British actors died at age 75
Here are 29 famous actors from United Kingdom died at 75:
Basil Rathbone
Basil Rathbone (June 13, 1892 Johannesburg-July 21, 1967 New York City) also known as Philip St. John Basil Rathbone, Ratters, Sir Basil Rathbone or Philip St. John Basil Rathbone, MC was a British actor, soldier and voice actor. His children are called John Rodion and Cynthia Rathbone.
He died caused by myocardial infarction.
Rathbone is best known for his role as Sherlock Holmes in the 1939 film "The Hound of the Baskervilles" and its sequels. He also appeared in other notable films such as "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and "The Mark of Zorro". Rathbone had a successful career on the stage as well, starring in several Broadway productions including "The Heiress" and "Julius Caesar". During World War I, he served as a captain in the British Army and was later awarded the Military Cross for his service. In addition to his acting career, Rathbone lent his voice to several animated films, including Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad". He was married twice and had two children with his second wife, Ouida Bergère.
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Alastair Sim
Alastair Sim (October 9, 1900 Edinburgh-August 19, 1976 London) also known as Alastair George Bell Sim, Alistair Sim or Alastair George Bell Sim, CBE was a British actor, laborer, clerk, teacher and film director. He had one child, Merlith McKendrick.
He died in lung cancer.
Alastair Sim is best known for his roles in classic films such as "Scrooge" (1951), "The Belles of St. Trinian's" (1954), and "Hue and Cry" (1947). He was a versatile actor and appeared in a wide range of films, from comedies to dramas. Sim was also a successful stage actor and appeared in a number of productions in London's West End throughout his career. In addition to his acting work, Sim was an accomplished academic and taught at several universities in Scotland. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1953 for his services to drama. Sim was highly respected by his peers and continues to be remembered as one of the great British actors of the 20th century.
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Donald Pleasence
Donald Pleasence (October 5, 1919 Worksop-February 2, 1995 Saint Paul de Vence) also known as Donald Henry Pleasence, Donald Pleasance, Don Pleasence, Donald Henry Pleasence, OBE or Donald Plesance was a British actor, soldier and voice actor. He had five children, Angela Pleasence, Miranda Pleasence, Lucy Pleasance, Polly Jo Pleasence and Jean Pleasence.
He died in surgical complications.
Pleasence began his acting career on stage in the 1940s and made his film debut in 1954. He appeared in numerous British films and TV shows throughout his career, including the iconic horror film "Halloween" (1978) and its sequel "Halloween II" (1981), where he played the role of Dr. Sam Loomis. He also appeared in the James Bond film "You Only Live Twice" (1967) as Blofeld and in the classic World War II film "The Great Escape" (1963) as Flight Lieutenant Colin Blythe 'The Forger'. Pleasence was known for his distinctive voice and unique acting style, and he received critical acclaim and several awards for his performances in both film and theater. Beyond his acting career, Pleasence was also a published author and wrote several books on his experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II. He was married four times throughout his life, and his final marriage was to Linda J. Kentwood in 1988.
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Graham Roberts
Graham Roberts (October 10, 1929 Chester-October 28, 2004) was a British actor.
He appeared in numerous films, including "This Sporting Life" (1963), "The Jokers" (1967), and "If...." (1968). Roberts also had a successful career on stage, with appearances in productions of Shakespeare plays and other classics. He was known for his deep, distinctive voice and commanding presence on both stage and screen. In addition to his acting career, Roberts was also a writer and broadcaster, working for the BBC and writing several books on acting and the theatre. He continued to act into his seventies, with his final role being in the film "The Statement" (2003). Roberts passed away in 2004 at the age of 75.
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Herbert Marshall
Herbert Marshall (May 23, 1890 London-January 22, 1966 Beverly Hills) also known as Herbert Brough Falcon Marshall or Bart was a British actor. He had two children, Sarah Marshall and Annie Marshall.
He died in myocardial infarction.
Marshall began his career on stage in London's West End before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, including notable roles in "The Letter," "Foreign Correspondent," and "The Razor's Edge." Marshall also had success on radio, starring in the popular mystery series "The Man Called X." Despite losing a leg in a World War I injury, Marshall continued to act throughout his career and was known for his distinctive voice and dapper style.
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Malcolm Tierney
Malcolm Tierney (February 25, 1938 Failsworth-February 19, 2014) was a British actor.
He died caused by pulmonary fibrosis.
