Scottish folk musician Barbara Dickson announced the passing of Bernard Hill on Twitter. Hill, renowned for his portrayal of Captain Edward J. Smith in Titanic, died at 79. The veteran actor enjoyed a distinguished career across film, television, and theatre.
Barabara took to her handle and tweeted, “It’s with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill.
We worked together in John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell marvellous show 1974-1975. A really marvellous actor. It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny x #bernardhill.”
Fans mourned the loss of the veteran actor, expressing sorrow over his passing. Cinephiles paid tribute, praising his memorable performances in Titanic and The Lord of the Rings. Many lauded his portrayal of complex characters like Yosser Hughes in Boys from the Blackstuff. His portrayal of King Theoden in The Lord of the Rings was also hailed for his acting prowess.
A fan tweeted, “RIP #BernardHill everybody is referring to his brilliant role in boys from the black stuff but I thought he was sublime in Wolf Hall as the Duke of Norfolk. Such a great actor.” Another fan wrote, “Rest in peace Bernard Hill. Many were your wonderful performances, and the inspiration you brought to the world cannot be understated. Rest in the halls of your fathers, in whose mighty company you shall not know shame.”
Bernard Hill portrayed the character of Captain Edward J. Smith, a British sea captain and naval officer, in James Cameron’s Titanic. The romantic disaster film starred notable actors such as Billy Zane, Kathy Bates, Frances Fisher, Gloria Stuart, Jonathan Hyde, Victor Garber, David Warner, Suzy Amis, and Bill Paxton in significant roles.
Bernard Hill holds the distinction of being the only actor to feature in more than one film that won 11 Academy Awards: Titanic and The Lord of the Rings.
