09/02/2007

Ian Richardson dies age 72

Stage and television actor Ian Richardson has died suddenly aged 72.

Best know for his recent television performance as underhand politician Francis Urquhart in the BBC drama 'House of Cards', he had been due to start shooting on ITV's 'Midsomer Murders'.

His most recently screened role was that of the voice of Death in Sky's dramatisation of Terry Pratchett's 'Hogfather' where his resonant tone was instantly recognizable as one of Britain's most acclaimed Shakespearean actors.

Born in 1934 in Edinburgh, he studied at Glasgow's College of Dramatic Art. He was nominated for a Tony Award for his portrayal of Henry Higgins in a Broadway revival of 'My Fair Lady'.

Awarded a CBE in 1989, he won a Bafta for his role as the scheming politician Urquhart in the 1990's series 'House of Cards'.

He died peacefully in his sleep at his home in London.

He leaves a wife Maroussia and two sons.

(SP/KMcA)

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