Steven Davis
May 05, 2024 - 07:10

Bernard Hill dies at 79: Lord of the Rings and Titanic actor - ExBulletin

"Titanic" and "Lord of the Rings" actor Bernard Hill, 79, has passed away. Fans mourn the loss of a talented legend.

Bernard Hill, a talented actor renowned for his unforgettable performances in blockbuster hits like "Titanic" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, has passed away at the age of 79.

In "Titanic," Hill portrayed the iconic Captain Edward Smith, who tragically perished with his ship in James Cameron's epic film. He later brought to life the character of Theoden, the king of Rohan, in the film adaptation of JRR Tolkien's beloved literary masterpiece.

The sad news of Hill's passing was confirmed by his agent, Lou Coulson, in a statement to the BBC. The actor reportedly passed away in the early hours of May 5, with his family expected to release a statement soon.

Hill was set to make an appearance at Comic-Con in Liverpool, UK this week, but his unexpected death has left fans and colleagues devastated. The event producers expressed their sorrow, calling Hill's passing a great loss and sending their thoughts to his grieving family.

Born on December 17, 1944, in Manchester, UK, Hill's journey to stardom began in a humble mining family. Despite his modest beginnings, he pursued his passion for acting and made a name for himself on stage and screen. His breakthrough roles in BBC films like "The Black Stuff" and "Boys from the Black Stuff" showcased his remarkable talent and versatility.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Hill's fame continued to rise with standout performances in acclaimed films like "Gandhi" and "The Ghost and the Darkness." However, it was his roles in the award-winning films "Titanic" and "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" that solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.

Looking back on his time filming the fantasy trilogy, Hill expressed his love for every moment spent on the set of "The Lord of the Rings." His dedication to his craft and his unforgettable performances will forever be remembered by fans and fellow actors alike.