Iconic British actor Tom Wilkinson has died aged 75. He’s known for featuring in classics such as The Full Monty, set in Sheffield, as well as Shakespeare In Love and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. According to a family statement, he died suddenly at home with his wife and family.
The actor, who had more than 130 film and TV credits, will be best known in Yorkshire for his role in the 1997 classic The Full Monty, a comedy about a group of redundant steelworkers from Sheffield, for which he won a BAFTA for his role as Gerald Arthur Cooper – a role in which he reprised 26 years later on the Disney+ streaming platforms.
He has received six BAFTA nominations as well as two Oscar nominations for Michael Clayton and In The Bedroom. His death on Saturday was confirmed in a statement shared by his agent on behalf of his family.
Read More: Keelham Farm Shop Announces Shock Closure Of Food Hall, Cafe And Restaurant
The Yorkshireman was born on 5th February, 1948 in Leeds, West Yorkshire. He became enamoured with acting and directing while at University. And, after finishing university, attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, where he graduated from in 1973.
His death on Saturday was confirmed in a statement shared by his agent on behalf of his family. The statement read: “It is with great sadness that the family of Tom Wilkinson announce that he died suddenly at home on 30 December. His wife and family were with him. The family asks for privacy at this time.”
Friends and fans have taken to social media to share their condolences. Actor Michael Warburton wrote : “Very sad news that one of our finest has left us aged 75.”
Nigella Lawson also commented on the sad news writing: “So sad that Tom Wilkinson has died. Such a great actor, and a lovely man. Love to Diana and family.”
George Clooney told the Guardian: “Tom made every project better. Made every actor better. He was the epitome of elegance and he will be dearly missed by all of us.”
Read More: ‘Pints’ Of Wine Set To Be Sold In Britain For First Time Ever
Feature Image Credit: 20th Century Fox/Allstar