Malcolm Tierney studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in various stage productions. He gained recognition for his roles in films such as Braveheart, The Saint, and Love Actually. His television credits include roles in popular shows like Doctor Who, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Casualty. Tierney was also a respected voiceover artist and narrated several documentaries and audiobooks. In addition to his acting work, he was an active member of the British Actors' Equity Association and served as its president from 1993 to 1996.
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John Walker
John Walker (March 18, 1732 Colney Hatch-August 1, 1807 London) was a British lexicographer, professor of elocution and actor.
He is best known for founding the "Walkerian" system of elocution, which emphasized the use of physical gestures and pronunciation exercises to improve public speaking skills. Walker's most famous work is the "Critical Pronouncing Dictionary," which was first published in 1791 and became a widely used reference for correct pronunciation in both Britain and the United States. In addition to his work as a lexicographer and professor, Walker was also an accomplished actor and performed in numerous productions in London's theaters. Throughout his career, he was deeply committed to improving the quality of spoken English and played a significant role in shaping the pronunciation of the language as it is spoken today.
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Hugh Walters
Hugh Walters (March 2, 1939 Mexborough-February 13, 2015) was a British actor.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and worked on stage and screen. Walters is best known for his roles in the classic British TV series "Doctor Who," where he played the character of Vogel in the serial "The Invasion," and as Tricky Dicky in the long-running TV series "Shine on Harvey Moon." He also appeared in movies such as "A Bridge Too Far," "Superman II," and "The Message." Walters was a respected character actor who worked in the entertainment industry for over four decades.
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Ian Hunter
Ian Hunter (June 13, 1900 Kenilworth, Cape Town-September 22, 1975 London) was a British actor and soldier. He had one child, Robin Hunter.
Ian Hunter began his acting career on stage and made his way to Hollywood, where he appeared in more than 50 films during the 1930s and 1940s. Some of his notable performances include the role of King Richard the Lionheart in the 1938 film "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and as Dr. Watson in "The Hound of the Baskervilles" (1939).
During World War II, Hunter served as a lieutenant colonel in the British Army and was involved in the planning of the D-Day landings. After the war, he returned to acting and continued to work in films, television, and theater.
In addition to his acting and military career, Hunter was also a writer and published several books on his experiences during the war. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1953 for his services to drama and was made a Knight Bachelor in 1973.
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James Mason
James Mason (May 15, 1909 Huddersfield-July 27, 1984 Lausanne) otherwise known as James Neville Mason or Enoch Gates was a British actor, film producer, screenwriter and film director. He had two children, Morgan Mason and Portland Mason.
He died in cardiac arrest.
Mason began his career in British cinema in the 1930s, appearing in a number of films including "The Private Life of Don Juan" and "The Man in Grey". He later gained fame in Hollywood, starring in films such as "A Star is Born", "Lolita", and "North by Northwest". Mason was known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence on screen. In addition to his work in film, he also appeared on stage and television, earning critical acclaim for his performances in productions such as "A View from the Bridge" and "The Seagull". As a filmmaker, Mason directed and produced several films, including "The Upturned Glass" and "The Shooting Party". Despite his success in Hollywood, Mason remained committed to his British roots and was a vocal advocate for British cinema throughout his career.
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Lawson Butt
Lawson Butt (March 4, 1880 Bristol-January 14, 1956 Hampshire) also known as W. Lawson Butt or Wilfred Lawson Butt was a British actor and film director.
He began his career in silent films and was known for his roles in popular films such as "Tons of Money" and "The Love Test." He gradually transitioned to directing as well and made several successful films including "Palais de Danse" and "The King's Highway." Butt was a prolific actor and is credited with over 80 film appearances in both British and American productions. In addition to his film work, he also acted in several stage productions, including the West End production of "The Shop at Sly Corner." Despite his successful career, Butt is often overlooked in the history of British cinema.
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Castleton Knight
Castleton Knight (August 9, 1894 Bromley-April 3, 1970 Battle) a.k.a. Leonard Castleton Knight was a British film producer, film director, actor, writer and screenwriter.
He began his career as an actor before transitioning into filmmaking in the 1920s. He directed and produced several successful films, including "The Gay Adventure" (1929), "Nine Till Six" (1932), and "Dirty Work" (1934). He also wrote and directed several documentaries, including "The Battle of the River Plate" (1956), which chronicled the naval battle between British and German forces during World War II.
Knight is perhaps best known for his work as a pioneering animator. He created the first British animated feature, "The Toonerville Trolley" (1936), and later worked on various animated shorts and television shows for the BBC. In addition to his filmmaking work, Knight was also a member of the Royal Air Force during World War I and later served in the Royal Naval Reserve during World War II. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his services to the film industry in 1958.
