British Actor John Woodvine, “An American Werewolf in London” Doctor, Dies at 96

British actor John Woodvine has died. He was 96 years old. His agent, Phil Belfield, confirmed the news on Monday. Woodvine was known for a prolific career spanning stage and screen.

A Stalwart of British Stage and Screen

Woodvine enjoyed a remarkable seven-decade career. He appeared in more than 70 stage productions.

He performed with prestigious companies like the Old Vic and the Royal Shakespeare Company. His work was a fixture of British theatre.

According to the BBC, his stage roles were widely celebrated. He won an Olivier Award in 1987 for his comedy performance in *The Henrys*.

For the RSC, he played Banquo opposite Ian McKellen and Judi Dench. This acclaimed 1970 production of *Macbeth* was also televised.

Memorable Roles in Film and Television

Woodvine became a familiar face on British television. He played Detective Inspector Witty on the long-running series *Z Cars*.

He also appeared in *Doctor Who* and, much later, Netflix‘s *The Crown*. His film career included notable period pieces.

Yet his most iconic film role was in a horror classic. He played Dr. Hirsch in John Landis’s 1981 film, *An American Werewolf in London*.

In the movie, his character investigates the attack on the two American tourists. The film remains a cult favorite to this day.

His final screen credit was in the 2022 folk horror film *Enys Men*. He remained active in his profession into his nineties.

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of John Woodvine. His legacy in film and theatre endures.

Thought you’d like to know

What was John Woodvine’s most famous role?

He is best known for playing Dr. Hirsch in the horror classic *An American Werewolf in London*. This role made him recognizable to international film audiences.

How old was John Woodvine when he died?

John Woodvine was 96 years old at the time of his passing. He had a career that spanned over seven decades.

Did John Woodvine win any major awards?

Yes, he received an Olivier Award for Comedy Performance of the Year in 1987. He won for his role in *The Henrys* at the Old Vic theatre.

Who are John Woodvine’s survivors?

He is survived by his second wife, actress Lynn Farleigh, and his two children. His daughter, Mary, is also an actress.

What was one of his significant stage roles?

He played Banquo in a famous 1970 Royal Shakespeare Company production of *Macbeth*. The production starred Ian McKellen and Judi Dench.