Timothy West, one of Britain’s most esteemed and versatile actors, has passed away at the age of 90, his family said on Wednesday. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Prunella Scales, celebrated for her role in Fawlty Towers.
He was renowned for his roles across stage and screen, including TV sitcoms Not Going Out and Bedtime, dramas like Bleak House and Gentleman Jack, and appearances in soaps such as Coronation Street and EastEnders.
According to BBC, his children issued a statement announcing that he passed away peacefully whilst sleeping, surrounded “with his friends and family at the end”.
Born in Bradford in 1934, West was the offspring of actors Lockwood West and Olive Carleton-Crowe. He studied at Bristol Grammar School alongside future actors Julian Glover and Dave Prowse, with the latter becoming famous for portraying Darth Vader in Star Wars.
West’s professional journey in theatre began at the Wimbledon Theatre, where he worked as an assistant stage manager.
His breakthrough in acting came during the 1960s, and he garnered critical acclaim for his theatrical performances in Richard II and Edward II.
