Bob Hoskins, 71, passed away surrounded by family following complications associated with pneumonia; the veteran actor retired from show business 2 years ago after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He leaves behind four children with second wife Linda Banwell.



According to the Daily Mail, Hoskins began his film career in the 1970s and found fame playing Harold Shand in the iconic 1980 gangster film 'The Long Good Friday' alongside Helen Mirren.

An Oscar nomination for best actor and further critical acclaim followed his lead role in another British film, 'Mona Lisa' in 1986.

He went on to play Eddie Valiant in 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' in 1988, and 'Smee' in both Hook (1991) and 'Neverland' (2011).

In the 1980s and 1990s he was also famous for his adverts for British Telecom, and his ‘It’s good to talk’ catchphrase became well-known.

Hoskins was the recipient of the prestigious Prix d'interprétation masculine as well as winning the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama for his role in Mona Lisa (and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor) and an International Emmy Award for best actor for his appearance on BBC One drama The Street in 2009.

In a statement obtained by SKY News, his wife Linda and children Alex, Sarah, Rosa and Jack said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Bob.