British Actor Joss Ackland Dies at 95

The name may not sound familiar, but I can guarantee you that if you saw his face, you would remember him instantly.

Ackland has more than 200 credits to his name, but most Americans will remember him in “The Hunt for Red October,” which hit the big screen in 1984.

If not that, then they will surely remember him in “Lethal Weapon 2,” where he played the nemesis of Mel Gibson’s character.

Just an Amazing Career

Ackland’s family confirmed his death this weekend, stating, “With his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Ackland brought a unique intensity and gravitas to his roles.

“He will be remembered as one of Britain’s most talented and beloved actors.”

It is hard to argue that when you see the work in his resume, which, in addition to the movies mentioned above, includes, “Great Expectations,” “White Mischief,” and “First and Last.”

I would imagine the first time that American moviegoers really got a taste of his talents, however, was in the adaption of Tom Clancy’s book, “The Hunt for Red October.”

Ackland played a Russian diplomat who had to fess up to having lost a second submarine in this classic scene…

My favorite, however, was when he played Arjen Rudd in “Lethal Weapon 2.”

In a career that spans six decades, he was able to have some of the most amazing leading ladies in the business.

His biography stated, “His stage and screen lovers were Ingrid Bergman, Lauren Bacall, Jean Simmons, Demi Moore, Claire Bloom, Glynis Johns, Shirley Maclaine, Greta Scacchi, Barbara Cook, Anouk Aimée, Dorothy Tutin, and Denholm Elliott.”

He may have had a lot of leading ladies, but in his private life, there was only one, Rosemary Kircadly, whom he married in 1951 and remained with until she died in 2002.

Together, they had seven children, who then went on to give him 32 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

While we applaud his career, I am sure he would have said that his family is truly his best legacy.