The Crown and An American Werewolf in London actor John Woodvine dies aged 96 

A British actor known for An American Werewolf In London and Netflix’s The Crown has died aged 96.

John Woodvine, who was born in South Tyneside, England, on July 21, 1929, died ‘peacefully’ in his home on Monday morning, according to his agent.

As well as starring in the 1981 horror comedy An American Werewolf In London, he is also known for his role as Detective Inspector Witty in the 1960s BBC police drama Z Cars.

At the start of his career, Woodvine enjoyed a long stint with the Royal Shakespeare Company and performed as Banquo in Macbeth, alongside Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.

He went on to win the Olivier Award for Comedy Performance of the Year in 1987 for his role in The Henrys at the Old Vic.

The 96-year-old also appeared in Oliver’s Travels, Doctor Who, as Marshal of Atrios, and starred alongside Joe Don Baker and Bob Peck in the mystery drama Edge Of Darkness.

In 2006’s Miss Potter, starring Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor, he played a supporting character before going on to be Frank Gallagher’s father Neville in Channel 4 comedy drama Shameless.

And in The Crown he played the Archbishop of York in four episodes of the series.

A full statement from Woodvine’s agent, Phil Belfield, read: ‘John was an extraordinary actor and had a fabulous and varied career in all areas of the industry including work on stage in over 70 productions including at the Old Vic, National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company, and on screen in numerous roles including in Young Winston, An American Werewolf In London, Dragonworld, Persuasion, The Crown and most recently in the film Enys Men.

‘John was greatly admired by all and will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all those who met, knew and worked with him.

‘We are all the richer to have known him.’

Woodvine was married to his wife, actress Lynn Farleigh, and is survived by his children Emma and Mary, who is also an actress.

On May 11 2012 Woodvine collapsed offstage during a performance of the musical Carousel at the Grand Theatre, Leeds, shortly after his appearance as the Starkeeper.

Although the reason for the collapse was unknown, he was admitted to hospital and made a full recovery.

Woodvine is survived by his wife, actress Lynn Farleigh, and his children Mary and Emma.

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