Who was John Woodvine? 'The Crown' actor dies at 96

Who was John Woodvine?
Who was John Woodvine? 'The Crown' actor dies at 96 (Image via Getty)

British actor John Woodvine has passed away at the age of 96, following a long and distinguished career in television, film, and theater. He died peacefully at home on October 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He had over six decades of work, with classics of the stage, popular television shows, and movies. Most fans recall his performance as the Archbishop of York in The Crown on Netflix.

John Woodvine's death marks the end of a period in both British theatre and screen acting. He was one of the few actors who began his career in live theater before successfully transitioning to film and television. Renowned for his versatility, he earned a reputation as one of the industry’s most reliable performers, effortlessly adapting to roles across various genres. Even in his later years, he continued to act with the same passion and dedication, earning widespread respect for his professionalism and unwavering commitment to his craft.

John Woodvine has collaborated with the biggest British enterprises in the theater, starring in many popular television dramas and well-known movie roles. The critics and the audience viewed him with admiration in the performing arts.


John Woodvine's early life and theatre career

John Woodvine was born on July 21, 1929, in South Shields, County Durham, England. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where he studied acting and graduated in 1953. He began his training in repertory theater and then later joined one of the best stage companies in Britain.

During his career, Woodvine has performed in over 70 stage productions. He acted in the Old Vic, the National Theatre, and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Banquo in Macbeth and roles in some Shakespearean plays were some of his most famous roles. His acting was characterized by clarity, timing, and discipline.

In 1987, he won the Olivier Award in Comedy Performance of the Year in the play The Henrys in the Old Vic. His ability to mix serious and light-hearted roles in his acting was appreciated by the award, which demonstrates his broad spectrum as an actor. He also worked on the stage even after joining film and television.

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Screen career and legacy

John Woodvine was highly regarded for his work on both film and television. He first rose to prominence in the early 1960s with his role as Detective Inspector Witty in the BBC detective drama Z Cars, which aired from 1963 to 1969. Over the years, he went on to appear in several other popular TV series, including New Scotland Yard and multiple episodes of Doctor Who.

One of his most memorable film roles was that of Dr. Hirsch in the 1981 horror classic An American Werewolf in London. The movie went on to become a cult favorite, and his performance earned him widespread international recognition. He later appeared in The Crown in 2016, in which he portrayed the Archbishop of York, introducing himself to a younger audience.

Woodvine was admired by his peers for his consistency and remarkable versatility as an actor. Known for his deep passion for the craft, he was often described as being truly devoted, if not addicted, to acting, maintaining a strong presence in both stage and screen performances throughout his career. The entertainment industry is grieving his death as the death of a dedicated and talented actor.

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Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal