The BBC is reporting that the storied British actor, best known for playing Vernon Dursley in the Harry Potter films, has passed away at the age of 65 following heart surgery complications.
He’s been a recognizable character actor for years, appearing in films ranging from Ghandi and Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow to Hugo and Chariots of Fire. For further geek connections, he even played a terrorist in Superman II and was King George in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.
He’ll forever be known as Harry Potter’s cruel uncle in the films, though, adding a layer of hatred and tension to the films that allowed us to truly feel for Harry.
Daniel Radcliffe released a statement that BBC ran:
His Harry Potter co-star Daniel Radcliffe – who also appeared on stage with him in Equus – was among the first to pay tribute, saying: “Richard was by my side during two of the most important moments of my career. I was proud to know him.”
At 65 after an operation, it was certainly too soon for a character actor of his stature.