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Jimmy Godden
Jimmy Godden (August 11, 1879 Maidstone-March 5, 1955) was a British actor, pianist and civil servant.
He was born in Maidstone, Kent, England and began his career as a pianist playing in music halls, later transitioning to acting in silent films. In 1920, he became a civil servant, and worked for the Ministry of Labour until his retirement.
Throughout his career, Godden appeared in a number of films, including "The Little People" (1926), "Night and Day" (1934) and "The Proud Valley" (1940). He also appeared in several stage productions in London's West End.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Godden was a talented artist and exhibited his paintings in various galleries. He was also a Freemason, and held the position of Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies for the United Grand Lodge of England.
Godden passed away in 1955 at the age of 75.
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Harold Huth
Harold Huth (January 20, 1892 Huddersfield-October 26, 1967 London) was a British film director, actor, film producer, television producer and television director. His child is Angela Huth.
Harold Huth began his career as an actor before moving into film production in the 1920s. He produced several successful films including "The Private Life of Henry VIII" which won an Academy Award for Best Actor for Charles Laughton. In the 1940s, he founded his own production company, Huth Productions, and produced numerous successful films including "Brief Encounter" and "Great Expectations".
After World War II, Huth ventured into television production, producing early British television series such as "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and "The Four Just Men". He later transitioned into directing for television, directing episodes of popular shows like "Danger Man" and "The Prisoner".
Aside from his work in film and television, Huth was also known for his personal life. He was a member of the Bloomsbury Group, a circle of influential writers and artists in London in the early 20th century. Huth was openly gay, and his relationship with the writer, playwright, and critic, J.B. Priestley, was well-known in British literary circles.
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Nicol Williamson
Nicol Williamson (September 14, 1936 Hamilton-December 16, 2011 Amsterdam) a.k.a. Nicoll Williamson or Williamson was a British actor. He had one child, Luke Williamson.
He died caused by esophageal cancer.
Nicol Williamson was known for his stage and screen performances, particularly in Shakespearean roles. He first gained recognition for his portrayal of Hamlet in Tony Richardson's 1969 film adaptation. He also starred in a number of other films, including "The Exorcist III" and "Robin and Marian." In addition to his film work, Williamson was a celebrated stage actor, known for his performances in plays such as "The Iceman Cometh," "Inadmissible Evidence," and "Uncle Vanya." Despite his success, Williamson was famously difficult to work with and had a reputation for being temperamental. However, many critics and colleagues admired his talent and dedication to his craft.
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Anthony Pelissier
Anthony Pelissier (July 27, 1912 Chipping Barnet-April 2, 1988 Eastbourne) also known as Harry Anthony Compton Pelissier, Anthony Pélissier or Tony was a British film director, screenwriter, actor, theatre director, theatrical producer and television producer. He had four children, Tracy Reed, Joe Pelissier, Harriet Pelissier and Marie-Louise Pelissier.
Pelissier began his career as a theatre director and producer in London's West End, where he worked on productions such as Terence Rattigan's "The Deep Blue Sea" and "Separate Tables". He then transitioned to film, directing and producing several successful movies in the 1950s and 60s. Some of his notable work includes "The Rocking Horse Winner" (1949), "The History of Mr. Polly" (1949), "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1952) and "Oh... Rosalinda!!!" (1955).
In addition to his work in film and theatre, Pelissier also acted in several productions and had a brief stint as a television producer in the late 1960s. He struggled with health issues in later years and passed away in 1988. Despite some controversies over the years, he remains an important figure in British cinema and theatre history.
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Noel Davis
Noel Davis (March 1, 1927 Liverpool-November 24, 2002 Chelsea) also known as Edgar Davis, Davis and Zimmermann or Davis Zimmerman was a British actor and casting director.
He died in emphysema.
Noel Davis began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in various stage productions and television shows. He later made a transition into casting, working on several well-known films such as "A Clockwork Orange" and "Full Metal Jacket" directed by Stanley Kubrick, "Alien" directed by Ridley Scott and "The Elephant Man" directed by David Lynch. He also worked on numerous television series, such as "The Saint" and "The Avengers". Davis was known for his excellent casting skills and his ability to identify new and upcoming talent. He won a BAFTA award for his work on "Full Metal Jacket" in 1987. Davis was a well-respected figure in the film industry and his legacy continues to inspire casting directors today.
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James Hayter
James Hayter (April 23, 1907 Lonavla-March 27, 1983 Spain) otherwise known as James Hoyter was a British actor.
