British actor Tom Wilkinson, known for his role in The Full Monty, has passed away at the age of 75. He received a Bafta for the 1997 film and was also nominated for two Oscars.
The British star Tom Wilkinson won a Bafta for the hit 1997 film, and was nominated for two Oscars.
Tom Wilkinson, acclaimed for his roles in films like “The Full Monty,” which earned him a BAFTA, and notable performances in “Michael Clayton” and “In The Bedroom,” tragically passed away at home alongside his wife and family, as announced in a statement.
George Clooney, his co-star in “Michael Clayton,” praised Wilkinson’s elegance and influence in the industry, stating, “Tom elevated every project and actor he worked with. He embodied grace and will be deeply missed by all.”
With over 130 credits spanning film and TV, Wilkinson showcased versatility in genres, from period dramas like “Sense and Sensibility” and “Belle” to portraying masterminds in movies such as “Rush Hour” and “RocknRolla.”
His achievements included an Emmy win for portraying Benjamin Franklin in the mini-series “John Adams” and an Emmy nomination for playing Joe Kennedy in “The Kennedys.” Wilkinson’s diverse career also encompassed roles in “Selma,” “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” and “Girl with a Pearl Earring.”
His passing on Saturday was confirmed in a statement released by his agent on behalf of his family.
The Encyclopaedia of British Film hailed Wilkinson as a standout character star, noting his exceptional ability to express inner turmoil among his numerous gifts.
Robert Carlyle, his co-star in The Full Monty, revered him as an immense performer, a titan of acting prowess not only within his generation but across eras.
In a tribute shared on X (formerly Twitter), Phil Davis, a British actor, lauded Wilkinson’s blend of power, delicacy, and profound intelligence, placing him among the finest in the craft. Singer and actor Will Young referred to him as a member of British acting’s elite.
Scott Derrickson, a US filmmaker, praised Wilkinson as an incredible talent and reminisced about a surprising moment on the set of The Exorcism of Emily Rose when the actor planted an unexpected kiss on his lips.
He hails from Leeds but spent part of his childhood in Canada and Cornwall. At 18, his passion for directing ignited when given the chance to helm a play, marking the first time he felt truly adept at something.
Realizing that acting wasn’t confined to a specific social class, he pursued training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada). His career encompassed theatre and television, with a breakthrough in the 1986 mini-series First Among Equals, adapted from Jeffrey Archer’s novel.
His co-star in the series, Diana Hardcastle, became both his on-screen and off-screen partner. Their marriage in 1988 led to shared roles portraying married couples in productions like The Kennedys in 2011 and the 2014 action film Good People. They are parents to two daughters, Alice and Molly.
Wilkinson expressed his satisfaction with his portrayal of Pecksniff in the BBC’s “Martin Chuzzlewit” in 1994, feeling he couldn’t have done it better. Despite winning awards for it, he still doubted his acting abilities until he landed a role in “The Full Monty” three years later. He faced a choice between a TV series lead and a potential part in a low-budget movie, ignoring advice to choose the TV role, which ultimately disappointed. However, the low-budget movie, “The Full Monty,” became a massive success, elevating his career significantly.
His performance in Todd Field’s 2001 film “In the Bedroom” as a grieving father garnered critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, achieving two of his career goals: proving his capability as a lead in a movie and showcasing his skill in an American lead role. Additionally, his supporting role in Tony Gilroy’s 2007 film “Michael Clayton,” starring George Clooney, earned him his second Academy Award nomination.
Wilkinson’s repertoire includes notable roles in films such as Batman Begins, The Patriot, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and The Gathering Storm. He also lent his voice to the TV adaptation of the beloved children’s book The Gruffalo, portraying the character of the fox.
His agent, Lou Coulson, consistently praised Wilkinson as “one of the best” in various interviews. Despite his success, Wilkinson maintained a humble and low-key presence off-screen, expressing his enjoyment of anonymity during outings to places like Waitrose.
In recognition of his contributions to drama, Wilkinson was honored with the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2005 New Year Honours.
Source: BBC News
Disclaimer:
This content is AI-generated using IFTTT AI Content Creator. While we strive for accuracy, it’s a tool for rapid updates. We’re committed to filtering information, not reproducing or endorsing misinformation. – Jomotoday for more information visit privacy policy
1 Comment