National/Bury St Edmunds: Actor Bob Hoskins dies age 71
Actor Bob Hoskins, who has died following pneumonia at the age of 71. Photo: Ian West/PA Wire - Credit: PA
Actor Bob Hoskins, known for roles in films such as Who Framed Roger Rabbit and The Long Good Friday, has died from pneumonia at the age of 71.
The star, born in Bury St Edmunds, landed a best actor Oscar nomination for Mona Lisa but retired from screen work in 2012 after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
His family released a statement saying he died last night in hospital.
His wife Linda and children Alex, Sarah, Rosa and Jack said: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Bob.
“Bob died peacefully at hospital last night surrounded by family, following a bout of pneumonia.
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“We ask that you respect our privacy during this time and thank you for your messages of love and support.”
Mr Hoskins grew up in north London and left school aged 15 to work in a series of odd jobs while dreaming of getting into acting.
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He claimed he got his big break by accident after being mistakenly called for a theatre audition, but he proved a natural and stage success lead him into TV and small film parts.
His breakthrough role came in Dennis Potter’s 1978 series Pennies From Heaven in which he played the lovelorn sheet music salesman Arthur Parker.
