Martin Freeman paid tribute to his co-star Bernard Hill, describing him as a ‘gentle’ and ‘kind’ man following his death at the age of 79. Bernard was best known for his roles in The Lord Of The Rings trilogy and Titanic, and had recently starred in the BBC police drama The Responder alongside Martin. Martin reflected on their working relationship, praising Bernard’s playful demeanor and twinkle in his eye. He expressed sadness that Bernard would not be able to witness the success of his final performance, but was grateful that he was able to work on something he loved.
Bernard Hill’s passing came just hours before his return to television in The Responder, which aired on BBC One the same night. Tributes poured in for the actor, with many praising his incredible talent and the iconic roles he had played throughout his career. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, acknowledged Bernard’s achievements and expressed the network’s gratitude for having worked with him. Actress and musician Barbara Dickson also paid tribute to Bernard, recalling their time working together in a musical based on the Beatles. The Manchester native had a varied on-screen career, transitioning from small dramas to blockbuster films that would make billions worldwide.
Born into a family of coal miners, Bernard Hill attended acting school with Richard Griffiths before making his debut on screen. He gained recognition for his role as Yosser Hughes in Boys from the Blackstuff, where he portrayed a working-class man struggling with unemployment. The series won a Bafta for best drama and established Bernard as a talented actor. He went on to star in major films such as Gandhi, where he played Sergeant Putnam, and Titanic, where he portrayed Captain Edward Smith. His role in the Lord of the Rings trilogy as King Theoden garnered widespread praise, marking a late career renaissance for the actor.
Bernard Hill’s career was marked by an array of diverse roles, from historical dramas to Hollywood blockbusters. He appeared in films such as The Scorpion King, Gothika, and Wimbledon, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Despite his success on the big screen, Bernard continued to make regular appearances on British television, with a notable role in the 2015 BBC drama Wolf Hall. He portrayed the Duke of Norfolk in the first series of the show before being replaced by Timothy Spall in the second. His last role was in The Responder alongside Martin Freeman, which aired posthumously in honor of his memory.
Bernard Hill’s legacy as an actor was celebrated by his colleagues and fans, who remembered him for his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. His passing was mourned by many in the entertainment industry, with tributes reflecting on his memorable performances and impact on the screen. Despite his achievements in Hollywood and on television, Bernard remained humble and dedicated to his work, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that will continue to inspire future generations. He is survived by his wife Marianna Hill and their son Gabriel, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of film and television.
