(LibertySons.org) – A legendary British film and TV actor has died at the age of 79. Bernard Hill was known for many roles, the most famous being “Titanic” and “Lord of the Rings” (LOTR).
Bernard Hill was born on December 17, 1944, in Blackley, Lancashire, England, into a mining family. He attended the Manchester Polytechnic School of Drama, earning a degree in theater in 1970. In his early career, he performed on stage and in various roles on television, including Sergeant Putnam in “Gandhi” in 1982. His first major work of note was playing Captain Edward J. Smith in “Titanic” in 1997.
In 2002, he landed the role of King Théoden of Rohan in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.” He reprised the role in “Lord of the Rings: Return of the King” the following year. This role led to several awards, including an Online Critic’s Choice Award for Best Ensemble Cast in 2003.
Praise for Hill’s caring attitude and acting abilities poured onto social media platforms. “Lord of the Rings” co-star Elijah Wood posted a tribute on X, formerly Twitter, saying, “So long to our friend, our king…. We will never forget you.”
Over the course of his career, Hill has been nominated for several awards including two BAFTAs (the UK equivalent to our Oscar and Emmy awards). He also won a Critics Choice Award, a Broadcasting Press Guild Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, among others.
Since his iconic LOTR work, he’s appeared in many TV programs and films like his current role as Tom Carson on the show “The Responders.”
Hill’s final words in the LOTR saga are now a fitting tribute. In his death scene, he says, “I go to my fathers…In who’s mighty company I shall not now feel ashamed.”
May he rest in peace.
~Here’s to Our Liberty!
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