Timothy West, Beloved Actor Known for Stage and Screen Roles, Dies at 90

A Remarkable Career

Timothy West, one of Britain’s most respected actors, has passed away at the age of 90, his family confirmed. Known for his remarkable versatility, West had a career that spanned decades, with notable roles in television, film, and theatre.

His work included memorable appearances in TV sitcoms such as Not Going Out and Bedtime, as well as dramatic roles in Bleak House and Gentleman Jack. He also made notable guest appearances in long-running soaps like Coronation Street and EastEnders.

Family's Tribute

In a statement, his children revealed that West “passed away peacefully in his sleep,” surrounded by family and friends. The actor leaves behind his wife, actress Prunella Scales, whom he was married to for 61 years. Scales, who is best known for her role in Fawlty Towers, has lived with vascular dementia for over 20 years. Together, the couple appeared in 10 series of Great Canal Journeys, where they shared their life and love with viewers.

Tributes from the Entertainment World

Tributes poured in from across the entertainment world. Dame Joanna Lumley remembered West as a “huge loss” not only to his family but also to the public, particularly those affected by dementia. She praised the couple for showing that dementia could be faced with strength and dignity.

Broadcaster Piers Morgan recalled a deeply moving interview with West for his Life Stories series, where West’s devotion to his wife, despite her Alzheimer's, was clear for all to see. Fellow actor Dame Harriet Walter described him as “a wonderful man,” while EastEnders actress Tracy-Ann Oberman called him “the most wonderful actor and human being.”

Final Days and Legacy

West’s final television appearance was in the latest episode of Doctors on BBC One, which aired the day before his death. His family expressed their gratitude for the exceptional care he received in his final days from the NHS staff at St George's Hospital and Avery Wandsworth.

Early Life and Career

Born in Bradford in 1934, West came from an acting family—his father, Lockwood West, was also an actor. He began his career in the 1950s, first working as an assistant stage manager at the Wimbledon Theatre. By the 1960s, he had begun to build his reputation on stage and screen, with a series of successful performances in television dramas and adaptations. West gained particular acclaim for his portrayals of historical figures, including Winston Churchill in several TV dramas, and King Lear in productions of Shakespeare's play.

A Legacy of Iconic Roles

Throughout his career, he became known for his strong presence in both dramatic and comedic roles. He played the ruthless businessman Bradley Hardacre in the 1980s drama Brass, and was also known for his role in the 1992 crime drama Framed. West’s later work included a long-running part in Not Going Out, where he played Geoffrey, the father of Lucy (played by Sally Bretton).

West also had a strong stage presence, regularly performing in Shakespeare productions. He played King Lear both in 2002 and 2016, receiving critical acclaim for his portrayal. His career also included a brief stint as artistic director of London’s Old Vic Theatre, where he clashed with critics over a production of Macbeth starring Peter O’Toole.

A Life Well-Lived

West’s family described him as having led a "remarkable and fulfilling life," both in his career and personal life. He is survived by his wife, three children, a sister, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

"The loss of Timothy will be deeply felt by all of us," his family said. "We are so grateful for the love and care he received from the NHS in his final days."