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Richard Attenborough dies

August 25, 2014

Richard Attenborough, one of the most familiar faces in the British arts, has died aged 90. During a six-decade career, Attenborough appeared in many major Hollywood films and was also an acclaimed director.

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Lord Richard Attenborough
Image: Getty Images

Richard Attenborough's son, Michael, confirmed his father's death Sunday, BBC news reported. It is understood he had been in poor health for some time.

During a career that spanned six decades, Attenborough appeared in movies such as 1947's "Brighton Rock," "The Great Escape" in 1963 and "Jurassic Park."

In 1969, Attenborough turned to directing with "Oh What a Lovely War," which won a Golden Globe award as best English-language foreign film. He won an Academy Award for best director for his 1982 film "Gandhi," which received eight Oscars, including best picture.

Attenborough was also a star on stage, appearing in the lead role in the original cast of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," alongside his wife, actress Sheila Sim. The play opened in November 1952 and stayed for 700 performances.

British Prime Minister David Cameron reacted to the news on Twitter:

Attenborough also served as the president of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and was well known for his extensive work as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF.

He was born on August 29, 1923 and is the older brother of famous naturalist and presenter David Attenborough.

In 1976, Richard Attenborough was knighted and 17 years later received a life peerage, becoming Baron Attenborough of Richmond upon Thames.

He is survived by his wife, their son and a daughter.

hc/jr (AFP, AP, dpa)