He began his acting career in the early 1930s and became known for his distinctive voice and portly figure. Hayter appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including "The Bridge on the River Kwai" and "Oliver Twist." He is perhaps best known for his role as Mr. Kipps in the film adaptation of H.G. Wells' "The History of Mr. Polly." In addition to his film work, Hayter also had a successful stage career, appearing in productions in London's West End and on Broadway. He was married twice, first to actress Muriel Pavlow and later to actress Hermione Baddeley. Hayter passed away in 1983 at the age of 75 in Spain.
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Peter Haigh
Peter Haigh (July 28, 1925 London-January 18, 2001 Haverfordwest) was a British actor. He had one child, Peta Louise Haigh.
Peter Haigh began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio presenter in the 1940s. He went on to become a prominent actor in the British film and television industry, appearing in movies such as "No Time to Die" and "The Damned". He was also a regular cast member on TV shows like "The Avengers" and "Z Cars".
In addition to his acting career, Haigh was a well-respected film critic and broadcaster, hosting the BBC's "Film Week" program for over a decade. He also wrote a number of books on cinema, including "The Making of Casablanca" and "The A-Z of Silent Film Comedy".
Haigh retired from acting and broadcasting in the 1990s and moved to Wales with his wife, where he passed away in 2001 at the age of 75.
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John Turnbull
John Turnbull (November 5, 1880 Dunbar-February 23, 1956 London) also known as Stanley Turnbull was a British actor.
He began his acting career on the stage, performing in a variety of productions before making his way to the silver screen. Turnbull appeared in over 60 films during his career, often portraying supporting roles such as detectives or military officers. Some of his notable film credits include "The 39 Steps" (1935), "The Lady Vanishes" (1938), and "The Saint in London" (1939). Aside from his acting career, Turnbull also served in World War I and was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery. Turnbull passed away in London at the age of 75.
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Paul Cavanagh
Paul Cavanagh (December 8, 1888 Chislehurst-March 15, 1964 London) also known as Paul Cavanaugh or Paul Michael Cavanagh was a British actor. He had one child, Joan Katharine Margaret.
He died caused by myocardial infarction.
Paul Cavanagh was born to Irish parents and began his acting career on the London stage before making his way to Hollywood in the early 1930s. He appeared in over 90 films spanning a career that lasted three decades, often playing sophisticated characters such as aristocrats and lawyers. Some of his notable roles include Sir Thomas in "Jane Eyre" (1943), Sir Guy Charteris in "Lassie Come Home" (1943), and Mr. Kimber in "A Woman's Face" (1941). Cavanagh also appeared in several television shows in the 1950s, including "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" and "The Adventures of Robin Hood". In addition to his successful acting career, Cavanagh was also a talented writer and published several novels in his later years.
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Alan Webb
Alan Webb (July 2, 1906 York-June 22, 1982 Chichester) also known as Alan Norton Fletcher Webb was a British actor.
He was born in York and began his career as a stage actor before making the transition to film in the 1930s. Webb appeared in over 50 films throughout his career, including popular titles such as "The Great Train Robbery" (1978) and "The King and I" (1956). He was also a familiar face on British television, starring in numerous series such as "The Avengers" and "The Saint". In addition to his acting career, Webb was a committed socialist and active member of the Labour Party, using his fame to speak out on political issues. He was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1978 for his services to drama. Webb passed away in 1982 at the age of 75 in Chichester.
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Gibb McLaughlin
Gibb McLaughlin (July 19, 1884 Sunderland-April 5, 1960 London) otherwise known as George Gibb McLaughlin or Gibb MacLaughlin was a British actor.
He made his professional stage debut in 1908 and went on to perform in numerous productions in London's West End. McLaughlin also appeared in a few films throughout his career, including "The Passing of the Third Floor Back" (1935) and "Murder at the Baskervilles" (1937). He was known for his versatile acting abilities and was highly sought after in the British theatre scene. In addition to acting, McLaughlin was also a skilled singer and dancer. He continued to perform on stage and in films until his passing in 1960 at the age of 75.
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Wilfred Shine
Wilfred Shine (July 12, 1863 Manchester-March 14, 1939 Kingston upon Thames) was a British actor. His child is called Bill Shine.
Wilfred Shine was born into a family of actors, which helped him get into acting at an early age. He made his stage debut at the age of sixteen and quickly became a popular character actor in Victorian and Edwardian theatre. In addition to his work in theatre, Shine appeared in several films and on radio, where he was known for his distinctive voice.
