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BORN
1940
DIED
2017
John Hurt Obituary
In 2015, the actor announced he was undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.
Hurt, whose prolific career stretched for six decades across stage, film, and television, was known for playing offbeat characters whose stories were tinged with darkness. He was almost unrecognizable under prosthetic makeup in his Academy Award-nominated performance as John Merrick, the deformed 19th-century Englishman whose life story was depicted in “The Elephant Man” (1980).
Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox. Other notable roles included Winston Smith, protagonist of the dystopian classic “Nineteen Eighty-Four” (1984); Kane, the ill-fated spacefarer who was host to the titular parasite in “Alien” (1979); the insane Roman emperor Caligula in the BBC miniseries "I, Claudius" (1976); a secret incarnation of the face-changing, time-traveling Doctor on the 50th anniversary episode of "Doctor Who" (2013); and Mr. Ollivander, the magic wand salesman who appeared in three of the “Harry Potter” films (2001 – 2011).
He was knighted in 2015 for his services to drama.
Hurt is survived by his wife of 12 years, Anwen Rees-Myers.
108 Entries
Richard Lee
December 25, 2021
Fantastic performance in 1984 and Midnight Express
Cal Heinen
August 31, 2019
Boy was he good
August 28, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Mar McDermott
August 28, 2019
Great Actor!
One of my favorites!
He was a brilliant gem
How you can show support
Love CP
April 20, 2017
I still miss you so much Sir John. Seasons come and go but I remember you and wish you were still with us to light the dystopian darkness of this world. You were beautiful and masterful in your life and art and my love for you is boundless and eternal. My dearest sweetest John, I adore you.
julie anne
April 20, 2017
My most loved and cherished actor, for many years he gave so much to the film industry and much more. Missed so much, by so many.
Love Christina in NY
March 30, 2017
I miss your presence in the world, Sir John. You were my very favorite actor and artist. I loved the music of your voice and the many facets of your talent. I admire many fine performers, but you were the gold standard. It is such an injustice to lose you and I miss you so much. For all that you gave us, I believe there were many treasures still to come. I love you, dear heart.
MISSY C
March 16, 2017
John Hurt was everything and gorgeous too. He could lead me anywhere with that face and voice and talent. He was the greatest actor of any generation and his death is a profound loss to art and life. Listen to his interviews to hear his intelligence and wit and humor. He brought all these qualities and more to his sublime work. He was transcendent, he was human and he was EVERYTHING.
Patrick Simon
March 13, 2017
You were my favorite actor
It was great meeting you in Ireland a few years ago
God bless and Rest In Peace
FOR JOHN love C
March 11, 2017
You were so wise and brilliant in your life and work. You meant so much to so many people and you touched so many lives. John, you were so dear to me and I am so thankful for the lessons learned at your feet. Thank you for the palpable love and wisdom in your many performances. And thank you for your singular life.
CARA
March 8, 2017
May love light your way,darling John. I miss you and cherish your memory.
CP
March 5, 2017
There are actors and then there was you. Sublime,versatile,open,brilliant you. You held me in thrall with your every word and gesture. It must have been daunting for any actor to share a screen with you for you stole every scene. My eyes never leave you when I watch your films. I must accept your absence in the world, but you left an astounding record of your time here. Thank you, John. I loved you from the moment I saw you and I adore you still. You are irreplaceable and incomparable-a true genius and star.
C
March 2, 2017
Never before have I felt so saddened by an actor's death. You were part of me, like a dear friend. I truly mourn your passing and I will always cherish you, dear John. Thank you for all you gave me.
Vickie Bartley
March 1, 2017
It saddens me to think this wonderful and glorious actor is gone. RIP.
Cara
February 28, 2017
You are dearly missed and dearly loved. I would have liked the oscars to devote more time to you. The world seems diminished in your absence. I want all the clocks to stop, John, just for you. I love you always.
