The Oscar-nominated actor Ian Holm best known for playing Bilbo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings, as well for roles in Alien, Chariots of Fire, and The Fifth Element, has died at the age of 88.
The actor, who received an Oscar nomination for his performance in the 1981 film “Chariots of Fire”, had died from a Parkinson’s related illness, the Guardian newspaper said on Friday
In a message to the Guardian, Holm’s agent said: “It is with great sadness that the actor Sir Ian Holm CBE passed away this morning at the age of 88. He died peacefully in hospital, with his family and carer,” adding that his illness was Parkinson’s related. “Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely.”
Born in 1931 in Essex, UK, British actor Ian Holm started his career in the theatre with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Sir Ian Holm had a long and varied acting career that saw him cast as a slew of characters, including Bilbo Baggins in the “Lord of the Rings” movie trilogy, Ash in Ridley Scott’s “Alien” and athletics coach Sam Mussabini in the 1981 movie “Chariots of Fire,” a performance for which he was nominated for an Oscar.
‘His portrayal of Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies ensured the magic of his craft could be shared by all generations. “He was a genius of stage and screen, winning multiple awards and loved by directors, audiences and his colleagues alike. His sparkling wit always accompanied a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely.’
He received the 1967 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor for his performance as Lenny in The Homecoming and the 1998 Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor for his performance in the title role of King Lear.
Top 10 Movies Of Sir Ian Holm
- Time Bandits
- Lord of War
- Ratatouille
- The Sweet Hereafter
- The Fifth Element
- Garden State
- Brazil
- LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring
- LOTR: The Return of the King
- Alien
His death sparked a wave of tributes online.
