The film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Bernard Hill, who passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at the age of 79. Hill’s career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impression on audiences with his captivating performances in iconic films like “Titanic” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

Bernard Hill (17 December 1944 – 5 May 2024) was an English actor. He is known for playing Théoden, King of Rohan, in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, Captain Edward Smith in Titanic, and Luther Plunkitt, the Warden of San Quentin Prison, in the Clint Eastwood film True Crime. Hill is also known for playing roles in television dramas, including Yosser Hughes, the troubled “hard man” whose life is falling apart in Alan Bleasdale‘s Boys from the Blackstuff in the 1980s, and more recently, as the Duke of Norfolk in the BBC adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall.

Hill began his journey on the small screen, garnering critical acclaim for his portrayal of Yosser Hughes in the 1982 British miniseries “Boys From the Blackstuff.” His raw and nuanced performance in this gritty social drama depicting the struggles of unemployed workers during the Thatcher era earned him a BAFTA nomination, establishing him as a rising talent.

Hill’s transition to the big screen proved equally successful. In James Cameron’s epic 1997 disaster film “Titanic,” he played Captain Edward Smith, the film’s sole major character based on a real person. Hill’s portrayal embodied the stoicism and responsibility of the ship’s captain, adding a layer of authenticity to the heart-wrenching story of the doomed vessel.

In the climactic “The Return of the King” (2003), Hill delivered a performance that became etched in the minds of fans. With a defiant roar that rallied his outnumbered forces to battle, “Arise, arise, Riders of Theoden! Spears shall be shaken, shields shall be splintered! A sword day, a red day, ere the sun rises! Ride now! Ride now! Ride! Ride for ruin and the world’s ending! Death! Death! Death!” Hill’s King Theoden embodied courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming odds, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

Hill’s filmography extends well beyond these iconic roles. He left his mark on historical dramas like “Gorky Park” (1983) and “Cry Freedom” (1987). He even lent his voice to the animated fantasy film “Watership Down” (1978), showcasing his diverse talents. Even in his later years, Hill continued to captivate audiences, appearing in the BBC drama series “The Responder” just before his passing.

Bernard Hill’s death leaves a void in the film industry. His career is a testament to the power of portraying characters with depth and strength. He possessed a unique ability to imbue his characters with a quiet power, allowing their complexities to unfold naturally on screen. Whether it was the despair of an unemployed worker, the unwavering responsibility of a ship’s captain, or the defiant courage of a warrior king, Hill brought a sense of authenticity and humanity that resonated with viewers.

As the industry mourns his passing, Bernard Hill’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the characters he breathed life into. His performances will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.