Shine was also a talented writer and director, and he wrote several plays and adapted many others for the stage. He was particularly known for his work in musical comedy and helped to bring the genre to prominence in the early 20th century.
Shine retired from acting in the 1920s, but continued to work behind the scenes in theatre and film. He was also a collector of theatrical memorabilia, and his extensive collection was donated to the Victoria and Albert Museum after his death.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Shine remained relatively unknown outside of it. However, his contributions to British theatre and film were significant, and he is remembered today as an important figure in the history of British entertainment.
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Edward Chapman
Edward Chapman (October 13, 1901 Harrogate-August 9, 1977 Brighton) was a British actor.
He died as a result of myocardial infarction.
Chapman was best known for his work in comedy films during the 1940s and 1950s. He starred in several films by the production company Ealing Studios, including "Kind Hearts and Coronets" and "The Lavender Hill Mob". He often played authoritarian figures, such as police officers or military officers.
In addition to his film career, Chapman also had a successful stage career. He appeared in several West End productions, including "The Wind and the Rain" and "Dry Rot".
Chapman was married to actress Betty Huntley-Wright, who he met while performing in a stage production of "The Five Pound Note" in 1920. They remained married until her death in 1962. They had one daughter together, named Diana.
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Frank Pettingell
Frank Pettingell (January 1, 1891 Liverpool-February 17, 1966 London) a.k.a. Frank Edmund George Pettingell or Frank Pettingel was a British actor, artist and journalist.
Pettingell began his acting career in the late 1920s and made his film debut in the 1931 film "Caste." He went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1930s, often playing character roles.
During World War II, Pettingell served with the Royal Air Force and returned to acting after the war ended. He continued to work in films and also appeared on stage, including in productions of "Hamlet" and "The Heiress."
In addition to his acting career, Pettingell was also an accomplished artist and journalist. He wrote for several publications, including the magazine "Picture Post," and also painted and exhibited his artwork.
Pettingell retired from acting in the early 1960s and passed away in 1966 at the age of 75.
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Cardew Robinson
Cardew Robinson (August 14, 1917 Goodmayes-December 28, 1992 Roehampton) also known as Douglas Robinson, Cardew 'The Cad' Robinson or Douglas John Cardew Robinson was a British actor. He had two children, Leanne Robinson and Lindy Robinson.
He died as a result of ischemic colitis.
Robinson studied at RADA (The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art). He made his stage debut in 1939, and his film debut in 1941 with the film "Quiet Wedding". Robinson appeared in numerous British films, including "The Fallen Idol" (1948), "The Lavender Hill Mob" (1951), and "The 39 Steps" (1959). He was also a familiar face on British television, appearing in popular shows such as "Dixon of Dock Green" and "The Benny Hill Show". In addition to his acting career, Robinson was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed playing jazz music. He often incorporated this talent into his comedic performances. Robinson was fondly remembered by audiences for his unique, mischievous sense of humor and his talent for physical comedy.
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Jack May
Jack May (April 23, 1922 Henley-on-Thames-September 19, 1997 Hove) a.k.a. Jack Wynne May was a British actor and voice actor. He had two children, Henrietta May and David May.
May began his career as an actor in the early 1950s, with his first major role being in the 1953 film, The Red Beret. He went on to appear in several other films including The Battle of the River Plate (1956) and The League of Gentlemen (1960). May also had many television roles in shows such as The Saint, The Avengers and Doctor Who.
In addition to his acting, May was a prolific voice actor. He provided the voice for many animated series including Danger Mouse and The BFG. May was also the voice behind many radio commercials and was best known for his role as the voice of Sugar Puffs cereal's Honey Monster.
May passed away on September 19, 1997 at the age of 75 in Hove, East Sussex, England.
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Rex O'Malley
Rex O'Malley (January 2, 1901 London-May 1, 1976 New York City) a.k.a. Sean Rex Patrick O'Malley was a British actor.
He began his career in 1927, appearing in British films and stage productions. O'Malley worked steadily throughout the 1930s and 1940s, with notable roles in films such as "The Four Feathers" (1939) and "The Thief of Bagdad" (1940).
In the 1950s, O'Malley made the move to Hollywood and appeared in films such as "Les Girls" (1957) and "The Parent Trap" (1961). He also worked extensively in television, with appearances on shows such as "Gunsmoke", "The Twilight Zone", and "Hawaii Five-O".
O'Malley remained active throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with roles in films such as "Hello, Dolly!" (1969) and "Darling Lili" (1970). He passed away in 1976 at the age of 75.
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