Fans of British actor Bob Hoskins were shocked and saddened by the news that he has in fact passed away.
According to publicist Clair Dobbs, the 71-year-old died after being hospitalized following a bout with pneumonia.
The surviving family members of Hoskins said in a statement that they “are devastated by the loss of [their] beloved Bob.”
Hoskins will be missed by not only those who knew him, but by all who admired the range that the brilliant actor was capable of.
Those who grew up in the 80s and 90s may remember Hoskins as either the tough-talking and alcoholic private investigator in Who Framed Roger Rabbit? or the comical and accommodating Mr. Smee in Hook.
Our tribute and obituary to the legendary Bob Hoskins, who has sadly passed away: http://t.co/dmUXWsqCc6 pic.twitter.com/myIXDDfpZ3
— Total Film (@totalfilm) April 30, 2014
But Hoskin’s career involved more than just family-friendly movies.
The actor has turned out brilliant performances in more serious roles, including the British classic, The Long Good Friday. Hoskins played a blind psychiatrist in the mind-bending thriller Stay.
He’s worked alongside a wide variety of talents including Ryan Gosling, Christopher Lloyd, Dustin Hoffman, and Robin Williams. He’ll be remembered as someone who was able to convincingly create a plethora of characters.
He had received an Academy Award nomination for best actor for his role as an ex-con with a heart of gold in the movie Mona Lisa.
On a personal note, in 1986 Bob Hoskins kissed my pregnant wife's belly for good luck. He was one hell of a gentleman. Rest in peace
— Leonard Maltin (@leonardmaltin) April 30, 2014
Bob Hoskins has left us with an amazing career to savor forever…
A huge loss…A sad day…
He will be greatly missed.
— Richard Belzer (@MRbelzer) April 30, 2014
Despite a lengthy career, it wouldn’t be unfair to suggest that he had never truly received the recognition he deserved, despite his inarguable acting talents.
It can be said that there are very few actors who shared his ability to take characters that were anything but honorable in their nature and convey a sympathetic and human quality that touched the hearts of audiences.
Bob Hoskins Passes Away at 71 – http://t.co/cR7Pdq5OIb pic.twitter.com/evw4wtDvRg
— Screen Rant (@screenrant) April 30, 2014
Many fans of Hoskins were saddened to learn of his decision to retire from the acting business in 2012. The news came following an announcement that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Bob Hoskins’s final credited role according to IMdB was as Muir in Snow White and the Huntsman.
The actor is survived by his loving wife Linda and children Alex, Sarah, Rosa and Jack.
Image via Wikimedia Commons
