Veteran British performer John Woodvine has passed away at 96. According to an announcement from his representative Phil Belfield, the actor died peacefully in his residence on Monday morning.
Mr Woodvine enjoyed a distinguished career spanning multiple decades in British entertainment. His most recognisable screen appearance came in the 1981 horror-comedy An American Werewolf in London.
Television audiences knew him as Detective Inspector Witty from the 1960s BBC police series Z Cars, whilst more recently he featured in the Netflix drama The Crown.
His representative described him as "an extraordinary actor" who enjoyed "a fabulous and varied career" across all entertainment sectors.
John Woodvine has died at 96
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The statement emphasised that Mr Woodvine was "greatly admired by all" and would be "sadly missed and fondly remembered" by colleagues and acquaintances throughout the industry.
His theatrical achievements were particularly notable, with appearances in more than 70 stage productions.
These included performances at prestigious venues such as the Old Vic, National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company.
At the RSC, he portrayed Banquo in Macbeth, performing alongside Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.
John Woodvine in 1972
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His stage work earned him the Olivier Award for Comedy Performance of the Year in 1987 for his performance in The Henrys at the Old Vic.
Beyond theatre, Mr Woodvine's screen credits encompassed roles in Young Winston, Dragonworld and Persuasion.
He featured in Oliver's Travels and Doctor Who, where he played the Marshal of Atrios. Additional television appearances included the mystery drama Edge of Darkness with Joe Don Baker and Bob Peck.
Woodvine entered the world on 21st July 1929. He leaves behind his spouse, performer Lynn Farleigh, along with daughters Mary and Emma.
John Woodvine performing in Macbeth in 1964
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His agent's tribute highlighted how "we are all the richer to have known him", emphasising the profound effect Woodvine had on those in his professional circle.
Many paid tributes on social media following the news, with one fan writing: "John was an exemplary British character actor with an impressive list of credits.
"There weren’t many cult favourites he didn’t appear in over the years. Outside of the obvious, Knights Of God is one I fondly remember. R.I.P. John Woodvine."
A second penned: "That's really sad. John Woodvine," while another added: "Farewell, John Woodvine."
"RIP John Woodvine, brilliant as The Marshal in Doctor Who's Armageddon Factor," another shared.
"RIP to the great actor John Woodvine. Not too many veterans of the classic age of British drama left now," another wrote.
"RIP to Doctor Who, American Werewolf In London, When The Boat Comes In and a million more productions legend John Woodvine! Only saw an episode of Vera with him in it the other day! 96 is a great age!" someone else wrote.
Mr Woodvine's later career included a supporting part in the 2006 film Miss Potter, where he acted alongside Renée Zellweger and Ewan McGregor.
John Woodvine in Hamlet in 1970
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Television viewers may also recall his portrayal of Frank Gallagher's father Neville in Channel 4's comedy-drama Shameless.
Most recently, Mr Woodvine appeared in the film Enys Men, demonstrating his continued dedication to his craft well into his nineties.
His final screen appearance in Enys Men showcased his enduring commitment to acting, maintaining an active career into his tenth decade.
The breadth of his work, from classic horror-comedy to prestige television drama, demonstrated remarkable versatility throughout his lengthy career.
Mr Woodvine's contributions to British entertainment spanned over six decades, encompassing memorable performances across stage and screen.
His legacy includes collaborations with some of Britain's most celebrated actors and appearances in productions that have become cultural touchstones.