For you always Love C
February 24, 2017
Have you completed this journey, my love? If you can, please send us your light and grace as you did in life. There was no one like you and the world needs you still. I keep you here inside me and you shine on forever my dear sweet John.
Sally Farnsworth
February 23, 2017
I have been in awe of John Hurt ever since my dad let me stay up late one night to watch 10 Rillington Place. I was only 10. I had never been so mesmerised and remained a great fan and so for a surprise 40th birthday present my dad wrote to John Hurts agent explaining how much of a fan I was. The agent forwarded it to John Hurt and I like to think he signed it personally. The world is slightly more jaded without his talent. Rest in peace
February 20, 2017
Sincere condolences to family and friends during this difficult time.
Psalm 46 : 1
Love you C
February 20, 2017
I keep thinking about you and missing you. I love you dearly, John. I can hear your honey sweet voice in my dreams. How lovely you are.
Mariah
February 16, 2017
Rest in peace John Hurt
Your C
February 16, 2017
Beloved John, you are still with me in memory. You were a great actor and a lovely man. Someone as fine as you is a rarity in this world. Every time I see your face or hear your voice in a film I'm reminded of how wonderful you were in all you did. And I feel anew the pain of your passing. What a remarkable and lovely man you were. I will always adore you, JOHN.
Carina
February 15, 2017
your voice was a soothing balm for my soul. Your face showed me all of life- in all it's beauty and sorrow. As Whitman said, you contained multitudes. John, thank you so much for sharing your heart my darling. You are part of me and I cherish your memory.
C A P
February 13, 2017
John gave so much of himself during his storied career. He was a messenger of truth and the travails of the human condition. He had the rare gift of reaching out to your soul through his work. He was a gentleman and a genius and and we feel his absence deeply. Oh John I hope you felt our love in your life and I hope you carry it on your last journey. I for one love you so very much.
February 12, 2017
John Hurt was such a part of my life. Right from the very early years I was a big fan. I even had the pleasure of meeting him when he was playing in Shadow of a Gunman at Nottingham Playhouse back in the seventies. He then appeared in a radio interview for a programme I produced at Radio Leicester talking about the Elephant Man.
Loved his work, loved the man. I really miss him so I can only imagine what it must be like for his family.
Deepest sympathies
Jennifer Florance
YOUR ACOLYTE
February 11, 2017
You are gone from this earthly realm, but your visage and spirit and voice live on for generations to come. We who lived as your contemporaries count ourselves blessed to have had your living presence among us. You were a gift and a balm to my life. I placed you above other mere mortals. You would likely be amused by this devotion but that was part of your greatness. I imagine I will accept your absence in time, but I will always think of you with fondness and affection. You are a magnificent and singular man. LOVE YOU SO MUCH.
CALLIE
February 8, 2017
Dearest John, why did you move my heart so much when I never had the pleasure of meeting you in person? What a remarkable genius you were to inspire my love through a film screen! You were full of grace and wit and humour and pathos. Every human quality was embodied in and conveyed by you. I am priveleged and blessed to have witnessed your work and to have heard your voice. You are so dear to me. Thank you sweetheart.
First NameA HANDMAIDEN
February 7, 2017
I miss you. The world is darker without you. Thank you for all you gave me, my sweet John. There will never be another like you. You gave your all and I will savor your image and voice forever. How lucky we are that you lived among us! A great man and consummate actor who will live on in legend. Farewell my sweet.
February 7, 2017
I had the honor of seeing his performance in Kraps Last Tape at the Brooklyn Academy of Music a few years ago. I got to meet him afterwards and he was so gracious and sweet to me. He called me dear heart. I am so sorry he's gone. He was a wonderfull man. I also loved the fact that he was in a Paul McCartney video.He did everything, and well. We are all diminished by his passing.
