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John Woodvine's An American Werewolf in London role explored after star's death - The Mirror


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Daily Mirror

John Woodvine's An American Werewolf in London role explored after star's death

John Woodvine, who was best known for his role in An American Werewolf in London, has died at the age of 96, his agent has confirmed

Veteran actor John Woodvine has sadly passed away at his home on October 6, aged 96, as confirmed by his agent, Phil Belfield.


Belfield stated: "John was greatly admired by all and will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all those who met, knew and worked with him. We are all the richer to have known him."


The acclaimed star, often described as "an extraordinary actor", enjoyed a diverse career with memorable roles in Young Winston, Dragonworld, Persuasion, The Crown and most recently the film Enys Men.


In 1981, he featured in the John Landis film An American Werewolf in London as Dr. J. S.

Hirsch, and later reprised his role for the BBC Radio One adaptation of the film, reports the Manchester Evening News.

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He shared the screen with Call the Midwife actress Jenny Agutter and Midnight Madness star David Naughton.

In the film, Dr Hirsch visits the Slaughtered Lamb pub in Yorkshire to investigate an attack on David Kessler (Naughton) and friend Jack Goodman (Griffin Dunne) on the moors.

Fans have been quick to praise the star for his unforgettable performance in the film, with ShadowVoyage commenting: "A true character actor, you might not always remember his name, but you always remembered the performance."


No-Context8421 chimed in: "His decent, level headed but curious doctor was a vital part of what made American Werewolf so special and watchable. His performance grounded the film."

HallowedEchoXo concluded: "May he rest knowing his work still gives people chills and smiles decades later."


The star, known for his roles on both BBC and ITV, also graced the screens in Z Cars, Doctor Who, and Midsomer Murders.

He was wedded to actress Lynn Farleigh since 1996, and they were blessed with two children.

His daughter, Mary Woodvine, followed in his acting footsteps, landing roles as Mary Harkinson in EastEnders and Officer Aurelia Took in Space Precinct.

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Hailing from South Shields, he had an illustrious career with the Royal Shakespeare Company, having initially started his journey on the stage.

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