‘Lord of the Rings’ Star Dead at 79

An actor who just about everyone reading this would recognize has sadly passed away.

Bernard Hill, who starred in some of the most epic films of the last few decades, is dead.

He was 79 years old.

Epic Star

Hill passed on Sunday morning, confirmed by his agent Lou Coulson.

However, no cause of death was given.

Hill started acting in the 1970s, landing roles in several TV shows. His first real recurring role was in 1980 in “Fox,” where he appeared in 13 episodes.

Then, in 1982, he landed the role of Sergeant Putnam in “Ghandi.”

This started a flurry of great roles in movies that were all over the spectrum, allowing Hill to show off his range and brilliance.

In 1985, Beatles fans will remember him for his portrayal of John Lennon in the TV movie, “John Lennon: A Journey in the Life.”

His star faded a bit after that, landing mostly small roles or uncredited parts until he hit paydirt with a key role in “Titanic,” playing Captain Smith in 1997.

That appeared to put him back on the map, landing subsequent roles in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Scorpion King,” and eventually, playing Theoden in “The Lord of the Rings” franchise.

Some of his more recent films were “Forever Young” and “The Moor,” both released in 2023, as well as a recurring role in “The Responder.”

For all his roles, however, it was playing Theoden in the “Lord of the Rings” for which fans will always remember him, especially after he stiffed Amazon.

The LOTR franchise was bastardized by Amazon, which created “The Rings of Power” series.

When Hill was asked if he was going to play in that series, he responded, “No, not interested.

“It’s a money-making venture and I’m not interested in watching that or being in it.”

For me, however, it was Captain Smith in “Titanic,” who calmly decided to go down with his ship while everyone else rushed to safety.

Rest in peace, sir, and thank you for the amazing performances over the years.