Rosemmary Rieman, Long Island New York
Glenard Foston
February 7, 2017
Sorry to hear of your loss. May the God of all comfort grant you peace during this difficult time. 1Corinthains 1: 3,4
Frances Bolster
February 6, 2017
I can not believe he is really gone. I am so glad he left us so many movies to remember him by.
February 6, 2017
My heartfelt sympathy to the family on the passing of your love one please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss.may the god of all comforts you during this difficult time.2: corin 1 3-7
Cy
Mimi
February 6, 2017
I know how this delightful Man was i loved the Elephent Man so very much. I loved the Spechal People book I got years years ago from a Yard Sale in the 70s man I stell have that book today. I was very fond of the Spechal People . I even said that I am one of them . Well I'll miss him.
COLUMBINA
February 6, 2017
John darling, you retired undefeated.You were the greatest actor of any generation. You were magic-an alchemist of the human condition. How do I thank you for all your gifts? Oh how I miss you and always will.
C
February 6, 2017
YOU WERE THE COMMANDER OF MY HEART. GOODBYE DARLING.
CP IN NY
February 4, 2017
JOHN, how beautiful you were in life and how venerable in death. I revere you for the precious gift of your life and the wisdom you imparted to us all. I never realized how much your passing would shake me but it has. You were a light in the darkness and I am glad to have lived in a time when you existed. You live on in your work and in my memory. Goodbye dear John. Rest in love.
N H
February 4, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
lc
February 4, 2017
I'm so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort be with your family during these times of grief. Is. 33:24
YOUR ADORING SERVANT
February 4, 2017
And when I told them how beautiful you are, they didn't believe me... You were indeed beautiful in every way,inside and out. I only saw you on onscreen and not in person but I loved you so. You reached me and touched my life with your talent and empathy.Your voice was a thing of wonder and your acting was perfect. You were the very best. I wish you peace and love forever my dear JOHN HURT. I miss you and love you dear Sir.
FROM ONE WHO ADORES YOU
February 4, 2017
Farewell to a supreme talent-truly the best of the best. SIR JOHN HURT touched my heart and soul in his humane and brilliant performances. He was uniquely gifted and he shared his life with the larger world and we are so grateful. Condolences to his loved ones. THANK YOU DEAR SIR JOHN for the beauty and joy and knowledge that you gave me.I will always keep you in my heart. I LOVE YOU FOREVER
CHRISTINA
February 3, 2017
I was so saddened to hear of the death of the great JOHN HURT. I loved and admired him and his extraordinary work for so many years. In these turbulent and intolerant political times, John's humane and moving performances are lessons in truth and beauty. I will always remember the moment I first saw his beautiful face as he portrayed Quentin Crisp. I was a young woman and he made me see the true value of diverse lives. I wish I could have met John in life to thank him. I will make do with his face and marvelous voice onscreen. Thank you SIR JOHN. Rest in peace my love.
February 3, 2017
You were a great actor and your movies will live on Reston peas
Valerie Baker
February 2, 2017
Condolences go to John's family and close friends.He will be missed by so many.
Lux Eterna.
Valerie Baker
February 2, 2017
I was deeply saddened to hear about John's death,he has brought so much pleasure to the public with his performances over the years,some of which were so moving..who could forget his towering portrayal of Quentin Crisp,the tragic figures of Timothy Evans,John Merrick and drug addicted prisoner Max.He seemed to bring some magic to all his roles,stealing scenes from those around him.After six decades of giving his best,i think that his recent Knighthood was long overdue and i am glad that his contribution to his art was recognised at last.
It has been said that John bore his illness with great courage and he worked almost to the end.
May God grant him eternal rest.
John's father was the Vicar who officiated at my parents wedding when the Hurt family lived in Shirebrook,Derbyshire,where John was born,we have followed his career as we see him as a local boy that made good.
Ron Morris
February 2, 2017
So sad to hear John Hurt passed away, He will be sadly missed by people of Norfolk, especially Cromer where we saw him from time to time.. Our condolences to his family. R.I.P. To a great man and Actor.
