Scottish actor Donald Douglas, celebrated for his portrayal of Admiral Darcy in the Bridget Jones film series, has passed away at the age of 92.
The Falkirk-born performer died in hospital in Albi, France, on January 14 following a short illness.
Mr Douglas brought to life the father of Colin Firth's beloved character Mark Darcy across three instalments of the romantic comedy franchise.
He featured in Bridget Jones's Diary, its sequel The Edge of Reason, and the third film Bridget Jones's Baby.
Donald Douglas in Poldark, 1975
|IMDB
His family announced the news through an online obituary notice, stating: "Dear family and friends, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Douglas on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in Albi."
Close friend Meredith Wheeler shared a heartfelt tribute to Mr Douglas on YouTube, describing him as "talented in so many ways apart from acting and performing."
Ms Wheeler remembered him as "a playful and gifted artist" who worked across multiple creative mediums, from sculpture to painting, and possessed expertise in ceramic restoration.
Beyond his artistic pursuits, Mr Douglas was remembered for his culinary skills and hospitality. "He laid a beautiful table and was a fabulous cook," Ms Wheeler said.
Donald Douglas in Sense and Sensibility, 1981
|IMDB
"It was a joy to attend a meal at his beautiful home with his partner, Emma Temple."
The tribute also highlighted his passion for horse riding alongside Emma, his devotion to his dogs, and his remarkable gardening abilities.
Ms Wheeler described Douglas as having "an impish sense of humor and a generous heart."
Mr Douglas is survived by his partner Emma Temple, his three daughters Amy, Liza and Jodie, and five grandchildren.
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Donald Douglas has died at 91
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The actor had made France his home for many years, settling in the Tarn department where he became a valued member of the local community.
Ms Wheeler noted that Mr Douglas "was much loved and appreciated by his community in the Tarn where he operated an English-speaking theatre for many years, performing, directing and producing—adding to the cultural life of the region."
His theatrical endeavours in southern France allowed him to continue his passion for performance well beyond his screen career, bringing English-language drama to audiences in the area.
The family has invited those wishing to honour his memory to plant a memorial tree in his name.
Mr Douglas enjoyed a prolific career spanning several decades across television and film.
During the 1970s, he took on the role of Captain Malcolm McNeil in the period drama Poldark, while Scottish audiences knew him well from his long-running part as Peter Cunningham in the soap opera Take The High Road, appearing in 37 episodes.
His filmography included the war epic A Bridge Too Far and Highlander: Endgame.
Television viewers would have spotted him in guest appearances on numerous popular programmes, among them EastEnders, Casualty, Poirot, Doctor Who, The Avengers, Taggart, Kavanagh QC, The Crown and Monarch of the Glen.
His final screen performance came in the 2021 drama Nobody Has To Know, bringing to a close a distinguished acting career.