Alien and Chariots Of Fire star dies at 88
TRIBUTES have been paid to the stage and screen great Sir Ian Holm, who died yesterday at the age of 88.
The actor, who was Oscarnominated in 1982 as Olympic running coach Sam Mussabini in Chariots Of Fire, had been suffering from a Parkinson’s related illness, his agent said.
Other notable roles include android Ash in 1979’s Alien and Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit and Lord Of The Rings trilogy.
Sir Ian’s agent Alex Irwin confirmed he died in hospital surrounded by his family and said: “His portrayal of Bilbo Baggins ensured the magic of his craft could be shared by all generations.
“Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely.”
Born in 1931 in a psychiatric hospital in Goodmayes, Essex – where his father was a superintendent – Sir Ian was bullied as a child and took up acting as a solace. He graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1953 before joining the Royal Shakespeare Company.
After many acclaimed stage roles his first screen role was in an ITV Play Of The Week in 1957. He won his first Bafta in 1968 for The Bofors Gun and was knighted in 1998 for services to drama.
Outside of work he found himself dubbed “Lord of the Flings” for his colourful personal life. Married four times, his wives included the actress Penelope Wilton. He is survived by his widow Sophie de Stempel and his five children.
Paying tribute yesterday was Mia Farrow who described Sir Ian as “unfailingly brilliant”.
Eddie Izzard said: “Farewell, you did great work Sir.”
The National Theatre called him an “extraordinary actor”.