Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Oliver! actor Ron Moody dies at 91

Won a Golden Globe for his performance in the 1968 film

Rose Troup Buchanan
Friday 12 June 2015 04:37 EDT
Comments
Moody as Fagin in Oliver!
Moody as Fagin in Oliver! (Rex images)

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.

Ron Moody, who played Fagin in the award winning Oliver! film, has died.

Moody, who was nominated for the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of Charles Dickens’s character in the 1968 film, died in hospital earlier today aged 91.

“Fate destined me to play Fagin. It was the part of a lifetime," he said of the role.

The British actor, who also won a Golden Globe for the same performance, also appeared in EastEnders as Edwin Caldecott and played a wizard in Disney’s A Kid in King Arthur’s Court.

Born Ronald Moodnick in Tottenham on 8 January 1924 to Jewish immigrants, his father would later anglicise his family name to Moody.

Moody initially intended to be an economist, only taking up acting in his late 20s. The BBC reports that the actor’s biggest regret was turning down an opportunity to play Doctor Who.

"He brought joy to his family and to the hearts of many and will be greatly missed. He was singing until the end," his widow Therese told reporters.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in