Word has come from London that actor Bob Hoskins has died at the age of 71. A family statement released this morning (Wednesday, April 30, 2014) by agent Clair Dobbs said Hoskins died in a hospital after a bout of pneumonia. Hoskins was a much appreciated character player whose skills elevated him among most. His Cockney background was an endearing distinction. He is remembered for such classics as “The Long Good Friday.” He specialized in tough guys with a soft center, including the ex-con who chaperons Cathy Tyson’s escort in Neil Jordan’s 1986 film “Mona Lisa.” Hoskins was nominated for a best-actor Academy Award for the role. His Hollywood breakthrough came as a detective investigating cartoon crime in the part-animated 1988 hit “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.” He also played the pirate Smee in Steven Spielberg’s 1991 Peter Pan movie “Hook.” In 2012 Hoskins announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was retiring from acting.
