Albert Finney, who is known for his roles in “Skyfall” and “Tom Jones,” died at age 82, it was reported.
Finney’s family said on Feb. 8 that the longtime actor “passed away peacefully after a short illness with those closest to him by his side,” reported the BBC. “The family request privacy at this sad time.”
He was nominated for five Academy Awards, including for roles in “Murder on the Orient Express,” “The Dresser,” “Under the Volcano,” and “Erin Brockovich.”
A representative told the Guardian that he died of a chest infection at the Royal Marsden hospital. His wife and son were by his side.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Albert Finney. The recipient of the BAFTA Fellowship in 2001, Finney will be warmly remembered for his powerful performances in Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, Tom Jones, Big Fish and many more. pic.twitter.com/SwuaV84cGE
— BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 8, 2019
Although Finney rarely discussed his personal life, he told the Manchester Evening News in 2012 that he had been treated for kidney cancer for five years, undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, according to The Associated Press.
He also explained why he had not attended the Academy Awards in Los Angeles even when he was nominated for the film world’s top prize.
“It seems silly to go over there and beg for an award,” he told the paper.
Albert Finney. One of the very best. pic.twitter.com/NYBKWDUXmo
— Nicholas Pegg (@NicholasPegg) February 8, 2019
He credited the headmaster of his local school, Eric Simms, for recommending that he attend the renowned drama school.
“He’s the reason I am an actor,” Finney said in 2012.
Finney made his first professional turn at 19 and appeared in several TV movies, including “She Stoops to Conquer” in 1956 and “The Claverdon Road Job” the following year.
Rest in peace dear Albert Finney ????????????
— Rosanna Arquette (@RoArquette) February 8, 2019
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Albert Finney. The recipient of the BAFTA Fellowship in 2001, Finney will be warmly remembered for his powerful performances in Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, Tom Jones, Big Fish and many more,” BAFTA tweeted, offering condolences.
A number of actors and other celebrities offered social media tributes following his death.
One of the true great. Both on stage and screen. A powerhouse of an actor. A real hero of mine. RIP Albert Finney https://t.co/FuSu6948tS
— David Morrissey (@davemorrissey64) February 8, 2019
“One of the true great. Both on stage and screen. A powerhouse of an actor. A real hero of mine. RIP Albert Finney,” said David Morrissey, the actor.
We’re saddened to learn that the great Albert Finney has died aged 82 https://t.co/cARdtYfWyo pic.twitter.com/JGqfuNpaY1
— BFI (@BFI) February 8, 2019
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From The Epoch Times