An American Werewolf in London actor John Woodvine passed away peacefully at home this morning. He was 96.
Horror fans will recognize the British actor as Dr. Hirsch, who took it upon himself to investigate the strange attacks in John Landis’ 1981 horror-comedy classic. He reprised the role BBC Radio 1’s radio adaptation of the film in 1997.
Woodvine’s other genre credits include Burke & Hare, also directed by Landis, Ken Russell’s The Devils, the Charles Band-produced Dragonworld, and Enys Men, which was his final film.
Outside the genre, Woodvine’s notable credits include “The Crown,” “Doctor Who,” Miss Potter, Vanity Fair, and the 1992 adaptation of Wuthering Heights.
Woodvine’s seven-decade career included extensive work on stage, including an Olivier Award for Best Comedy Performance for his 1987 performance as Sir John Falstaff in the Old Vic’s production of The Henrys.
“John was an extraordinary actor and had a fabulous and varied career in all areas of the industry,” Woodvine’s agent Phil Belfield said in a statement. “John was greatly admired by all and will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all those who met, knew and worked with him. We are all the richer to have known him.”
John Woodvine in ‘Burke and Hare’