Today is a somber day for the entertainment and sports communities.
The family of 95-year-old actor Joss Ackland has announced his passing. Ackland, known for his roles in “Lethal Weapon 2” and “The Hunt for Red October,” as well as his role as Hans in “The Mighty Ducks” franchise, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, as confirmed by his long-time agent to The Times.
According to his representative, Ackland was lucid, erudite, and mischievous until the end. Described as a magnificent individual, he played an influential role in the lives of those around him, as shared in a statement to the Hollywood Reporter.
Ackland’s family referred to him as a “beloved father.” He leaves behind seven children and was married to Rosemary Kirkcaldy for 51 years until her passing in 2002 from motor neuron disease. Additionally, he is survived by 32 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
He was born in 1928 in London’s Ladbroke Grove area and grew up in Kilburn, north London. Ackland made his stage debut at the age of 17 in the 1945 production of “The Hasty Heart.”
We extend our condolences to his friends and family as they mourn the loss of this remarkable man.
