Joss Ackland, a “workaholic” actor who appeared in more than 130 movies, TV shows, and radio programs, died at his home in Clovelly, England on Sunday at the age of 95. His agent, Paul Pearson, confirmed his death. He was best known to American audiences for his role as a South African diplomat in “Lethal Weapon 2”.
Throughout his career, Ackland had memorable supporting roles in movies such as “The Hunt for Red October” and “The Mighty Ducks”. He was also known for his talents on the London stage, playing characters such as Falstaff in Shakespeare’s “Henry IV, Part 1” and Henry IV, Part 2”, as well as writer C.S. Lewis.
While he was a renowned character actor onscreen, Ackland was self-disparaging about his nontheatrical roles, stating that he took on roles less for the money than a need to be constantly on the move. He was even ambivalent about his role in “Lethal Weapon 2”, due to the popularity of the catchphrase, “It’s just been revoked,” much to his chagrin.
Sidney Edmond Jocelyn Ackland was born on Feb. 29, 1928 in the North Kensington neighborhood of London. He was inspired by the mysterious smoke and fog of Depression-era London to pursue acting. He faced many challenges throughout his life, including his wife’s bout with motor neuron disease and a fire in their home that caused her to break her back, but continued to pursue his love of acting.
He once said, “I believe you should never give people what they want. Give them something a little more than what they want and that way they grow up,” a sentiment that he carried with him throughout his life.