R.D.R
February 1, 2017
What a fantastic actor. He was truly superb in
"The Elephant Man"...I enjoyed that movie. Because he displayed the pain Mr.Merrick felt..we saw him as a person.
My condolences to the Hurt family,and may God comfort,and give you peace as you deal with sad time.
R. C.
February 1, 2017
My condolences to the family on the loss of your dear beloved one. May you find comfort in knowing that Almighty God is close to those brokenhearted.
T C
February 1, 2017
My condolences to the Hurt family for the loss of John. May God's Word strengthen you during this time of mourning. (Isa. 41:10,13)
M C
January 31, 2017
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family for their loss of a talented man. I hope you find comfort in God during this period of mourning.(Psalms 86:17)
A Lee
January 31, 2017
Rest in Peace Sir John.
Antonio Diozzi
January 31, 2017
For You, Sir John, God will open Heaven's Gate. Thank You for your supreme art.
Andrea
January 30, 2017
To the Hurt Family,
I am sorry for your loss,
Mr Hurt was a very talented actor, he will be sorely missed. May the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts during this time of sorrow.
Judy Thomas
January 30, 2017
Welcome to Heaven!
Lisa Vingin
January 27, 2017
Rest in peace Mr. Hurt. I enjoyed you as the War Doctor and Mr. Ollivander. You were a great actor in those two. Condolences to your wife and family.
Jane Dowling
January 30, 2017
God bless you and your loved ones, John ~ Rest in peace.
Mary Meek
January 30, 2017
My condolences to the family of John Hurt. I'll never forget his amazing performance in The Elephant Man. He truly touched my soul. God Bless you at this time and always.
January 30, 2017
Besides " Elephant Man" , he was brilliant in
"Midnight Express" RIP
January 30, 2017
So sorry to hear of your loss. May God comfort you during this difficult time ( John 11 : 25 ).
J
January 30, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Henrietta Sewell
January 30, 2017
RIP !!!# I am very sorry for your loss.
Cheri Leclerc
January 30, 2017
You are now out of pain...And with all of the great thespians.having a wonderful time...Another Beautiful Angel to watch over his Family...May they feel his presence and be at peace!
C Ann ROZMARYN
January 29, 2017
R.I.P. JOHN.... and for all the great Memories of your Art.....
my Heart goes out to your Family and loved ones.... "I feel Your Pain"..... just so very sad.... You're were admirable..... and gracious..... Thank You.....and will never forget you..... SIR JOHN HURT....thou goesth.....
January 29, 2017
My deepest condolences for your loss may you find comfort in the God's word the Bible at 1 Thessalonians 4:13 -14.
Carmen
January 29, 2017
My condolences to the Hunt family soon pain suffering sickness sorrow tears and Death will be gone forever may this bring comfort and give you strength to endure.
Carol Ann Carroll
January 29, 2017
Rest in Peace
January 29, 2017
John will be remember by many people. May the words at Psalms 116:15 bring comfort to you.
January 29, 2017
Truly saddened to hear about John Hurt. What a fine legacy! I hope to meet him in Paradise. (Luke23:43)
Scott Chamberland
January 29, 2017
Rest in Peace
L
January 28, 2017
Loved ones of Mr.Hurt I'm so sorry for your loss.May the peace from God that surpasses all understanding comfort your hearts and minds.
Anita Brubaker
January 28, 2017
Oh, I am so sad hearing that John Hurt has passed away! This is terrible news. I have loved his acting since I first saw him in "I, Claudius" in 1976. Even at 12 I knew he was a wonderful, unique actor. After that, if John Hurt was in a film, I knew it was going to be a good one. He was tremendous, and with such a poignant face. I'm sorry he will play no more new characters, but at least I'll be able to re-watch the old ones. Rest in peace, Mr. Hurt. Thank you for every portrayal; they've been wonderful.
January 28, 2017
John Hurt loved by so many. What a really great guy with such special talent
Ann Stokman
January 28, 2017
Sorry to hear of the loss.
January 28, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. May the love from family, friends, and God help you cope during this difficult time.
D Black
January 28, 2017
During this sorrowful time, words can't express the depth of the pain you are feeling. My hope is that God will bring you a measure of comfort and peace, as you recall all the wonderful memories you have of your dear love one. God promises at Hosea 14:14, to one day empty the graves, I believe in this promise, and pray that you may be strengthened by this hope!
Eula
January 28, 2017
Anwen ,So sorry to read about the passing of John. Our deepest sympathy to you, family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. Remember Jesus' loving invitation at Matt. 11:28-30.
Victoria
January 28, 2017
I am very sorry to the friends and family for tge loss. Soon there will come a time when we will never have to grieve the loss of a loved one in death ever again. Ps 37:9-11
January 28, 2017
My deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved brother William may the God of tender mercy comfort your family
Mary Green
January 28, 2017
My Condolences to bookthe family of Mr. John Hurt may you find Comfort in knowing that others care and shares your sorrow with you. Take Comfort in knowing that God keeps those who dies in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. Psalm 116:15.
JENNIFER BARIBAULT
January 28, 2017
"RIP MAY YOU SLEEP"
January 28, 2017
Sorry for your loss
January 28, 2017
What a deep loss to the Hurt family and the community itself. To grieve privately is hard enough, it's even harder to grieve publicly. May you draw strength from each other and from God during this difficult time.
Abby
January 28, 2017
My condolence to the family. This is a troubling and difficult time, but there is someone that you can throw your anxieties on. At 1 Peter 5:6,7 God wants us to pray to him and let him know our distress because he cares for us.
January 28, 2017
I am truly sorry for your loss. May you find peace in knowing that this life is not all there is. John 3:16
Tamara Hoyt
January 28, 2017
When such a wonderful British actor passes away it is a terrible blow to acting everywhere. You will be missed, John...RIP.
January 28, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Joseph
January 28, 2017
RIP John Hurt (Mr. Ollivander from Harry Potter)! I am saddened to hear this! John Hurt was such a gifted actor! I saw him in Harry Potter, which was a big part of my childhood, and the Elephant Man! He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him and by all his fans! May his legacy continue to live on!
Dear John Hurt rest in peace...Cris
January 28, 2017
Diana Patton
January 28, 2017
Rest In Peace. My condolences to the family.
Mary Kaye Tabler
January 28, 2017
I have watched Mr. Hurt in so many movies, Prayers and blessings to his family.
G. Freeman
January 28, 2017
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
AC
January 28, 2017
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times you shared together as you celebrate a life well lived and loved by many. Psalms 90:10.
Joyce Shaw
January 28, 2017
The film industry has lost one of it's greatest character actors. Such a loss..R I P John Hurt. You were one of my very favorites.
January 28, 2017
Outstanding actor in Elephant Man and one of the scariest movies ever Alien. My sincerest condolences to Mr. Hurt's family.
January 28, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
January 28, 2017
My condolences to Anwen and other family members and friends for your loss of John. May the love of God be ever present with you during this difficult time (Daniel 12:13) ~ Linda, Queens, NY
S. Hill
January 28, 2017
May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family during this time of sorrow. Those who have died, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. (Psalms 116:15) My sincerest sympathy.
michelle plakas-kaiser
January 28, 2017
RIP
Anthony M.
January 28, 2017
My dear condolences goes to the Hurt family and fans for the loss of John. May the loving comfort we receive from from our Heavenly Father, help each and everyone of you as you are grieving. May he comfort you all through the scriptures as well as encouragement to cope.
January 28, 2017
one of my favorite actors, 1984 was your best. RIP. Patrick
January 28, 2017
Sorry for your lost please execs my condolences may the God of all comfort be with you at this time of sorry hosea13, 14,
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