Bob Hoskins dead: Best film moments
The British actor died from pneumonia last night but lives on in his movies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.British actor Bob Hoskins died last night following a battle with pneumonia. The 71-year-old's career spanned four decades, with some of his best-known films including Mona Lisa and, most recently, Snow White and the Huntsman.
Hoskins built his solid reputation in the theatre in the Sixties before winning favour from critics with his performance as East End gangster Harold Shand in 1980’s The Long Good Friday.
The Suffolk-born star lost out to Paul Newman at the Oscars in 1987, but received a Golden Globe nomination for his role in animated classic Who Framed Roger Rabbit? the next year.
Hoskins, who had suffered from Parkinson’s disease since late 2011, had retired from acting at the time of his death. He remains a respected member of the film industry, so let’s take a look back at five of his finest movie moments:
The Long Good Friday, 1980
This British film marked the beginning of Hoskins' cinematic career. He starred as a gangster opposite Helen Mirren and won widespread critical acclaim for his performance, including a Bafta nod. Watch him make his entrance as Harold Shand below.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, 1988
This loveable animated film established Hoskins as a worldwide star. After playing Eddie Valiant, an alcoholic detective investigating a murder in a world where Forties cartoon stars are a submissive minority, he was soon in high demand. Remember this dramatic car chase scene? "Jumpin' jeepers!"
Mona Lisa, 1986
Hoskins picked up the Best Actor award at the Golden Globes and Baftas for his role as ex-con turned high-class prostitute's chauffeur, George. Paul Newman might have beaten him at the Oscars with The Colour of Money, but this mystery movie remains one of Hoskins' finest. Watch an excerpt from Neil Jordan's film below.
Hook, 1991
Hoskins' performance as Captain Hook's loyal sidekick Smee is remembered with great fondness by many movie fans. Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman also starred in this action-packed take on Peter Pan's villain. Watch Hoskins talk Hook out of suicide here.
Mrs Henderson Presents, 2005
Hoskins starred alongside Judi Dench and Kelly Reilly in this Stephen Frears comedy. He played doubting theatre manager Vivian van Damm and earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Pop Idol winner Will Young also appeared.
Film fans will also remember Hoskins as Sally Hawkins' supportive husband in 2011's gender equality hit, Made in Dagenham, or as magician Steve Laws in 1999's moving A Room for Romeo Brass.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments