Celebrated actor Bernard Hill, renowned for his iconic roles in blockbuster hits such as Titanic and Lord of the Rings, has sadly passed away at the age of 79.
Hill, whose illustrious career spanned decades, captivated audiences with his portrayal of Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 Oscar-winning film Titanic, and King Théoden in the epic fantasy trilogy Lord of the Rings.
However, it was his unforgettable performance as Yosser Hughes in the 1982 BBC TV drama Boys from the Blackstuff that etched his name into the annals of television history. As Yosser Hughes, Hill portrayed a character grappling with the harsh realities of unemployment in Liverpool, delivering a mesmerizing portrayal that resonated deeply with audiences.
Confirming his passing, his agent Lou Coulson stated that Hill died early on Sunday morning, surrounded by his fiancée Alison and his son Gabriel.
Alan Bleasdale, the acclaimed writer behind Boys from the Blackstuff, expressed his profound sorrow at Hill’s passing, describing it as “a great loss and also a great surprise.” Bleasdale hailed Hill’s performance as Yosser Hughes as “astonishing” and “mesmeric,” noting that Hill poured his heart and soul into the role, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.
“I was desperate to work with him,” Bleasdale remarked. “Everything he did – his whole procedure for working, the manner in which he worked, and his performance – was everything that you could ever wish for.”
Bernard Hill’s remarkable talent and contributions to the world of film and television will continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans around the globe.