coulson, confirmed the actor’s death occurred early Sunday morning, as reported by the BBC.
Familiar with Hill’s face but not his name? The actor’s career began in the 1970s, and a breakout role as Yosser Hughes in “Boys from the Blackstuff” brought Hill fame. Yosser’s portrayal of the complexities of unemployment resonated with audiences, and Hill’s career flourished from there.
Hill’s notable roles include Captain Edward Smith in James Cameron’s Titanic, who witnessed the vessel’s tragic maiden voyage. In Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy, he portrayed Theoden, the King of Rohan.
Hill garnered critical acclaim for his portrayal of Luther Plunkitt in Clint Eastwood’s “True Crime.” His recent appearance in “Forever Now” as Oscar Smith further extended his extensive filmography. According to the BBC, Hill was slated to join the cast of “The Responder” season two alongside Martin Freeman prior to his passing.
BBC Drama director Lindsay Salt paid tribute to Bernard Hill’s legacy: “Bernard blazed a trail across the screen, his career filled with iconic roles in ‘Boys from the Blackstuff,’ ‘Wolf Hall,’ ‘The Responder,’ and more. We feel privileged to have worked with him. Our condolences go out to his loved ones.”
We extend our deepest condolences to Hill’s family and friends during this time of profound sorrow.