British actor Timothy West has passed away at age 90. Known for roles in *EastEnders* and *Great Canal Journeys*, his family remember him warmly.
One of Britain’s most celebrated and versatile actors, Timothy West, has passed away peacefully at the age of 90. West’s family announced his death, stating he was “surrounded by his friends and family” in his final moments.
Known for his extensive and varied career across stage and screen, West’s work spanned drama, comedy, and documentaries, leaving a lasting impression on British culture and beyond.
West’s career was marked by performances in British television staples, from sitcoms like *Not Going Out* and *Bedtime* to high-profile dramas including *Bleak House* and *Gentleman Jack*.
Audiences of long-running British soaps also recognised him in *Coronation Street* and *EastEnders*, where his roles highlighted his adaptability and depth as an actor.
His enduring popularity was also enhanced by the cherished documentary series *Great Canal Journeys*, which he co-hosted on Channel 4 alongside his wife of 61 years, Prunella Scales.
Their ten-season run captured their shared passion for canal journeys and charmed viewers, giving fans an intimate glimpse into their lives as a couple.
The West family shared that he leaves behind his wife, actress Prunella Scales, known for her role in *Fawlty Towers*, alongside “a sister, a daughter, two sons, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.” They expressed their deep loss, saying, “All of us will miss him terribly.”
Timothy Lancaster West was born in 1934 in Bradford, Yorkshire, to actors Lockwood West and Olive Carleton-Crowe. A pupil at Bristol Grammar School, his classmates included Julian Glover and Dave Prowse, both of whom later rose to fame, with Prowse famously playing Darth Vader in *Star Wars*.
West’s journey in theatre began as an assistant stage manager at the Wimbledon Theatre, and he soon established himself as a formidable stage presence in the 1960s.
By the 1980s, he was leading British television with roles like Bradley Hardacre in *Brass*, where he portrayed a ruthless self-made businessman, showcasing his talent for playing both complex and commanding characters.
Throughout his career, West took on roles as esteemed figures from history. Notably, he portrayed former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill three times, in *From Churchill and the Generals* (1979), *The Last Bastion* (1984), and *Hiroshima* (1995).
His performances as Churchill were marked by his attention to detail, which brought nuance and intensity to each portrayal, solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected historical actors of his generation.
A skilled Shakespearean actor, West performed the role of King Lear twice, in 2002 and again in 2016. His dedication to the Bard’s works remained central to his career, and his interpretations were lauded by critics and audiences alike.
His passion for Shakespeare and classical theatre, paired with his modern television appearances, demonstrated his versatility and commitment to his craft.
Timothy West’s passing marks the end of an era for British acting. His warmth, talent, and dedication are remembered by his family, friends, and fans worldwide, as he leaves behind a legacy that has shaped British entertainment for over half a century.
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