Actor Bernard Hill, known for his roles in “Titanic” and “Lord of the Rings,” died early Sunday, relatives confirmed.
Hill was 79. He was with his fiancée and son when he died, his agent Lou Coulson said.
The actor's career began in 1974, with roles in several TV shows. One of Hill's best-known roles was as Captain Smith in James Cameron's 1997 epic 'Titanic'. His character, based on Captain Edward Smith, the commander of the real Titanic, went down with the ship in the film.
Hill also played Théoden, King of Rohan, in both “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” and “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”
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The actor was supposed to be at Comic Con Liverpool this weekend, but had to cancel, the organizers announced on social media.
'We are heartbroken by the news of Bernard Hill's passing' Comic Con Liverpool wrote. “A great loss. I think of his family at this very sad time and wish them much strength.”
Actor Sean Astin, who played Samwise Gamgee in the series “Lord of the Rings”, remembered the actor at the event: video shared online shows.
'He was fearless. He was funny. He was gruff,” Astin said.
Hill's death was mourned by the British Academy Film Awards, better known as the BAFTAs. Hill was nominated for two BAFTAs for “A Very Social Secretary” and his breakthrough role in “Boys From The Blackstuff”, which won the Drama Series BAFTA in 1983.
Hill's other roles include Philos in 2002's “The Scorpion King.” He most recently appeared in the BBC drama “The Responder,” which was set to return Sunday.
“Bernard Hill blazed a trail across the screen, and his enduring career of iconic and remarkable roles is a testament to his incredible talent,” said BBC Drama Director. Lindsay Salt said. “From 'Boys from the Blackstuff' to 'Wolf Hall', 'The Responder' and many more, we are truly honored to have worked with Bernard at the BBC. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this sad time .”
