John Woodvine, the beloved British actor celebrated for his powerful performances in “The Crown,” “Doctor Who,” and “An American Werewolf in London,” has passed away at the age of 96. His agent, Phil Belfield, confirmed the news, saying the acclaimed performer passed away âpeacefullyâ at his home on Monday morning.
In a touching tribute, Belfield reflected on Woodvineâs extraordinary career and its influence across the stage and screen. Irish Sun posted the tribute as: âJohn was an extraordinary actor and had a fabulous and varied career in all areas of the industry,â he shared. âHe was greatly admired by all and will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by everyone who met, knew, and worked with him. We are all the richer to have known him.â
A Career Spanning Stage, Film & Television
Woodvineâs career spanned over seven decades, with notable credits across theater, television, and film. He appeared in more than 70 stage productions, including at the Old Vic, the National Theatre, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
He gained widespread recognition on screen through performances in “Young Winston,” “An American Werewolf in London,” “Dragonworld,” “Persuasion,” “The Crown,” and, more recently, the 2022 film “Enys Men.”
On television, Woodvine became a familiar face with memorable roles in “Z Cars,” “Doctor Who,” “Midsomer Murders,” “Emmerdale,” and Channel 4âs hit drama “Shameless,” where he portrayed Frank Gallagherâs father, Neville.
Born in South Shields, England, on July 21, 1929, Woodvine trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before joining the Old Vic and later the Royal Shakespeare Company.
His stage work included an acclaimed 1976 performance as Banquo in “Macbeth,” alongside Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench. That same production was later recorded for television.
In 1987, Woodvine won the Olivier Award for Comedy Performance of the Year for his role in “The Henrys” at the Old Vic, cementing his reputation as one of Britainâs finest stage performers.
Tributes Pour In for the Veteran Star
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the entertainment world. Friends, colleagues, and fans remembered Woodvine as âa gentleman of the stageâ and âa brilliant performer with a generous spirit.â
Social media was filled with messages celebrating his immense range and dedication to the craft. âHe could move from regal gravitas to tender warmth in a single breath,â one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Others praised his decades-long impact on British theater, film, and television, calling him âa true master of his generation.â
According to the Daily Mail report, Woodvine is survived by his wife, the actress Lynn Farleigh, and their daughters, Mary and Emma. His passing marks the loss of a towering figure in British performing arts, but his legacy and performances will continue to inspire generations to come.
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