Joss Ackland | Source: Getty Images
Veteran Actor Joss Ackland Dead: He Passed ‘Peacefully’ & Remained ‘Mischievous to the Very End’
British actor Joss Ackland passed away at 95, leaving behind his seven children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also left a legacy in the entertainment industry, both on screen and on stage.
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Joss Ackland, who built his career in the entertainment industry as a veteran on-screen and a stage actor, died on Sunday, November 18, 2023. He was 95 years old, and no cause of death was revealed to the public.
During his last moments, the London-born actor was surrounded by his family. His representative and good friend, Paul Pearson, revealed in a statement that the entertainer died peacefully.
Joss Ackland spotted walking in London on September 24, 2013, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
Joss Ackland celebrating the press night performance of "The King's Speech" at The Langham Hotel on March 27, 2012, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
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"Joss was a long-term client and great friend who remained lucid, erudite, and mischievous to the very end," Pearson described the late star. Meanwhile, Ackland's family said in a statement:
"With his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Ackland brought a unique intensity and gravitas to his role. He will be remembered as one of Britain's most talented and beloved actors."
Joss Ackland as King George V in a photo call for "The Kings Speech" at Wyndhams Theatre on March 26, 2012, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
Joss Ackland at the The Olivier Awards at Theatre Royal on March 13, 2011, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
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Ackland is survived by his seven children, who gave him 34 grandchildren. He also leaves behind 30 great-grandchildren. He joins his wife of 51 years, Rosemary, in the afterlife. Rosemary passed away in 2002.
Ackland, a London's Central School of Speech and Drama graduate, is most recognized for his performances in "Lethal Weapon 2," where he played a diplomat antagonist, "White Mischief," "Bill & Ted," "K-19: The Widowmaker," "The Mighty Ducks," "Watership Down," and "The Hunt for Red October," alongside Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin. He also appeared in the television shows "Midsomer Murders" and "Shadowlands."
Joss Ackland at The Olivier Awards at Theatre Royal on March 13, 2011, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
Joss Ackland at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, United Kingdom, circa 2009 | Source: Getty Images
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Throughout his career, Ackland earned over 130 on-screen credits and worked with many other talented actors and actresses who will remember him well.
Besides appearing on film and television, he also starred in many stage productions, including "Evita," "A Little Night Music," and several others.
Ackland's decades-long career did not go without recognition. Some of his accolades include two BAFTA nominations and a CBE for services to drama. Undoubtedly, his legacy in show business will live on for many years to come.
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