LORDS OF THE RINGS CAST MOURNS CO-STAR BERNARD HILL
LONDON — The world is mourning the loss of Bernard Hill, known for his role as King Théoden in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, who passed away at the age of 79.
The beloved actor’s co-stars from the iconic films, including Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, and Sean Astin, came together at Comic Con in Liverpool to bid farewell to their “funny, gruff, beautiful” friend, whom they considered a family member.
Hill, who was set to appear at the Merseyside event, unfortunately had to cancel and later passed away early Sunday morning.
His fellow actors shared heartfelt memories of Hill’s talent and spirit, with Astin reflecting on his intrepid and irascible nature, while Boyd praised his unparalleled delivery of Tolkien’s words with realism.
With his fiancée Alison and son Gabriel by his side, Hill left behind a legacy that spanned from his role in The Lord of the Rings to his captivating performances in Titanic and Boys from the Blackstuff.
Alan Bleasdale, the writer of Boys from the Blackstuff, expressed shock at Hill’s passing, highlighting his mesmerizing portrayal of Yosser Hughes and his undeniable strength and talent.
Hill’s impact extended beyond TV and film, with his upcoming appearance in The Responder and previous roles in Wolf Hall and I, Claudius showcasing his versatility and lasting influence in the industry.
As fans and colleagues alike mourned the loss of a remarkable actor, tributes poured in from across the entertainment world, with Scottish musician Barbara Dickson praising Hill as “a really marvellous actor” and expressing gratitude for having crossed paths with him.
Amidst the outpouring of grief, Hill’s memory lives on through his unforgettable performances and enduring legacy in the world of entertainment. Rest in peace, Bernard Hill. – BBC
