Tears in the Shire
SIR IAN HOLM DIES, 88
LORD Of The Rings star Sir Ian Holm has died aged 88 after a battle with Parkinson’s.
Tributes flooded in yesterday for the “wonderful actor” who starred as Bilbo Baggins in the Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
His stellar career also included standout roles in Alien and Chariots Of Fire.
Sir Ian passed away from a Parkinson’s-related illness surrounded by his family yesterday.
His agent Alex Irwin said: “He was a genius of stage and screen, winning multiple awards and loved by directors, audiences and his colleagues alike. “Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely.”
Yesterday tributes poured in from fellow actors, colleagues and fans.
Comic and actor Eddie Izzard tweeted: “The great Ian Holm is dead. Wonderful actor and it’s so sad to see him go. Farewell, you did great work Sir.”
Comedian Robert Webb wrote: “I was sorry to hear this – what a splendid actor.”
Sir Ian’s finest achievements included a 1967 Tony Award for his performance as Lenny in the Broadway production of The Homecoming.
He also landed an Olivier Award in 1998 for his King Lear.
Sir Ian remained a hero to sci-fi fans for his portrayal of creepy android Ash in Sir Ridley Scott’s cult horror classic Alien.
Other highlights included parts in The Fifth Element, The Sweet Hereafter, Time Bandits, The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Madness of King George.
Made a CBE in 1989, he was knighted in 1998.
The actor is survived by his fourth wife, Sophie de Stempel, and five children from previous relationships.