Joss Ackland, a distinguished British actor celebrated for his versatile performances in film, theater, and television, passed away at 95 in his home in Devon, England, on Thursday, November 22, 2023.
Ackland, whose career spanned over seven decades, was renowned for his deep, gravelly voice and his adept portrayal of authoritative figures.
Born on February 29, 1928, in London, England, Ackland grew up in poverty, the child of an Irish journalist father and an English mother.
He discovered his passion for acting at a young age and honed his skills at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Ackland’s professional acting journey began in 1945, quickly establishing himself as a fixture in the UK theater scene.
Ackland’s filmography is extensive, with over 130 credits in films, television shows, and radio programs. He is perhaps best known for his roles as Arjen Rudd in “Lethal Weapon 2” and Hans in “The Mighty Ducks.” His performance in “White Mischief” earned him a BAFTA nomination.
Beyond the big screen, Ackland’s heart belonged to the stage. He was a stalwart of British theater, taking on iconic roles such as Falstaff in Shakespeare’s histories and appearing in the original cast of the musical “Evita.”
Throughout the 1980s, Ackland’s career experienced a resurgence with roles in notable films such as “The Hunt for Red October” and “The Sicilian.” In addition to his film and stage work, Ackland contributed to the arts through music videos and narrated audiobooks. Despite his success, Ackland later expressed some regret over accepting smaller film roles, driven by a love of acting and a desire to remain industrious.
In “The Mighty Ducks,” Ackland’s role as Hans, the owner of a local sporting goods store, was pivotal in encouraging the protagonist to rediscover his passion for hockey. This role, among others, showcased Ackland’s ability to inspire both on and off the screen.
Ackland’s dedication to his craft did not wane with age, as he continued to act into his 90s, including roles in “Midsomer Murders” and “Kingdom” and a stage portrayal of King Lear in 2013.
Ackland’s personal life was highlighted by his marriage to Rosemary Kirkcaldy in 1951. The couple had seven children together before her passing in 2002.
He is survived by his five daughters, two sons, 32 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
